constitution hall

I had a wonderful visit to Lecompton. The Constitutional Hall where the Constitution of the Kansas Territory was created, is a two story building, all original, floors, and siding alike. It covers the meandering of politicians and the Bleeding Kansas period. But the best part was the Docent: intelligent, obviously educated and passionate about history, he spent a great deal of time on our tour and was willing to entertain questions at all levels: from kids to grown ups. Terrific. Admission $3/person.

Location: 318 Elmore StreetAdmission: $3 or $5Two story white wooded building that still has the original cottonwood floors on the first floor. It was erected in 1856. At one time there were 10 territorial capitols in Kansas, but LeCompton is considered the official one.In 1857 thousands of settlers filed claims on the first floor which was the US Land Office. On the second floor can be seen a copy of the original constitution which made Kansas a state. In voting for the constitution, there were both pro-slavery and anti-slavery. People from Missouri came across trying to change the ballot by placing secret ballots in a brown candle holder box. The votes were found and the votes were not counted. This box can still be seen.These arguments between pro-slavery and anti-slavery contributed to the start of the Civil WarPhotos of the six territorial governors and 4 acting governors can also be seen on the second floor. The second floor is also famous for the most infamous floor brawl in the history of the US House of Representatives on Feb 6, 1858. This event was published in one of New York's newspapers on Feb 20, 1858. This can also be seen at Constitution Hall.

Well, how to be fair about this? 1st this is a significant historical site for those who want a greater understanding of the origins of the Civil War other than just Fort Sumter 2-the staff there is extremely friendly even by Midwestern standards! 3-I would suggest that if you are making this a specific destination that you try to pick one of the days where they do some of their living history reenactments. The building is small and should only take about 30 minutes max to go through. Plenty of parking along the front of the building. A small town and I cannot think of any restaurants in the vicinity. Stop here on your way to Lawrence to see more about Bleeding Kansas and in Lawrence to find a good meal. No immediate fee, but there is a recommended three dollar donation. Small gift shop inside.