Experience, Living History, Museum, Tours

Watkins Woolen Mill, Museum & State Park

January 18, 2020 * Leave a comment

26600 Park Road North
Lawson, MO 64062
816-580-3387
The nation’s last fully equipped 19th century woolen mill is on the historic site once owned by the Watkins family. Tour the 1860 woolen mill and gristmill, the 1850 house, Visitor Center and Museum. The state park features camping, fishing, swimming and picnicking areas. The Living History Farm Program, offered on weekends in the spring and fall, brings the 1870s back to life with costumed interpreters demonstrating agricultural and industrial activities.

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The final award of the night went to the one and only Robbie Farabee, who was crowned as the official "Chalk Boss".

Robbie’s creativity and artistry have become an essential part of our downtown community. His chalk masterpieces at events and local businesses are more than just drawings – they’re works of art that bring life, color and personality to every corner of our community.

Robbie, your unique ability to personalize each piece with flair and passion makes every chalk design feel special. You’ve got a knack for turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary experience, and for that, we thank you! Your art doesn’t just decorate our streets – it tells a story!

Sturm Bros.' received a Community Spirit Award!

The Sturm Brothers team embodies what it means to be true partners in the community. They are always ready to lend a hand, whether it’s serving on the Design Team, planting and watering flowers, helping neighboring businesses, or hosting clean-up projects at local parks.

Their generosity knows no bounds, and their willingness to support causes and missions across Downtown Excelsior Springs makes them invaluable. Sturm Brothers, your contributions go far beyond jewelry; you bring heart, kindness, and a spirit of service that enriches us all. Thank you for being such a strong and positive force in our community!

Our next award was an Adaptability & Innovation award presented to Casa Di Vite International Wine Cafe!

Susan has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to evolving her business and finding new ways to meet the needs of our community. Recently, Susan transformed the upstairs of Casa Di Vite into an overnight rental, adding another much-needed bed to our district and offering guests a unique experience in our downtown.

In addition, Susan expanded the tasting room to offer delicious food options, which have been met with glowing reviews from customers. Her ability to pivot, adapt, and continuously improve her business model is truly commendable. Susan was also recently recognized as a winner of the prestigious Paul Bruhn Grant from Missouri Main Street Connection, which she will be using to make improvements to The Colonial at 328 E. Broadway. Your hard work, dedication, and vision have made Casa Di Vite a shining star in our community. Congratulations, Susan!

We also honored @sobtheatre Excelsior Springs Community Theatre /Slightly off Broadway Theatre with a Cultural Impact Award!

This recognition is especially meaningful because, as of last month, the theatre has officially become the full outright owner of the building at 114 N. Marietta! This achievement marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a true commitment to bringing arts and culture to Downtown Excelsior Springs.

For well over a decade, this theatre has been a cornerstone of our arts scene, entertaining us with incredible performances, fostering local talent, and enriching the cultural fabric of our community. We are thrilled that you’ve reached this milestone and are now in full control of your space, which DEP has been financing since 2009. Congratulations on paying off your loan and for continuing to be a beacon of creativity and joy in our downtown!

Next we honored Knit Ewe Together, LLC with a Community Crafting Award!

Shawna, the owner, has built more than just a shop; she has created a sanctuary for creativity, learning, and connection. In a world that often feels rushed, Knit Ewe Together offers a space where people can slow down, enjoy the art of crafting, and bond with others who share their passion.

Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just beginning, Shawna welcomes everyone with open arms and an encouraging spirit. The shop isn’t just a place to purchase yarn and supplies—it’s a community where friendships are formed, skills are shared, and confidence is built. Shawna, your dedication to fostering a warm and inclusive environment where people can gather, relax, and create is inspiring. Thank you for being a pillar of creativity in our downtown community.

The next Excellence Award was also a Retail Excellence Award that went to Butterfly Kisses Boutique!

