The Medicine Lodge Stockade Museum gives you a taste of what life was like in a stockade in the 1870s. The Stockade Museum is actually a replica of an actual stockade. There are markers at the approximate locations of each of the four corners here in Medicine Lodge. Each marker has different information about the stockade.
In 1874, during a period of Native American raids in western and southern Kansas, a stockade was built by militia and citizens of Medicine Lodge. The 9’ walls were made of native cedar and cottonwood logs that were placed side by side and set on end in the ground.
Journey with us to a time in our country’s past where life was hard, but hope for a better future was strong. The promise of new life in the west called many families to leave everything familiar behind. Pioneers were seeking a new land of opportunity where one could homestead and raise a family. Stockades became the gathering place of protection for these pioneers during troubled times.
Within the stockade walls communities were built and friendships were forged as everyone worked together daily to provide adequate food and clothing for each family. At the close of the day families gathered together to spend time singing hymns and thanking the Lord for another day of safety. Occasionally, special events were celebrated with fiddle music and dancing.
Admission:
- Adults 15-54–$5
- Seniors 55 and older–$4
- Children 7-14–$3
- Young children under 7–Free
- Friends of the Museum family pass–$30
Your ticket also admits you to the Carry Nation Home next door.
