Emporia (pop. 27,000) was the home of William Allen White, editor and pucblisher of the Emporia Gazette from 1895 to 1944. He was an outspoken journalist who had an influence on national affairs. The city became the first to observe Veterans Day in 1953 due to a proposal by another resident, Alvin J. King.
The All Veterans Memorial in Emporia is dedicated to all US war veterans, including those from the Persian Gulf War. A WWII army tank and Huey helicopter are surrounded by flags and tributes.
The Lyon County Historical Museum in Emporia features local and regional memorabilia that are presented in various galleries. A log cabin and pioneer items are highlights of the museum.
The National Teachers Hall of Fame in Emporia features old school desks, teacher contracts, antique textbooks, class attendance records and other artifacts representing the early days of teaching. There is also a one-room schoolhouse. Teachers in the Hall of Fame have been recognized for their commitment and dedication to teaching.