MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Museum is gearing up for its annual fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15, with a 1960s-themed celebration called “Peace, Love & Preservation.” The event, designed to raise essential operating funds, takes place at The Red Shed Music Venue, located at 6311 U.S. Highway 61, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Bronwyn Page, Director of Operations for the museum, says the gathering is not just a themed party—it's a lifeline.
“Funding has been reduced in recent years,” Page said in an interview on KWBW. “While we’re grateful for a recent increase from county commissioners, we’re still in need of support to keep the museum accessible to the community, preserve our growing collection, and make room for new donations.”
A Celebration of History and Preservation
The night includes a three-course seated dinner, silent auction, live entertainment, and a nod to the museum’s legacy as home to the historic KWBW radio station on its second floor. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere, complete with 1960s flair, a trivia session, and party favors.
The theme ties into two milestones: the museum’s 60th year since the Reno County Historical Society was formed, and the current featured exhibit on the Vietnam War, which was curated in partnership with Humanities Kansas and features stories from local veterans that were also archived at the Library of Congress.
Tickets are $85 per person, or $115 for those opting for unlimited drinks from the event’s bar. A limited-time “flash sale” will offer tickets at a discounted price of $55 through the museum’s Facebook page.
Why It Matters
The Reno County Museum holds a vast collection of Hutchinson and regional history, but with limited staff and storage space, Page says they're “running out of room.”
“For the first time, we’ve had to put a pause on accepting new donations because we're at capacity,” she said. "This event will help us work toward new solutions, while also keeping admission free for the public."
In addition to financial donations, Page said community members can help by volunteering their time—whether it’s to help with interior cleaning, exhibit setup, or outdoor landscaping. The museum also accepts donations of supplies through an online Amazon wishlist.
Get Involved
A wide variety of silent auction items will be up for bid during the event, including locally made artwork, gift certificates from Hutchinson businesses, and donations from the Cosmosphere and Fox Theatre.
Anyone interested in sponsoring an exhibit or learning more about support opportunities may visit the museum’s website at renocomuseum.com, or call 620-662-1184.
“We hope Hutchinson will show up in a big way,” Page said. “This is our history—let’s celebrate it together.”