The Topeka Room has the resources for local historians and genealogists, to discover their family connections as well as the stories of Topeka and Shawnee County’s people, places and events.
A few of the more popular items our researchers use are: yearbooks from Topeka high schools and Washburn University; Topeka city directories from 1870 to the present; and an extensive Local History file collection which covers topics like Topeka and Shawnee County people, schools, businesses, churches, and neighborhoods.
Our computer lab provides access to a host of electronic databases as well as a copier, scanner, and a microfilm scanner. The best utilized resource is the specially trained staff to help you with your research needs.
The Local History Digital Collection consists of a wide array of digital reproductions of architectural drawings and blueprints, photographs, oral histories and select topics from our Vertical Files.
Recent Posts
Free genealogy conference & heritage celebration
Discover an opportunity to learn about the latest genealogy tools & family research tips.
Local cookbooks are a window to the past
Adrienne explores cookbooks from all sorts of Topeka-based churches, clubs and businesses 1908 – 1989.
Online newspapers – amazing genealogy resource
Newspaper research can bring your ancestors’ stories to life with facts & insight into to their lives.
Get to know inventors & innovators of Topeka’s past
From telephones to hygiene, Adrianne uncovers some of Topeka’s most historically innovative people.