Rail lines greatly expanded across the U.S. between 1830 and 1910. This dramatically reduced travel time from months to days, opened the West for settlement, fueled the steel and mining industries, and created a single, massive national market. Railroads essentially built our nation, but it was Fred Harvey who “civilized” the West by providing high-quality, standardized food service and hospitality along the Santa Fe Railroad. Steele was the female executive who managed recruitment and hiring of the famous “Harvey Girls” waitresses, setting strict appearance and conduct standards to bring respectable young women to the West.

Join us at the Veterans Memorial Building to learn more about Fred Harvey and his impact on our nation. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and a meal will be served at 6:30. Webb’s Food Crew is cooking up a delicious meal of pulled pork, baked beans, New Orleans potatoes, cole slaw, and dinner rolls. Celebratory cupcakes in honor of our nation’s 250th birthday will be served for dessert.

Immediately following the meal and prior to the program, a short business meeting and election of board members will take place. Those seeking re-election include Marilyn Wolfe, Karen Burden, Brenda Rios, Robbie McCombs, and Bob Price. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor.

You do not have to be a Historical Society member to attend Annual Meeting, but reservations are required for this free event. Call the Museum at 620-355-7448 by 3 p.m. Thursday, April 9, to make yours! Donations will be accepted to help defray meal expenses, and lifetime memberships will be sold at the door for $20 per person. Only members may vote and make nominations.