“Historic Church and Art Tour”

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. An Art Outpost in Palco

Most people don’t associate art with western Kansas, but one visit to Omer Knoll’s Studio in Palco will show you that art is all around. Omer has completed sculptures that have been on display at museums such as the Dane G. Hansen Museum in Logan. His replica of the “Fish Within a Fish” is just one of a number of interesting art works.

10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. A Sentinel on the Plains: St. Joseph’s Church in Damar

The Rooks County Church Tour begins with a look at the beautiful St. Joseph’s Church in Damar. The over 100 year old church is visible for many miles around the area and has drawn countless visitors off the highway to view its magnificent interior. There is no charge for the tour; however, donations are accepted if you wish to take a color brochure.

11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. “French Quarters” Visitors Center

The new Damar Historical Community Foundation is headquartered in the “French Quarter” Visitor’s Center on Main Street.  Art and pictures inside display the history of this French-Canadian community. 

11:50 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Lunch Take a look at all of the restaurants by clicking here.

1:15 p.m. – 1:55 p.m.   Stitch and Chatter & murals in Stockton

Stitch and Chatter is a quilt shop in Stockton, but the artistry involved in this craft makes it worth the stop.  The business is located on Main Street, which is also the location for several artistic murals, including Printer’s Park, located just a block east, the Stockton City mural at the SE corner of U.S. 183 and U.S. 24, and the new Barn Quilt Wall located in the Lower Park on the west side of Stockton on U.S. 24 highway.

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Art as a Healing Force

Travel to Plainville to tour all of the art on display in Rooks County Health Center.   Not your typical hospital, RCHC features beautiful pictures throughout the facility, all photos taken in Rooks County by photographer Louis Pfortmiller.  NOTE – Access is limited at this time due to COVID-19.

Optional Visits Include:

Museum – Rooks County Museum in Stockton

 

This is a suggested one-day tour for groups and can be adjusted to your schedule. For more information on all tours, please contact the Economic Dev. Office at 785-425-6881.