Johnson County Archives Collection

The photograph collection from the Johnson County Archives consists largely of images from annual reports produced by County staff over the first half of the twentieth century, most notably the County Agricultural Agent and the Home Demonstration Agent. Numerous activities of those two offices are depicted, including programs with area farmers, homemakers, and 4-H clubs. Detailed information about and data from the programs can be found in the actual reports, which are available at the Archives.

The Johnson County Archives collects photographs that are integral to any Johnson County, Kansas Government department, office, or agencies official records. There are processing procedures in place for handling these types of items such as those shown in the Johnson County Archives photograph collection.

However, The Johnson County Archives does not actively collect photographs from members of the public. Those with photographs are urged to contact the Johnson County Museum at www.jocomuseum.org."

Johnson County Museum Collections

The photograph collection from the Johnson County Museum consists of a wide range of images dating from the late 19th century to the current day. A major focus of the collection centers on individuals and groups of people in domestic, recreational, scholarly, and business settings. The built environment features largely in the collection, as do images of modes of transportation.

The Johnson County Museum collection numbers over 24,000 photographs. The museum collects images that have a direct connection to Johnson County history – pictures depicting residents of the county, events and happenings which occurred in the county, and objects that were manufactured or used in the county or have a direct connection with historical events that occurred here. Besides photographs, the museum accepts objects and written or printed materials, including diaries, letters, manuscripts, pamphlets and programs. Contact Museum staff at www.jocomuseum.org for more information about enhancing the collection.

Olathe Public Library Collection

The photograph collection from the Olathe Public Library consists largely of images from the Olathe Mirror, published from 1861 to 1959. The photographs date from the mid-twentieth century and depict scenes of daily life, including weddings, award ceremonies, and include a number of studio portraits of individuals. The Olathe Naval Air Station is featured in a significant subset of the larger collection, and a smaller number of images depicting early 1970s urban renewal of downtown Olathe are also available.

The Olathe Public Library does not actively collect photographs. Those with photographs to donate are urged to contact the Johnson County Museum at www.jocomuseum.org.