Since being the longtime home of Emporia Gazette publisher William Allen White and his family, Red Rocks has now been open to the public as a state historic site for 20 years.
That milestone anniversary was celebrated Saturday with activities both on site and across town, including an optional driving tour set up in part by Emporia State student Spencer Bonebrake.
Student Grant Logsdon of Olathe says he enjoyed being part of the process, although he admits it was nerve-wracking at first.
ESU Social Sciences Teacher Educator professor Darla Mallein says she is proud of the facility, the event and her involvement in the site.
Activities included information on site, as well as tours, door prizes and refreshments.
The event comes with some notable renovations ahead. Longtime spokesman Roger Heineken says there are plans to make the Mother’s House more accessible to tours.
Since its original use by the White family, Red Rocks has kept the history of the last 125 years alive through its Sundays at the Site information series, along with other events like Authors on the Porch, William Allen White Legacy Day and White Christmas at Red Rocks.
More information is available online at kansashistory.gov and through the Red Rocks State Historic Site Facebook page.
