KAPHP juried members offering programs:
Alive with History is the product of Doug McGovern. He is a photographer, teacher, engineer and historical performer. Doug is active in historical activities including working with local preservation efforts, membership in the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, reenacting with the 8th Kansas Volunteer Infantry (as a civilian photographer), and membership in a Victorian Dance performance group.
Janet C. Armstead holds a bachelor's and a master's degree in Music Education from Kansas State University. Janet brings you the story of Mary Ann McCutchan who moved to Kansas Territory in 1859 with her husband and six children. They built their cabin in Kanwaka, a community west of the new town of Lawrence. Janet is a retired teacher with extensive experience in public and private education and is active in the Santa Fe Trail Association, the Fort Larned Old Guard, and the Zendale Community Church. She and her husband Dean reside in Wamego.
Crooked Creek Regulators - Brought to you by Marc Ferguson, the story of Buffalo Hunter Billy Dixon and Doc Holiday.
Debbie Divine combines two of her loves, quilting and research to bring you Rose Kretsinger (quilter, artist, author), First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and Marie Webster (early 20th century quilter).
Lynsay Flory - Lynsay Fory, Overbrook, Kansas, portrays Clara Gowing. Lynsay is the Programming Director of the Osage County Historical Society. She holds a Master's degree in history from Wichita State University and is a Doctoral Candidate at North Dakota State University. In all her pursuits, Lynsay wonders, "What would it be like...?
Robin Hanson - Dr. Robin Hanson, Carbondale, Ks portrays Mildred "Mickey" Axton. Robin holds a Ph.D. in American Studies and a Master's in Anthropology and human relations. She teaches at Washburn University in Topeka and St. Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri.
Bonnie Johnson - Brings you the stories of Abigail Adams, Catherine The Great, Mamie Eisenhower, Dolley Madison, Suzanna (Dora) Salter, Louise Thaden, and Katharine Wright.
Riches and Rags, Entrepreneur Stories - Historical performer Kitty Hamilton presents her characters in the Chautauqua style. Like Kittie Hays and the Kanza people, Kitty Frank acknowledges the persistent extremes of the Flint Hills--the dramatic beauty of her home contrasting with the challenges that geography and climate present for those trying to making a living here. With an economics and entrepreneurial background, her stories could be described as "following the money; following the twists and turns of our history knowing humans will always choose the option with the largest benefit for the lowest perceived cost. Kitty welcomes the opportunity to shape a performance for your particular audience.
Ride into History - Ride into History calls what she does “sneaky history.” Others have called her performances “entertaining and intelligent” and“the most popular part of the event,” and said, “I don’t remember when I’ve had so much fun—and I’ve learned, too!” Ride has delighted audiences of all ages, in settings as varied as conferences and schools. Dr. Ann Birney has aPhD degree and has been on humanities council rosters in three states. As entertainment, Ride into History has been on the Kansas Arts Commissions Touring Program and Mid-American Arts Alliance Heartland Arts rosters.
SME - Portals of Time - The dynamic team of Belinda and Mike Adams. Gymnasium, stage, or outdoor setting—educational and entertaining assemblies and programs for all occasions and all ages—programs are designed to fit your site.
Anna Smith is an 21 year Army veteran and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science History from Emporia State University, Emporia, KS. Smith belongs to the Kansas Alliance of Professional Historical Performers, Topeka Kansas Daughters of American Revolution Chapter, VFW Auxiliary . Smith is an “Honorary” member of the Konza Prairie Sons of the American Revolution in Manhattan, Kansas.
Sod-Bustin' Kansas History - Agricultural historian Nolan Sump carries his love for the history of farming onto the stage with stories told by three first-person personae. Humor balances hardship in these tales based on real stories.
KAPHP Alumni
KAPHP Alumni are members of the organization that maintain membership but no longer perform regularly. They underwent the same jurying process to become members as did all current active members, and they adhere to the same standards as regular members. Some still perform on occasion and can be contacted to determine interest and availability. All are willing to assist new and present performers with ideas, coaching, and research suggestions to help improve a presentation.
Gary Krehbiel (Clyde Cessna) - Gary's presentations were based on discussions with Cessna's acquaintances, family members, a multitude of books, immersion in newspapers, and other primary sources. Gary will be able to help with research and accurately present the right look. Gary can be reached through email at glpmkrehbiel@dishmail.net
LvngHstry - George & Diane Bernheimer - Presenting characters from the pre-Kansas Territorial era (before 1854), Kansas Territorial era (1854-1861), and the Civil War period (1861-1865). For information about people that they bring from the past into the present, please visit their website at LvngHstry.org or LvngHstry.com
Yvonne Larson (Nans Covered Wagon) - Yvonne has researched various sources to form an extensive knowledge of clothing history from the late 1700's to the 1920's. She would like to share that knowledge by helping new performers and others who want to "look the part" with accurate clothing to present the right look. Yvonne can be reached through email at nanscoveredwagon@yahoo.com
Norm Joy (Njoy History) - Norman is a native Kansan who lives in Hutchison. He is a retired teacher and soldier, having served in the U.S. Army for 27 years. He retired as a Sergeant Major. He holds a Masters Degree from Oklahoma State University. Norman has delighted his audiences with portrayals of Gen. Robert E. Lee and trade store owner Jo Ferris. Norm would be delighted to share his knowledge with you. Norm can be reached through email at rrjoy@cox.net
In Memoriam
Joyce Mae Thierer
September 3, 1949 - April 10, 2023
Joyce, a co-founder of Ride Into History and the KAPHP, brought her passion for history and life to many through her performances and as a teacher at Emporia State University. We as KAPHP members looked to her as a valued mentor and friend. We will miss her greatly.
Please take a moment to see how she made a difference in many lives.
https://www.emporiagazette.com/gaz/article_735d4d04-dfaa-11ed-8d65-17e3d74c8373.html
Pauline Eads Sharp is a citizen of Kaw Nation and current Chair of the Kanza Heritage Society. She has researched and studied the history and culture of the Kanza People, from whom the State of Kansas took its name. Pauline told the story of the Kanza (Kaw) people through the character of her grandmother, Lucy Tayiah Eads, first woman chief of the Kaw. She can be reached through her email at psharp50@gmail.com.
