@ Since 2020, the Watkins Museum has hosted a series of events to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1970s. Events related to the 1970s will be hosted throughout the city until 2029. These celebrations pay tribute to these important anniversaries, provide context by linking history to current community issues, and encourage people to share their memories of this significant decade in Lawrence’s history. Share your 1970s story! The 1970s were a pivotal moment for civil rights and cultural achievements in Lawrence. From integrating a swimming pool to establishing an arts center and community theater, the decade marked many significant milestones. Participate in the 1970s Project by sharing your story using the link below! Current Exhibits Days of Rage: The 1970 Curfew Embodying Connections: A New Look at the Gary Davis Photo Collection The Watkins at 50: Making History with Our Community 3/7/25 – 9/27/25 Jayhawks vs. Tigers 10/17/25 – 3/14/26 More Events 2026 February 7: Remembering Two Kansas Poets: William Stafford and Ronda Miller April 18: Lawrence Earth Day Fair 2025 February 1: Remembering Two Kansas Poets: William Stafford and Ronda Miller April 19: Lawrence Earth Day Fair April 26: The Watkins at 50! A Museum Birthday Party May 16: Steve Jansen Remembers: Stories of the Watkins Museum’s Early Days June 7-June 28: Lawrence 1970s Walking Tours June 27: The Write Bridge Journal: Ideals & Illusions October 25: Boo-Seum Bash November 20: Watkins 50th Anniversary Party: Keepin’ History Alive Since ’75 2024 January 20: Celebration of William Stafford: Living a Poetic Life February 9: Vietnam Veterans Exhibit Talk with Mike Delaney March 8: Vietnam Veterans Exhibit Talk with Pat Donahue April 20: Lawrence Earth Day Fair October 15: Liberating Lawrence: Gay Activism in the 1970s at KU October 19: The Merc Exhibit Reception 2023 February 24: Celebration of From Then to Now: A Student History of Haskell Indian Nations University April 22: Lawrence Earth Day Fair April 29: Swimming in Change: Desegregating Lawrence’s Public Swimming Pool June 30: Celebrate 70s Lawrence: Three Short Films from a Groovy Time August 24: Postwar Journeys: Discussing the Vietnam War’s Aftermath. 2022 August 26: The Willow in Lawrence: A 45-Year History September 11: Public Dedication of Desegregated Swimming Pool Marker September 23: The February Sisters: Remembering & Moving Forward December: Opening of From Then to Now: A Student History of Haskell Indian Nations University 2021 October 18-22: 51 Years OUT! Celebrating Gay and Lesbian History at KU and Lawrence 2020 January 18: Celebration of William Stafford: Living a Poetic Life January 31: To Tell Our Stories: The Clinton Lake Communities February 9: Remembering Rick “Tiger” Dowdell February 10: Black History Matters Doc & Discuss February 28: Opening Doors: Accessibility in Lawrence April 22: Earth Day 50th Anniversary Virtual Series Add to cale...
