Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the northeast corner of 30th Avenue and Apple Lane.
Today's column is the second of a two-part series on the Rivers Banks Orchard.
After the Dillon companies purchased what was left of the original Rivers Banks Orchard in 1941, they split the property in two, and the farthest east section was eventually converted into a private recreation area for the store's employees.
It was commonly called Dillon's Lake. The first photo shows the lake cabin shortly after opening.
In 1970, Dillons gave the land to the city of Hutchinson to use as a public recreation area and was named Dillon Park. The second photo shows that era lake and cabin.
In 1974, it was expanded to become the "Dillon Outdoor Education Center."
In 1993, the funds were raised to build a new visitors center to what became known as the Dillon Nature Center. The third photo shows that building at the opening in 1994.
In 2024, during an extremely dry year, the upper pond was drained and dredged four feet down, and 24 tons of sludge were removed. The fourth photo shows that in progress.
The fifth photo shows the upper pond today, back to normal and fishing going on.
The sixth photo shows the visitors center today, still going strong at 3002 E. 30th, but now being managed by the Hutch Rec Commission.
To purchase a photo print, contact: sharmon5@cox.net.
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
Anchor Inn and Anchor Away