To the editor:

For much of Wilson’s history, the old grain silos in the center of town have stood strong and proud, capturing the imaginations of sightseers and photographers. This interesting complex of silos is one of a kind, seen nowhere else. Times change, and the silos were abandoned long ago. For years, local leaders and the railroad itself looked for ways to have them torn down.

In 2018, I bought these silos from the railroad. Friends and local contractors helped remove trees that threatened the silo foundations and demolish and clean-up a dilapidated former lumber yard next door. And then came an idea: What if I called these historic silos “Mountains of the Prairie?” And what if these “mountains” had sure-footed goats romping around on top and beside them, with fencing to ensure safety, of course. And what if these cute little goats were called “Kansas mountain goats?”

Nigerian Dwarf goats are sure-footed, adventurous, gentle, fun-loving, and half the size of full-sized goats. Within the unique setting of historic silos and an active railroad, these cute and energetic critters would be broadcast over the internet for the whole world to see. People adore cute animals, railroads and trains, historic buildings, and fun ideas. The World’s Largest Czech Egg is an example of people drawn to historic and unique things.

Wilson’s mayor and city council have promoted misinformation about goats and have rejected my ideas. Statements from city leaders and others at city council meetings have been inaccurate and, to a great extent, dishonest. This is owed to lack of imagination, resistance to change, ego and power.

When S.P. Dinsmoor built the Garden of Eden in Lucas he encountered much opposition from local leaders. Fortunately, he pushed through. The rest is history for this important landmark.

Our mayor has stated publicly that when the World’s Largest Czech Egg was proposed he thought it was a bad idea. He believed it would not attract tourists. If he had been in a position of influence during those critical early-development stages of the Czech egg, he might have killed it the way he is trying to kill my ideas. That would have been a great loss for Wilson.

Accomplishments start as ideas. Giving new ideas a chance to succeed takes courage. With honesty, optimism and open minds, Wilson might inspire entrepreneurial thinking and discover new ways to grow and prosper.

Give the Mountains of the Prairie and the Kansas Mountain Goats a chance to succeed in Wilson.

David Criswell

Former mayor and City Council member

Wilson