6/22/2024 | Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site | Lawson, MO
In 1982, Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Hall Marshall combined their respective passions for historic toys and fine-scale miniature art to form a museum near Kansas City's Country Club Plaza. The idea to do so came about after the two friends returned from a trip with new purchases for their ever-expanding collections. Francis' mother exclaimed that if they got one more thing, they'd have to start a museum! Forty years later, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures houses over 90,000 objects.
Each miniature is a testament to the artist's keen ability to achieve incredible detail at a seemingly impossible scale. A broad array of toys – the largest number on public display in the nation – serves as a catalyst for conversation reflecting on the connections between past and present.
In this presentation, Dr. Madeline Rislow will delve into what it means to "collect" in Missouri. Rislow's presentation will explore how we all share stories and create memories through the process of collecting. Her talk will include highlights from the Toys and Miniatures' collection.
This event is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. The presentation will take place inside the visitor center.
For more information, call the park office at 816-580-3387.
Presentation time: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic is located at:
Associated activities
- Interpretive Programs