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Severe weather is a distinct part of Kansas culture, thanks to both historical events like the Dust Bowl and fictional depictions like the tornado in "The Wizard of Oz." 2026 is not only the year marking the American semiquincentennial, but a notable anniversary year for two major natural disasters that left their mark on Lawrence.115 years ago, an April tornado ripped through downtown Lawrence, killing two Lawrencians and leading to hundreds of thousands of dollars of property damage. In 1951, three-quarters of a century ago, a generational flood throughout the Kansas River plain devastated the entire region. The Watkins photography collection showcases the destruction, tragedy, and aftermath of both disasters.
Special thanks to the National Weather Service branch office in Topeka and Douglas County Emergency Management for their assistance with this exhibition.
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Event Venue
Watkins Museum of History, 1047 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS 66044-2961, United States
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