Our Work: Past Achievements & Future Vision
Over the years, the Topeka High Historical Society has served as both caretaker and champion of Topeka High’s rich architectural and cultural legacy. From restoring iconic murals and chandeliers to erecting memorials and commemorating milestone anniversaries, our projects bring history to life across every corridor of the building. As we welcome progress, we also cast our vision forward—with plans to reopen the Tower, illuminate original fixtures, and even produce a documentary—ensuring that the heritage of Topeka High continues to inspire future generations.
What We’ve Accomplished
- Maintaining Topeka High museum collections in Heritage Room/ THSHS office
- Involvement in the replication of fallen auditorium chandelier
- Restoration of David Overmyer mural in THS library
- Successful fund raising campaign to restore and repair Mulvane Chimes
- Assisting with restoration of THS Classical Room
- Assisting in the celebration of Topeka High’s 125th Anniversary (1871-1996)
- Assisting in the restoration of stained glass windows
- Organizing the 75th Building Anniversary (2006)
- Mounting plaques throughout the school identifying rooms with 1931 pictures
- Commissioning and installing Hall of Fame and Heritage room doors
- Commissioning of Korean/Vietnam memorial
- Bronze plaque memorial commissioned for E.B. “Buck” Weaver and D.L. “Heavy” Erwin
- Co-Sponsoring the Rambler/Trojan Panel Discussion in October 2009
- Coordinating the replication and restoration of 24 Student Cafeteria Chandeliers in 2009
- Facilitating the installation & dedication of the Trojan Statue (2011)
- Coordinating the installation of the Woodward Library Flickinger Murals (2015)
- Fundraising and facilitating the remodeling of the THS Historical Society Paul Fink Museum and Office (2015)
- Refurbishing the chandeliers in the Social Room 103 and Laura Ewing Room 306 (2015)
- Replicating and refinishing the school crest (2017)
- Sponsoring the yearlong celebration of 150 years of THS (2021-22)
- Restoring the foyer walls to their original surface (2022)
- Cleaning the four fireplaces and exterior masonry repairs (2023)
Wish List of Future Projects
- Reopening access to the Tower (replacing stairs)
- Refinish exterior building light fixtures on the veranda
- Restore paneling in the Student Cafeteria
- Continue repair and restoration of original furniture ($650 per table)
- Produce a full-feature Topeka High Documentary using more 1930 Construction footage and recent video – $20,000 (See construction of THS DVD)
- Commission restoration of Teachers’ Cafeteria David Overmyer Mural
- Library ceiling stenciling restored
- Copy and display Williamson Architectural drawings of THS – $3,000 pivotal exhibitor wall display
- Addition of performing arts space, lecture space, classroom & costume storage
- Interior paint analysis of major rooms and entrance foyer – $10,000