News Summary
Kansas City is set to unveil a monumental tribute honoring the Wyandot Women Warriors, particularly the Conley sisters, as part of a public art project named ‘Trespassers Beware!’. Backed by a $200,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation, this project highlights their brave efforts in preserving their heritage, with the unveiling scheduled for August 30, 2025, at the Wyandotte County Historical Museum. The initiative promises an engaging community experience through various artistic expressions.
Exciting Plans Unfold in Kansas City for Monument Honoring Wyandot Women Warriors!
Big news is brewing in Kansas City! The Wyandot Nation of Kansas, in collaboration with Monumenta, has unveiled an inspiring public art project called “Trespassers Beware! Fort Conley and Wyandot Women Warriors.” This monumental tribute will shine a light on the heroic stories of the Wyandot Conley sisters – Lyda, Ida, and Helena – who bravely fought to protect their heritage. And guess what? They’ve recently scored a massive $200,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation!
A Monumental Milestone
This impressive funding is part of the larger Kansas City Monuments Coalition initiative, which is working hand in hand with the UMKC Center for Digital and Public Humanities. The public is eagerly waiting for the grand unveiling of this monument, set for a sunny Saturday on August 30, 2025. The stunning piece will take its home at the Wyandotte County Historical Museum, making it accessible for all to appreciate the sisters’ remarkable story.
Honoring Wyandot Heritage
The title “Trespassers Beware!” pays homage to a sign that the Conleys famously posted during their bold occupation of Fort Conley. Their activism was more than just a display of courage; it was a fight to protect a significant 2-acre cemetery that is part of the historic Wyandot National Burying Ground in Kansas City. Their relentless work against urban development is an inspiring tale of resistance that resonates deeply within the community.
A Multi-Faceted Artistic Journey
Not just a static piece of art, this project promises to be a multi-site, multidisciplinary experience that encourages community engagement. Starting from the heart of Kansas City, the monument will travel to various communities, ensuring that the legacy of the Conley sisters is felt far and wide. The Omakyehstih Collective – We Are Gathered Together, a group comprising three generations of deer and big turtle clan members from the Wyandotte Nation of Oklahoma, has been tasked with creating this impactful art piece.
Bringing Stories to Life
The artistic vision for the monument includes a rich tapestry of visual arts, audio, film, high-tech immersion, storytelling, and Native music. Such a robust combination will not only honor these warrior women but also make history come alive for visitors! And to enrich the experience even further, a replica of Fort Conley will be part of the installation, allowing attendees to step back in time.
A Legacy of Courage
Lyda Conley deserves a special mention – she wasn’t just one of the sisters but a fierce legal advocate as well. Earning her law degree, she famously argued a landmark case before the U.S. Supreme Court concerning cemetery rights, becoming the first Indigenous woman to do so in 1910. Her fight, alongside her sisters, showcased the strength and determination of the Wyandot women and their matriarchal culture.
Celebrating Local Talent
As this exciting project is set in motion, the Kansas City arts scene continues to flourish! Music Theater Heritage has announced upcoming productions of classic shows like “Carousel” and “Guys and Dolls,” featuring local talent. Additionally, Kansas City Jazz Alive is hosting two events to honor the city’s rich jazz heritage, reflecting the vibrant cultural mosaic of the area.
Preserving the Past for the Future
The Kansas City Monuments Coalition is steadfast in its mission to support and fund historic preservation projects across the region. This monumental tribute to the Wyandot Women Warriors is sure to be a pivotal moment in acknowledging the powerful narrative of Indigenous women and the resilience of their fight against erasure.
So mark your calendars and keep your eyes peeled as we count down to the unveiling of this extraordinary homage to the Conley sisters and their incredible legacy!
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Broadway
- New York Post
- Google Search: Broadway theater history
- Theatrely
- Google News: Broadway productions
- Watermark Online
- Google Scholar: Broadway theater
- Movin 92.5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Musical Theater
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
