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Volga-German Heritage


category : Ethnic Heritage
Volga-German Heritage Volga German settlers began arriving in Ellis County in the mid-1870's. These frontier settlers were so named because prior to coming to the United States they had settled along the Volga River in Russia. Coming from a harsh climate, the Volga Germans were able to adapt and thrive in their new home. They learned to use what nature provided. A good example of this is their use of limestone in the absence of lumber. This can still be seen today in their homes, churches and fence posts. Being a very religious people, they expressed creativity in the construction of beautiful churches, many of which are still in use in the communities surrounding Hays. The most famous of the churches is the magnificent St. Fidelis Church, more commonly referred to as "the Cathedral of the Plains", which stands today as a monument to the Volga German immigrants and their enduring lifestyle. Starting in the month of February and continuing through November there is a German celebration nearly every month, with either a polkafest, Oktoberfest or church fundraiser with tasty German food and a polka mass. Although many of the German celebrations highlight the local Volga German food, polka music, beer and family gathering time, each event emphasizes their own traditions and unique activities. For a complete listing of the German celebrations in Ellis County go to www.haysusa.net


Hours: Varies
Address: 2700 Vine-Hays, KS 67601
Phone: 785-628-8202
Our Email: rschuckman@haysusa.com
Our Website:www.germancapitalofkansas.com

Come visit us in Hays, Kansas

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Walker Air Base Display

The model of the Walker Army Airfield that is on display at Forsyth Library on the campus of Fort Hays State University was completed in October 2000 by Fort Hays State University student Steve Arthur. The Walker Army Airfield was located in Ellis County, about 2 and 1/2

Hays, KS Historic Airfields

Blue Sky Minature Horse Farm

Donna and Marion Schmidt have operated their working horse farm for over 10 years and enjoy visiting with groups about this special breed of horses. Not to be confused with Shetland ponies, miniature horses are much like regular horses, except they are only 26-33"

Hays, KS Education Centers

Hays Public Library

A nationally-recognized leader for outstanding per capita usage, renovated and expanded in 2003 to match the original 1911 Carnegie library. The 39,000

Hays, KS Libraries

Farmers Market and Fresh Produce Market

Hays Farmers Market Parking Lot - 27th & Vine Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings June through October Hours: Sat 8-noon, Wed 5-8 pm Admission: Free Local farmers and gardeners sell a variety of fresh vegetables, fruit, farm products and baked goods Fresh Produce Market 2900

Hays, KS Farmers Markets

Historic Hays Driving Tour

A self-guided driving tour to over 30 locations throughout the community provides the opportunity to see some of the most important landmarks, historic sites and points of interest in Hays. The tour begins at 27th &

Hays, KS Historic Markers

Things to do Ethnic Heritage near Hays, KS