Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas, 1915-Present Ms. Collection
214 The initial donation of the Native Sons and Daughters of
Kansas collection was made by the organization in 1941.
Donations of manuscript material continue on a periodic basis.
Although the early history of the organization is sketchy, the
Native Sons were first organized in Topeka in 1902. The purpose
of the organization was vaguely defined as being to unite all
native Kansans in “one harmonious body” to labor for the best
interests of the state. This early manifestation of the
organization was not active and dissolved shortly after its
founding. In 1915 the Native Daughters of Kansas was founded by
Mrs. Dewitte C. Nellis of Topeka. Essentially a patriotic
organization, its purpose was to preserve Kansas history, show
loyalty to Kansas traditions, honor pioneer ancestors, and
instill ideals of patriotism in youth. In 1918 the Native Sons
became active, and in 1919 the two groups began holding joint
meetings. Eventually they merged to form th