Kansas Territory
The Territory of Kansas was an organized incorporated territory of the United States that existed from May 30, 1854, until January 29, 1861, when the eastern portion of the territory was admitted to the Union as the state of Kansas.
First Territorial Capitol of Kansas
The capitol became a history museum in 1928. The structure was christened on August 1 with a speech by Union Pacific Solicitor General Nelson H. Loomis, who said those who congregated there that day, "...dedicate this restored captitol building as a memorial to the brave and patriotic men and women [who laid the foundations of the state and built its railroads] who toiled and suffered that their children might enjoy the wholesome pleasures and delights which the wise maker of the Universe intended for those who should dwell in this beautiful and radiant land which we call Kansas." The First Territorial Capitol State Historic Site features exhibits on Kansas Territory, rail and river travel in the region, and the history of Pawnee. Because the museum is on an active U.S. Army base, there are restrictions on visitors, including requirements for photo identification.