A True Kansas Treasure: A Farmer, a Fossil & a Legacy

A True Kansas Treasure: A Farmer, a Fossil & a Legacy

March 30, 2026 | Member features ยท Supporting Kansas

Kansas treasures are kept alive by those who preserve history, share meaningful experiences, and celebrate what makes the state unique. The story behind A True Kansas Treasure by Joel Condray is a powerful example of this. What began as a remarkable discovery in Ottawa County, Kansas grew into something far more meaningful — a story passed from grandfather to grandson.

After a powerful storm swept through the area in 1955, Warren Condray, a farmer and rancher, rode out on horseback to check his fields. That day marked the beginning of a family legacy. Scattered across his land were unusual skeletal remains. After five years of research, the discovery was confirmed to be a previously unknown species of dinosaur, later named Silvisaurus condrayi in his honor.

This discovery was especially significant because it dated back to a time when much of Kansas was covered by an inland sea. Today, the fossil stands on display at the KU Natural History Museum, serving as a reminder of the state’s rich and unexpected history.

Over the years, Warren shared this story countless times with his grandson, Joel Condray. Those moments created a strong bond and inspired a children’s book rooted in curiosity, storytelling, and a shared appreciation for Kansas heritage. “The book I wrote is a tribute to my grandpa and his story, and my upbringing as a child,” says Condray.The story goes beyond a fossil discovery and highlights the importance of family and remembering where we come from.Joel wrote the story in just thirty minutes, and with illustrations by artist Mark Ward, it was brought to life for future generations to enjoy in 2009.

Joel’s efforts to preserve the story didn’t stop with the book. Now a sixth-grade teacher, he brings the story into his classroom. “I am in my 23rd year of teaching sixth grade in Goddard, Kansas, I love being a lifelong resident of Kansas, growing up on a farm, and sharing the stories of my incredible upbringing,” says Condray. Alongside his students, Joel worked with Elaine Bowers, in 2023, to help pass legislation recognizing Silvisaurus condrayi as the official State Land Fossil of Kansas. Students learned how laws are created, participated in the legislative process, and even helped present the case to lawmakers.

“In February of 2023, the governor of Kansas signed legislation naming my grandpa’s dinosaur the official State Land Fossil of Kansas,” says Condray. This story didn’t just preserve a moment in history — it strengthened a bond between generations and inspired students to take part in something meaningful.

Stories like this reflect a broader theme across Kansas. Whether it’s a fossil, a family story, or a moment in time, these pieces of history shape how future generations learn, connect, and carry on a legacy.

Shop the True Kansas Treasure book on the From the Land of Kansas website or learn more at truekstreasure.com.

 

Written by Ainsley Pecenka, Intern

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