TOPEKA – Humanities Kansas recently awarded $15,000 to the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation in Manhattan to support “Greenwood County: Ranchers of the Tallgrass Prairie,” a documentary film that explores the evolution of ranching in the Flint Hills, from the early days when cattle were first brought onto the prairie to the current challenges of ranching today. Dave Kendall serves as the project director.
Known to many as host of the “Sunflower Journeys” series on Kansas public television, Kendall now produces documentaries as Prairie Hollow Productions. This is the fifth production for which the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation has served as sponsoring organization, beginning in 2016 with a documentary tracing the history of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Rex Buchanan, director emeritus of the Kansas Geological Survey, will be assisting with this production.
The documentary will feature some of the ranching families associated with the Greenwood County Cattlemen’s Association, which marks its 100th anniversary in 2025. “We believe this project will offer viewers a deeper understanding of ranch life, providing insight into the challenges and rewards that come with it,” said Jared Seeley, current president of the association. “By sharing these stories, the documentary will help preserve the legacy of our way of life and inspire a deeper appreciation for the contributions of rural communities like ours.”
“The humanities connect people to place over time and across generations, “shared Julie Mulvihill, Humanities Kansas Executive Director. “This film will create a space for important conversations that will help us see more clearly our past and plan for our future.” The film is expected to be completed
in fall 2025, with a preview slated to be shared at next year’s Greenwood County Cattlemen’s Day Banquet.
About Humanities Kansas Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas. Since 1972, HK’s programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and invite new insights. Together with statewide partners and supporters, HK encourages Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures and cultures to create connections with one another and strengthen Kansas communities and our democracy.
For more information visit humanitieskansas. org.
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