Our Mission
Our mission is to preserve the ranching heritage of the Flint Hills. We share this legacy through educational events and exhibits.
Who to contact:
Lynn Smith, Executive Director
lynn@pioneerbluffs.org
620.753.3484
Board of Directors
President: Nancy Mattke, Andover
Vice President: Tom Brill, Leawood
Treasurer: Justin Garr, Strong City
Secretary: Mary Harwood, Matfield Green
Member-at-large : Larry Crouse, El Dorado
Member-at-large: Anna Bassford-Woods, Cottonwood Falls
Member-at-large: Mark Dobbins
Member-at-large: Eileen Sieger
Member-at-large: Susan Swift
Our Story
The history of Pioneer Bluffs began like many ranches in the Flint Hills.
In 1859, Charles Rogler, a young Austrian immigrant, walked from his home in Iowa to build a new life in Kansas. Charles’ son, Henry, and in turn a grandson, Wayne, later took the reins, making the ranch operation one of the most well-respected in the region.
Today Pioneer Bluffs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the ranching heritage of the Flint Hills. Located in the heart of the Flint Hills, Pioneer Bluffs’ 12 acre homestead serves as a gateway to understanding the past, present, and future of ranching, as we explore the unique features of ranching in the Flint Hills.
Discover our National Register Historic District with an iconic 1915 barn, restored to a one-of-a-kind event space that has historic charm; a 1916 granary/carriage house renovated to host ranching exhibits and research library; a classic 1908 farm house; log cabin; and mile-long limestone fence.
