Threshing Stone: Mennonite Artifact & Icon

On display October 6, 2012 – January 20, 2013

This special exhibition brings together the stories of threshing technology, Russian Mennonite immigration, and how the threshing stone became a symbol of Kansas wheat heritage and Mennonite tradition. Recognizing the history and symbolic meanings of the threshing stone is part of the 125th anniversary celebrations at Bethel College.

Public programs in the Sunday-Afternoon-at-the-Museum series Free to the public

October 21: “Leave No Stone Unturned” by Glen Ediger, guest curator (program given twice at 1:45 and 3:30)

November 25: “Of Fire and Steel: A Historical Sketch of 19th-Century Kansas Agriculture” by David D. Vail, Kansas State University

December 9: “Rural Kansas Women at Work (1850-1900)” by Isaias McCaffery, Independence Community College

January 6: “What’s a Thresher? Bethel College’s Symbolic History” by John Thiesen, Mennonite Library & Archives

Guided tours by appointment.

The exhibition and programs are supported by:
Kauffman Museum Association
Bethel College
Kansas Humanities Council- a nonprofit cultural organization promoting understanding of the history, traditions, and ideas that shape our lives and build community