06/04/2026
RCHS sees a record-breaking Grow Green Day
During the Greater Manhattan Community
Foundation’s Grow Green day on April 22, the Riley
County Historical Society secured $11,025 from a
record-breaking 70 donors, supporting the society’s
ongoing work to preserve some of Riley County’s
most significant historic properties.
Matching funds from the community foundation
are expected to grow the total raised to just over
$16,500.
“We’re beyond grateful for the support and
confidence the community has in the Riley County
Historical Society in carrying out our mission,” said
Board President Mary Mertz. “The success of this
year’s Grow Green campaign ensures that Riley
County’s historic treasures will continue to educate
and inspire the public for generations to come.”
Priority sites for the upcoming year include
the Wolf House Historic District — comprising the
Wolf House, Mansfield House, Moses House, and
Wolf Photography Studio — as well as the Hartford
House, the Rocky Ford School House, and the
Pioneer Log Cabin.
All of these structures — representing the
growth of Riley County from its earliest settlements
through the modern era — are listed on the State
and National Registers of Historic Places.
These preservation efforts directly support
the Society’s educational mission. In 2025, more
than 1,000 visitors, including schoolchildren and
researchers, engaged with these sites to experience
local history firsthand.
The 2026 funding will allow RCHS to broaden
its interpretation of themes like technology and
community life while ensuring these buildings
remain safe and accessible.
by: Rafael Garcia
