Life Stories Wanted

Contrary to its reputation, the most populous county in Kansas doesn’t lack diversity. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s most recent estimate, the foreign-born population of Johnson County in 2000 was 37,419 — more than double what it was in 1990. This segment of society also interests the Johnson County Museum (6305 Lackman in Shawnee, 913-715-2550), which invites immigrants and their children to share their stories and mementos during a collecting event from 1 to 4 p.m. today. Participants answer a questionnaire (also available online at jocomuseum.org/other/immigrantsurvey.shtml) and are asked to bring photographs, clothing, religious items or everyday objects that pertain to their lives and culture. “We’re really hoping to get photographs and artifacts that represent their experience living in Johnson County,” says Melissa Fisher Isaacs, assistant curator. Those experiences will be reflected in New Immigrants and the American Dream, an exhibit scheduled to open in spring 2011.

Sat., Oct. 24, 1-4 p.m., 2009