Butterfly Kisses has become a downtown favorite with the array of trendy and stylish clothing, accessories and gifts carried. What started as an incubated business has flourished in a vibrant storefront and has captured the hearts of many. The growth has this business has been nothing short of incredible. Carol has expanded her reach and developed a loyal customer base in a very short amount of time. She offers high quality, fashion items that cater to all ages. Her dedication to connecting with customers both online and instore has played a huge role in the business’s success. We are so proud to have Butterfly Kisses Boutique as a shining example of what a downtown business can achieve. Congratulations!

Our second Excellence Award was a Retail Excellence Award that went to Vesta Hearth & Home!

This business has captured the essence of warmth, comfort, and beauty, by bringing carefully curated selections to their store. What makes them so remarkable is not just the quality of their products, but the passion and dedication Allen and Kerrie have shown in growing their business from a humble beginning to a thriving storefront. Their attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and commitment to hours of operation have created a welcoming environment that feels like a home away from home. From the moment you step into their store, you’re greeted with style that’s both inspiring and practical. Their rapid growth and passion for their business has help fill a much needed niche in our downtown district. Congratulations, Vesta Hearth & Home!

Let's meet this year's Excellence Award Winners! Our first award is an Outstanding New Business Award that went to Huey's Hidden Vault!

We are thrilled to recognize Huey’s Hidden Vault for their hard work, dedication, and the incredible energy they have brought to downtown. As a husband and wife team, they have poured their hearts into building this unique establishment and transforming it into a hidden gem that has quickly become a community favorite. Their upscale vibe, combined with the beautiful space, creates an inviting atmosphere that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Their craft cocktails are the talk of the town, and their cigar offerings add a level of sophistication and enjoyment that enriches our downtown scene. It’s not just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a space where people can gather, relax, and connect. Your commitment to creating something truly special in Downtown Excelsior Springs shines through, and we are so fortunate to have you here. Congratulations, Huey’s Hidden Vault.

We love Downtown Excelsior Springs in every season 🍂☃🌸☀️

Which is your favorite season to Visit Excelsior?

We're gearing up for another event in Downtown Excelsior Springs! For just $25, you can attend Mug Shots on Saturday, September 28th.

This is a craft beer sampling event throughout our participating boutiques, eateries, drinkeries, galleries, and shops! Free of charge, our Chamber Trolley will help you get around!

Link for tickets can be found in our bio 🍻

Lyrics on the Lawn is back this Friday evening! This is our second to last night of the Summer Music Series and we know you're not going to want to miss it!

We can't wait to welcome The Scott Moyer Band to our stage! Get ready for a night of modern vintage blues and rock! Raquelita's Mexican Food will be on site serving up tasty eats! 🎶🌮

📅 Friday, August 23rd
⌚️ 6:00-9:00pm
📍 Hall of Waters Lawn (201 E. Broadway)

We had so much fun with our friends at the Missouri Main Street Conference a few weeks ago. We’re excited to bring what we learned back home to share with our business owners and investors!

We had so much fun at Lyrics on the Lawn with Noah Austin! Join us next time on August 9th with Donny Waltman 🎶🎶🎶

Hands up if you're ready for another great evening at Lyrics on the Lawn tomorrow!🤘Here's a little information about this tomorrow's performer, Noah Austin!

Noah Austin Music delivers all of your favorite new country hits along with his discovery of original music, inspired by life experience. He is a solo acoustic country singer/songwriter from Lee's Summit, MO. He was a finalist in a King of Neon contest sponsored by the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN. Noah has also performed for Bar Stool Sessions for charity events and a local concert for awareness of teen suicide.

📅 Tomorrow, Friday July 26th
⌚ 6:00pm-9:00pm
📍The Lawn (201 E. Broadway)
🚚 All Things - Just Good Food

It’s hot out there, but our Downtown flowers are holding on 💛🌞🌼

Dust off your dancing shoes 💃🕺- Lyrics on the Lawn is back tomorrow night at the Hall of Waters! Come out and enjoy the Cosmic Country Collective sounds from Western Hippie and some great eats from Raquelita's Mexican Food Truck! The concert runs from 6:00 to 9:00pm on Friday, July 12th on The Lawn at the Hall of Waters.

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