A special exhibit, Notorious, from the Smoky Hill Museum is now on display at the Hansen Museum, Logan, Kansas, and will remain on view through January 28, 2024. Kansas has a rich history of events and colorful characters that have shaped the state we call home. Amongst those people, one can find a wide variety of individuals whose actions range from noble to downright despicable. This exhibit narrows down that list to some of Kansas’ truly notorious individuals.
The meaning of notorious is complicated and can be just as grey as the people it describes. In some instances, it is used to pronounce someone negatively, while at other times, it has been used to define anyone who is widely known. In this exhibit, the visitor is left to decide. Visitors will learn about people like John Brown, Dr. Brinkley, Bonny and Clyde, Buffalo Bill, and the Bloody Benders, to name a few. Certain individuals are undoubtedly infamous, and the meaning of notorious is clear-cut, while others leave you with a lasting debate.
Visitors will discover legend versus reality, how society’s views shift with time, and just how these notorious Kansans forever left their mark on the state. If that is not enough, visitors can count on some hands-on elements to get more into the story.