AQ Miller: Lobbying for Early Roads in Kansas
Date and Time: November 25, 2023
Location:
Republic County Historical Society Museum, 615 28th St, Belleville
(view on google maps)
A.Q. Miller, an early 20th century Belleville newspaper publisher, was instrumental and a strong driving force in the development of intrastate and interstate roads for travel, with the development of the automobile creating such a need.
On display will be letters, photos, and documents demonstrating Miller's work in various road development organizations. He was frequently the treasurer and chief fund raiser in these organizations (i.e., Meridian Road Association, Pikes Peak Ocean to Ocean Association) to advocate politically for the development of roads in Kansas and connecting them with roads being developed in adjoining states.
The display will also include physical artifacts of his efforts in road development, including early road signs and banners for the Meridian, Rock Island and Pike's Peak highways (later becoming the Pan American Highway/US 81 and US Route 36). Photos of Miller with Governors and other influential people in early road development will also be included. Many of his Belleville Telescope articles advocating road construction were picked up by the Kansas City Star, Topeka Daily Capital, and many other Kansas newspapers, increasing Mr. Miller's influence and advocacy effectiveness in creating Kansas roads, and many of these article will be on display. Apple One Media of Belleville, KS will help create a new display for A.Q. Millers lobbying efforts on behalf of Kansas road development.
This exhibit is part of "Voices and Votes," a statewide initiative exploring the history of American Democracy. For exhibition and event details, contact Republic County Historical Society Museum directly.
Sponsored by: Republic County Historical Society Museum
For more information about this event, please contact:
Ed Glenn
(785) 527-5971
http://republiccountyhistoricalmuseum.org