Ford County Historical Society

08/10/2026

Take a step back in time with this photograph of Dodge City's old City Hall. Located on Second Avenue just south of the railroad tracks, this building played an important role in the city's early history.

08/07/2026

Ever wondered about the true story behind the iconic Texas Longhorn and the historic Western Cattle Trail? 🤠 Prime Western history isn't just sitting in textbook archives—it's alive, breathing, and roaming the range!
If you are passionate about frontier history, historic preservation, or authentic Western heritage, you’ll want to check out the Western Cattle Trail Association and dive into their featured spotlight on Dr. Frank Sharp.
🦬 Why History & Preservation Buffs Will Love This Story:
Uncovering the True Longhorn: As Lead Educator for the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd at Fort Griffin State Historic Site, Dr. Sharp works tirelessly to save genetically authentic, compact frontier Longhorns—animals whose roots trace all the way back to 1493—from near-extinction caused by modern breeding trends.
Living Frontier History: From trail drive economics to interactive 19th-century frontier music workshops and podcast discussions on the legendary trail drives from Texas to Dodge City, Dr. Sharp brings Western history alive in ways that educate and inspire.
Preserving American Heritage: Discover how dedicated historians, scholars, and cattlemen are working together to safeguard the authentic living symbols of the American West.
🌐 Explore & Connect
Ready to step back in time and support authentic history preservation?
👉 Discover Dr. Frank Sharp’s work on the Western Cattle Trail Association website:
https://www.westerncattletrailassoc.com/frank-sharp.html

In the wind-swept silence of Fort Griffin, where the Texas sun bakes the mesquite to a crisp ember, Dr. Frank Sharp stands guard over a living relic. To the casual observer, the cattle resting...

08/07/2026

Step back in time and explore this 1955 Western Electric 555 PBX 120-Line Switchboard! Once used at the historic Lora-Locke Hotel, this impressive piece of telecommunications history connected countless calls during an era before modern digital phone systems. Today, it's on display at the Legacy Center, where you can see this fascinating artifact up close and learn more about the technology that kept Dodge City connected. Come visit and experience a piece of local history!

08/05/2026

Looking for something new to explore? Visit our Clubs and Military Exhibit at the Legacy Center! From military memorabilia to artifacts representing local clubs and organizations, there's plenty of history waiting to be discovered.

08/04/2026

Last Friday, we had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Frank Sharp to the Legacy Center for a full day of entertainment and history. During the morning, Dr. Sharp delighted visitors with live music, creating a wonderful atmosphere for everyone who stopped by. In the afternoon, he gave an engaging presentation about the history of the Longhorn, sharing fascinating stories and insights that captivated the audience.

We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Sharp for sharing both his musical talents and his knowledge with our community. His dedication and enthusiasm made for a memorable day at the Legacy Center, and we truly appreciate the time he spent with us.

Please join us in thanking Dr. Frank Sharp for an outstanding day of music, history, and fellowship. We sincerely appreciate all that he did to make the event such a success!

Thank you, Dr. Frank Sharp!

08/03/2026

This 1908 photograph features the Santa Fe Freight Office Force, the employees responsible for managing the railroad's freight operations in Dodge City. Their hard work ensured that goods moved efficiently across the region, making the Santa Fe Railway a driving force behind the economic growth of southwest Kansas in the early 20th century.

07/31/2026

This week's featured artifact is the Dodge City Daily Globe Cash Register, dating back to around 1915! This beautifully preserved National Cash Register Model 583 once served the Dodge City Daily Globe and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of local business and commerce. Stop by the Legacy Center to see this remarkable piece of history up close!

07/30/2026

Tune In to the Sounds of the Old West! 🎻🎶

Get ready to step back in time for an unforgettable, high-energy morning! Join us at the Ford County Historical Society Museum for a wildly fun, family-friendly presentation on Music on the American Frontier.

Date: Friday, July 31st
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: 310 Gunsmoke St, Dodge City, KS 67801
Admission: 100% FREE! (Just bring your energy and your best singing voice!)

Why You Can’t Miss This:
For Folk Music Lovers: Hear the raw, authentic roots that laid the foundation for American music.
For Musicians: Discover the unique, highly portable instruments that traveled across the plains and shaped early history—and even try your hand at traditional rhythm-making!
For Kids & Families: It’s loud, it’s fun, it’s completely interactive, and it’s hands-down the coolest history lesson you’ll ever experience!
Don't miss out on the music, the history, and the fun. Mark your calendars, gather the family, and we'll see you on Gunsmoke Street!

Pictured are Jeremy James Long, singer-songwriter, and Dr. Frank Sharp, legendary historian.

🤠

07/30/2026

A big thank you to our two youngest volunteers who were busy helping set up for tomorrow's event!

Dont forget to come see Dr Frank Sharp at 10AM Friday July 30 as he discusses and performs traditional music from the 1800s! And stick around till 2PM to listen to Dr Sharp tell the TRUE story of the iconic Texas Longhorn!

07/29/2026

Have you seen our Newspaper Exhibit that is on display at the Legacy Center? Come visit the Legacy Center.