In the fall of 1991, Jack & Ruth Tandy, Jim & Mardella Beech, LeRoy & Lavon Hoppas, Tom & Martha Burress and Marion Richey applied for a Historical Society Charter. The Society was registered and chartered with the State of Kansas. The group met at the Erie Public Library on Feb. 24, 1992 for the first meeting of the newly formed Mem-Erie Historical Society. Objectives of the organization is to preserve the history of Erie and surrounding communities, defining landmarks and establishing a Museum.

 

Officers were elected, Board of Directors appointed and by-laws reviewed and adopted. Fees for memberships are: $10 for single per year; $25 for family per year; $50 or more would be listed as a charter member, through Dec.

 

In 1993 We started our building fund to purchase the property at 225 South Main in March of 1994 and in August of 1994 we had we were the proud owners of the building paid in full. Mem-Erie Museum was made possible only by the many individuals (many who moved away many years ago, but made donations in memory of family members), businesses, clubs and churches, who gave so generously.

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Most of the items in the Museum are from Erie or Neosho County. Lots of school pictures and memorabilia. Beautiful antique clothing and furniture.

 

Everyone is invited to visit the Museum. There is no charge and we are handicap accessible.

 

If you have antiques that you treasure and would like them to be remembered by people that visit the Museum you can donate them to the Museum and everyone that visits can enjoy your things.

 

In the late 2000s Jim and Mardella Beach asked Claudia and Leon Obenhaus, Steve and Patsy Richey, Jeanette Harris to help with the museum. Before long Claudia Obenhaus was voted President, Patsy Richey Treasurer and Jeanette Harris Secretary. Kay Hill remained Vice President. William Cook was/is a Board member and later Tom McDaniel became a Board Member. Kay Hill resigned as Vice President and Anita McDaniel was elected Vice President. Clark Cleaver and Kindra Holland became Board Members.

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We have since moved to the new location at 403 S Main Street.

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Monthly Board Meetings are the 1st Thursday of Every Month at 5:00 P.M to about 6:00 P.M.  All are welcome who wish to attend the meetings.