Strataca

06/02/2026

We are in search of wood pallets for our maintenance team. If you would like to donate please message us. Thank you !

05/28/2026

Throwback Thursday - Salt Mine School Tours

Strataca is now open for summer hours, bringing an end to the school field trip season. The museum proudly continues a school tour tradition stretching back to when the salt mine opened in the 1920s.

The Carey Salt Company was always proud of its operations, showcasing the mining process through guided underground tours for nearly 40 years. Tours of the active mine stopped in 1961 due to productivity concerns.

Members of the public could ride the salt skip with the miners 650 feet beneath Hutchinson. Once underground, tourists would climb aboard a mantrip car and ride out to the working face. From there, a miner demonstrated how various machinery worked.

Because they had a captive audience for advertising, the guides ensured visitors saw displays of Carey Salt products before going back topside.

Some of these tour groups were school field trips. Occasionally, a Strataca visitor will tell a staff member they remember going on these school tours, sometimes over 80 years ago!

Just like today, students were not always well-behaved on their tours.

In 1932, a group from the Salt City Business College “were of a very unruly nature,” according to Mine Superintendent S. B. Horrell in a letter to the school.

Guides reported that students “(paid) no attention to what was said, either educational or along the lines of a safety nature” and “considered the visit more or less of a lark.”

Among the shocking concerns, students ignored “the guides’ warning regarding the danger of high-tension electrical lines.”

College President J. D. Conard wrote back the next day to let Horrell know he “made considerable inquiry regarding (the) students’ trip” and looked forward to speaking with him in the future.

Did you or someone you know take a tour of the Carey Salt Mine back in the day? We would love to hear your stories in the comments of this post or email [email protected].

Photos: Letter from Horrell to the College, dated March 22, 1932 and return letter from Conard, March 23, 1932.

05/25/2026

Today we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 🇺🇸
From all of us at Strataca, thank you for your service and sacrifice. Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day.

Please note that Strataca will be closed today in observance of the holiday. We look forward to welcoming you back underground tomorrow!

05/22/2026

Looking for weekend plans?
Take an unforgettable adventure 650 feet underground at Strataca. ⛏️✨

Who are you bringing with you? 👇

05/21/2026

Strataca will be closed for general public tours on May 21st as we host GeoWoodstock underground! 🤩
We’ll reopen for regular tours the following day! Thank you for understanding, and we can’t wait to welcome all of the geocachers heading 650 feet underground for an unforgettable adventure! ⛏️🧂

05/19/2026

If you needed an excuse to come see us here it is.

05/13/2026

Congrats to our giveaway winner! 🎉👏
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who entered, liked, shared, and tagged their friends. We loved seeing all the excitement!

And the winner of the 4 Salt Blast Passes is… 🥁
✨ Rhonda Lane ✨

Please send us a message to claim your prize!
Stay tuned — more giveaways and underground adventures are coming soon 👀🧂

05/13/2026

We're so excited to be part of this event! Badge holders will be able to get in free on Thursday, then Wednesday through Sunday, you will be able to come in at the discounted Reno County rate with your badge. Excited to see y'all!

🌍📍 Hutchinson is proud to welcome GeoWoodstock XXII, the world’s largest annual geocaching event, May 20–24!

Now in its 22nd year, this internationally recognized gathering will bring thousands of geocachers to Kansas for the very first time.

Throughout the week, activities and geocaching adventures will take place across Hutchinson and Reno County. The main event on Saturday, May 23 will feature presentations, workshops, vendors, and family-friendly activities at the fairgrounds.

Whether you're experienced or just learning about geocaching, it’s a unique opportunity to see this global community in action right here in Hutchinson.

Learn more: https://geowoodstockxxii.com/

05/06/2026

Did someone say GIVEAWAY?! 🤩🧂

Enter to WIN 4 Salt Blast Passes to explore 650 feet underground at Strataca!

Here’s how to enter 👇
✅ Follow our page
📣 Share this post
👯‍♀️ Tag 3 friends in the comments

📅 Winner announced May 13th!

Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the most unique adventures in Kansas!

05/05/2026

It only takes one teacher to change everything 💛

We’re celebrating the ones who inspire, encourage, and make learning fun every day.

👇 TAG a teacher who made a difference in your life
Let’s fill the comments with appreciation!