Modern Chautauqua Movement in Kansas and Nebraska

The Kansas Humanities Council and Nebraska Humanities Council rekindled their states’ Chautauqua traditions in 1984 with modern Chautauquas that use public forum and discussion to focus on a particular historical era.  Rather than use contemporary speakers, the modern-day Chautauqua features history professionals portraying famous figures from the past. In the spirit of the original traveling Chautauquas, the Kansas and Nebraska Humanities Councils have brought their programs to rural and remote communities that may not have direct access to humanities or cultural centers.

Chautauqua in Kansas and Nebraska has become an important tradition and a signature program for both councils. Chautauqua provides an introduction to public humanities programs for rural audiences, creates lasting partnerships between the state councils and the towns that host events, and fosters long-term interest in the humanities among their citizens.

For a list of past Chautauqua themes presented by the Kansas Humanities Council and the Nebraska Humanities Council, click here.