Gordon Parks Museum — Attraction in Fort Scott

I visit this museum a few times a year and find it amazing that such a jewel of history, education, and culture in our community is tucked away inconspicuously in the Ellis Fine Arts Center, across from the theater. I first entered the museum while I was a new FSCC student in 2013. I was early for English class one day and just decided to stop by and check it out. The relatively small museum is loaded with photos, exhibits, clothing, etc. from Gordon Parks' life, very nicely done for our little town. The curator, Jill, is friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, and happy to answer any questions.

My kids' favorite feature is the creative area for children. Stocked with a variety of paper and art supplies, it is perfect for preschool to elementary-aged kids and will keep them busy while adults examine the exhibits and learn about the impressive life and career of Gordon Parks.

The museum sponsors a number of special events every year, ranging from movie nights to photo contests to spoken poetry nights. It is part of what makes our community so supportive of the Arts.

Highly...

This is a small but very comprehensive museum about the life and works of Gordon Parks. As a prominent black photojournalist, writer and film maker he played an instrumental role in civil rights movement. This museum is a must visit for anyone interested the photography, the civil rights movement or the history of Kansas. It is located inside the Fort Scott Community College. When I arrived at the museum I was greeted warmly by the museum director who shared information about the museum and upcoming events. He was also more than happy to answer any questions I had and share about the history of the museum and Gordon Park's works. There is no charge to visit, but donations are welcomed. They also have a small gift shop that sells Gordon Park's books and...

This museum is a tribute to one of the great Renaissance men or the 20th Century. I did learn a few things about Gordon Parks which I did not know before. But the museum is quite small. I would have liked for more of Parks' photography to have been on display.

Still for the serious photographer, it is well worth the pilgrimage. It is hard to find though. It is located inside one of the buildings of the local community college with no sign showing the location. But just ask someone for directions. Facility and students certainly know where...