Schedule a Local History research appointment below or call (785) 580-4510 to make the appointment.
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 Classes
We have classes every month to help novices & experienced researchers learn techniques to research their genealogy.
Writing your family’s story
You can tell the story of your family’s culture, neighborhoods & experiences to add to our collective history.
Railroad history: Choose your own adventure
Adrienne offers suggestions for uncovering interesting facts about Topeka’s railroad history.
Explore Native American Heritage
Explore the history and traditions of indigenous people with memorable programs & powerful reads.