On April 26-28, 2024, Old Iron Days are back after a 15-year break! As part of the 150th Anniversary of Rush County, Kansas, the people of Otis have resurrected Old Iron Days for a one-time encore celebration in downtown Otis. Displays include antique vehicles, a parade, historical displays, food, games for the kids, and much more. History comes alive in Otis for the weekend.
MoreOn May 2-5, 2024, La Crosse hosts the 58th Annual Barbed Wire Festival.
The Barbed Wire Festival is a family-oriented community celebration with events for the entire family. You don't need to be a barbed wire collector to participate. EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
On Saturday, the World Champion Barbed Wire Splicing Contest™ will give contestants the opportunity to prove who can create the strongest and fastest fence splice.
On Sunday, June 16, 2024, history comes alive in Bison, Kansas.
Enjoy open houses at the historic Lone Star School and Bison Community Museum. The Lone Star School, the oldest commercial building in Rush County, is a Post Rock limestone church and school constructed in 1878. See a Post Rock limestone cutting and dressing demonstration in the City Park. There will be something for everyone in historic Downtown Bison, Kansas.
On December 1, 2023, the Rush County Commissioners signed a proclamation officially lauching the celebration of Rush County's Sesquicentennial Celebration. The ceremony was 149 years to the day from the date the first appointed county commissioners signed the proclamation requesting official county status.
MoreThe Rush County Historical Society has undertaken the task of restoring the old baggage cart from the Timken Santa Fe Depot. Although altered from its original state, the cart dates back to the 1880s. It was used to transfer freight at the depot and in the immediate area. For years, the decaying cart has been parked on the platform of the Rush County Historical Museum. Society members plan to have the cart restored and in working order by the Rush Center St. Patrick's Parade in March.
MoreOn January 21, 2024, the Walnut Valley Senior Center in Rush Center hosted their Potato Bar from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. After the meal, visitors had the opportunity to browse historical displays from the communities of Rush County. The Rush Center Museum (located in the Senior Center) was also open. The Senior Center is located in the former Rush Center school building constructed in the 1950s. In addition to being the original county seat, Rush Center was the first school district organized in Rush County.
MoreOn February 10, 2024, the Rush County Memorial Hospital Foundation will be hosting its annual Denim & Diamonds fund raising dinner. Tickets are $100 each and include: music, games, open bar, live auction, and wine pull. Event begins at 6:00 pm, Dinner at 7:00 pm. There will be a special historical display featuring the “Doctors of Rush County”.
MoreOn March 16, 2024, enjoy this Irish celebration - Kansas Style
For over 30 years, the community of Rush Center has invited you to “Come be Irish for the day!” Join us and see why we say, “There are only two kinds of people in the world, the Irish and those who wish they were.”
Enjoy a variety of local food vendors, games, Bingo, and live entertainment in a festive family atmosphere. Be sure to try our homemade Irish Stew and all the fixins.