Civil War Research Updates by Author Tom Rafiner
and Archaeologist Dr. Ann Raab
On Saturday, June 22nd
at 10am, the Museum will present another program that is open and free to the
public. Civil War researcher and author,
Tom Rafiner along with archaeologist, Dr. Ann Raab, will each discuss their
most recent findings. Tom Rafiner’s
research is now solely focused on the families of Bates County who endured
Order No. 11 in 1863. Anyone with
stories of their families here in Bates County during that time is encouraged
to bring their information for Tom to add to his research. Often, one small piece of information or
family lore is enough to help a researcher ‘connect the dots’.
Tom Rafiner’s book, “Cinders
and Silence,” is newly released and he plans to have copies available for
purchase. He also wrote, “Caught Between
Three Fires,” which tells the story of Order No. 11 in Cass County. Tom’s sole focus now is Bates County. His research will be the most thorough
compilation of data about the 1863 exodus that has ever been undertaken. Bates County is indebted to Tom for this
historic body of work. This is an
excellent opportunity for you to connect with the author directly and to make
certain that the stories of your ancestors are remembered and included.
Dr. Ann Raab’s archaeological
research in Bates County has received national attention through magazines,
publications and speaking engagements.
She has brought the stories of Order No. 11 to the attention of many in
the field of academics and in the process of spending a great deal of time
here, Ann has become a very special friend to the Museum. We again welcome Ann and look forward to her
descriptions of artifacts from the John Green Family dig site that are
currently housed at the Bates County Museum, on loan from the University of
Kansas.
The Museum will have all the
Civil War and pre-Civil War record books in our collection on display. Folks are encouraged to bring the names of
your ancestors and let us see what information we may be able to find. Among the books are: 1842 Chancery Records, 1854 Swampland Sales,
1857 Bates Co. Court, 1863 Tax Book, 1850 Census, 1860 listing of ‘men’ (ages
10 years and older!) eligible to serve in the military, etc.
The program presentations
will begin at 10:00 am and will be followed with a free will offering
luncheon. For further information call
660-679-0134.
