Submitted

During the 2019 Nicodemus Chautauqua several paintings, originals and prints will be on display by local artist Mike Boss.

Boss resides in Hill City and has spent years painting scenes from the railroad past. Boss was mentored by artist Jack Lynnwood from Los Angeles, who painted many posters for Hollywood and for the Northrop Corporation. 

Boss also is a base player, with training from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and K-State. He has played with Hays Symphony and other venues around the state.

Most of Mike’s prints can be seen in area banks, libraries and businesses.  His love for the railroad and its impact on Kansas is depicted in his many railroad paintings. His 2007 painting titled, “Sunset on an Era UP U23 at Hill City, KS,” of Union Pacific engine 247 coming into Hill City graces the cover of the recent railroad book, “Union Pacific’s Plainville Branch,”  by Larry Dilts of Colby.

The National Park Service and the Nicodemus Historical Society are sponsoring the event and will include Boss’ exhibit from May 20 to June 1 at the Visitor Center.

The Nicodemus Chautauqua will be noon to 5 p.m. May 25 in Nicodemus. The event is titled “Steel Wheels, Steel Rails and Hell on Wheels” and will discuss the railroad bypassing the community.