Jenna: My kid loves visiting here, and we do so often. The changing exhibit is always interesting, and the permanent ones can be a lot of fun.
Special Exhibit
A Bend in the River
October 25, 2024, to March 29, 2025
Food, shade, power and life flourished along the Smoky Hill River’s roughly 575 miles. Communities thrived along its riverbanks by harnessing the power it provides and using it as a means of transportation and recreation. The Smoky was undoubtedly a catalyst for the economy. At one small bend of the Smoky, early settlers founded Salina and the community sprang forth.
Our story is unique and rich in history, yet it is also familiar throughout the world, as countless people can identify with the struggles and triumphs of living with water.
Sometimes friend sometimes foe, Salina has continually sought to balance how to thrive along this bend in the river. As a friend, it provides life-giving water to the town, and Salinans cherish this picturesque centerpiece of community life. But as a formidable foe, devastating floods took their toll. Over 60 years ago, attempts to harness its destructive nature brought great change to the Smoky in Salina. With the bend of the river cut off, the town was safe. However, the changes slowly dampened the city’s identity. The flowing water, swimming, fishing and boats running up and down the river through town became cherished memories of those old enough to have lived when the old river channel ran full. For the rest of us, the original river is hard to comprehend.
Join the Smoky Hill Museum as it explores our history with the Smoky. Learn how it sparked our economy, provided a gathering spot and sense of community, and pushed us to understand how to live in balance with the river. The exhibit opens October 25 and runs through March 19, 2025.
