WELCOME!
I have looked, also, upon the Constitution Hall, in Topeka, where the army of the United States, for the first time in our nation, dispersed a lawful and peaceable assembly of citizens, convened to protect their lives, their property, and their sacred honor.
U.S. Senator William H. Seward, October 3, 1860
Secretary of State under President Abraham Lincoln
A Story of Our Democracy
Constitution Hall in Topeka is a place like no other in the history of our great nation. Within its native stone walls unfolded events central to the story of American democracy. In 1855, Free State leaders sought to prevent the westward expansion of slavery by drafting the first of four Kansas Constitutions. On July 4, 1856, the U.S. Army forcibly dispersed the freely elected Topeka Legislature. And antislavery pioneers operated the western frontier’s Underground Railroad by way of the Lane Trail, assisting hundreds of people escaping slavery to freedom in the North.
This just scratches the surface. Check back for more!
Exploring Freedom
Constitution Hall enriches us in ways only authentic places do. Visitors will stand where Kansas was first envisioned as a free state—able to feel the weight of a struggle for freedom that transformed the nation. Renewing its original role on the frontier, the Hall will again serve for community gatherings. Immersive settings and dynamic programs will invite exploring Kansas as a free state and connect this legacy with today’s challenges. The restored Constitution Hall deepens our appreciation for the journey of American democracy.
Our $6.9 million project has restored the historic building and constructed an adjacent visitors center to tell these important stories about the fight against slavery and the journey to freedom. We’ve already raised $5.4 million, and need to raise $1.5 million more for exhibits, furnishings, equipment, and landscape development. Please consider helping reach this important goal by providing a tax-deductable donation.
We partner with the Topeka Community Foundation to manage our donations. You will be directed to their site for secure online payment.
A principal landmark of the American West.
The Independence Hall on the Prairie.
Contact:
HOURS
Friday: 12PM-4PM
First Friday Artwalk: 5PM-8PM
Saturday After Artwalk: 10AM-2PM
LOCATION
425 S Kansas Avenue
Topeka, KS 66603
P.O. Box 2551
Topeka, KS 66601
info@constitutionhalltopeka.org
785-969-4331
Friends of the Free State Capitol is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving Topeka’s Constitution Hall.