Lee Summit Chamber
Mayor’s Message
Dear residents, An industrious man named William B. Howard was drawn to a picturesque area of Missouri with rolling prairie, abundant water, wild flowers and fertile soil. His dream was to build a great City on this land; in 1865 that dream became a reality with the founding of the small Town of Strother, which we all know today as Lee’s Summit. This year marks an incredible milestone in our City’s history; Lee’s Summit is 150 years old. That’s reason to celebrate all things Lee’s Summit. Our community has grown from an 11-block town with just a handful of citizens to occupying more than 65 square miles and a population of over 93,000 residents. We’ve evolved as a result of our welcoming people, new technology, improvements to infrastructure, increased business activity and abundant quality of life amenities. Throughout the years, Lee’s Summit has realized impressive achievements from a revitalized downtown and quality educational systems, to the Great American Main Street Award and a Gold Medal award-winning parks and recreation system. We’re known nationally as one of the “Best Places to Live,” the “Best Places to Raise a Family,” and the “Safest Communities in America.” Even more reason to celebrate our progress! Preparations have been underway for more than a year to make our sesquicentennial memorable from the opening of the 1965 Centennial Time Capsule and City Equipment Show to the Celebrate 150! Parade and Event. See all the events and festivities scheduled for our yearlong celebration at www.Truly150.com. I extend a special thank you to Truly 150 Committee Chairperson Art Davis for his tremendous leadership during the planning and implementation of these activities as well as the widespread, passionate involvement of the members of the subcommittees. Now, it’s the community’s opportunity to be a part of this historic moment in our City’s history that was 150 years in the making. Please consider this your personal invitation to join me and the entire community for a series of fun-filled and exciting events, all in honor of Yours Truly, Lee’s Summit. I’ll see you there!
Yours Truly, Randy Rhoads Mayor City of Lee’s Summit
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City Council District 1
Rob Binney
District 2
Diane Forte
District 3
Derek Holland
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Allan S. Gray II
Trish Carlyle
District 4
Diane Seif
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Bob Johnson
Dave Mosby
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A MESSAGE FROM THE TRULY 150 STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIR Art Davis
It’s finally here - Lee’s Summit’s Sesquicentennial - our 150th Birthday! A year-long celebration in 2015 has been planned by the Truly 150 Steering Committee, a group of dedicated and passionate leaders volunteering time and resources to help organize a series of events worthy of our great community. The Committee consists of more than 40 civic, business and government representatives who have been meeting for more than 18 months. We encourage you to seek more information from the website www.Truly150.com to learn about the planned events, identify volunteer opportunities, and to consider making a tax-deductible contribution to help ensure a successful celebration. There are so many people to thank: our honorary co-chairs Robert “Bud” Hertzog and Mayor Randy Rhoads, steadfast supporters of Lee’s Summit; the Truly 150 Steering Committee; our collaborative partners who worked with us to cosponsor important community events; and the many task forces and volunteers assembled to help organize each of the Truly 150 “signature” events. Most of all, we want to thank our many generous financial contributors including individuals, families, businesses, civic and nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies. Without their support, this yearlong celebration would not be possible. Their passion for Lee’s Summit speaks volumes about the uniqueness of our community, and reflects the caring, giving nature of what many of us experience every day. Special thanks to our “flagship” partner, the Historical Society of Lee’s Summit. How fitting our community will open an expanded and renovated history museum in early 2015 during its 150th birthday! Please visit and support the Lee’s Summit History Museum as they expand and develop exhibits this year. Now it’s up to you to come out, have fun, and help us celebrate this great milestone for the community. We have planned a year full of great events that will highlight the Sesquicentennial – all listed in our schedule of events. Thanks for your support to help showcase everything great about our community. Happy Birthday, Lee’s Summit, and here’s to many, many more.
Yours Truly, Art Davis III, Chair Truly 150 Steering Committee
Photography Acknowledgement Photographs throughout this commemorative edition are courtesy of the City of Lee’s Summit, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, Historical Society of Lee’s Summit and the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce.
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The Truly 150 Committee, front row from left to right: Don Beaman, Phyllis Balagna, Vicky Cundiff, Jennifer Gamble, Art Davis, Bud Hertzog, Mayor Randy Rhoads, Darla Hall, Rob Lund and Sarah Shore; second row from left to right: John Faulkenberry, Bob Glaser, Ben Martin, Kelli Welch, Nancy Bruns, Stephen Arbo, Donna Gordon, Denise Chisum, Christine Bushyhead and Rick Viar; and third row from left to right: Gina Seibel, John Wisniewski, Mike Dodig, John Beaudoin, Nick Edwards and Jeffrey Smith. Committee members not pictured: Melanie Adkins, Carol Baker, Rachel Casey, David Dean, Trisha Drape, Jon Ellis, Jarad Falk, Diane Forte, Daren Fristoe, Gary Fruits, Kent Kirby, Jane Monroe, Dr. Kirk Nooks, Janice Phelan, Laurence Pressley, Colene Roberts, Donnie Rodgers, Dave Schoenherr, Kathy Smith and James Wright.
The Truly 150 Leadership Team, from left to right: Jon Ellis, Ben Martin, Nancy Bruns, Vicky Cundiff, Denise Chisum, Phyllis Balagna, Darla Hall, Donna Gordon, Bob Glaser, Art Davis and John Wisniewski. Leadership Team members not pictured: Stephen Arbo and Gary Fruits.
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Jan. 22
Mayor’s Character Breakfast
June 13
The Pavilion at John Knox Village
March 14
Emerald Isle Parade
Got Talent? Lee’s Summit High School
July 25
Downtown Lee’s Summit
Party in the Park-Celebrating Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday! Summit Waves
April 16
MCC-Longview Spring Convocation
Aug. 1
Downtown Lee’s Summit
The Pavilion at John Knox Village
April 18
Flights of Fancy Kite Festival
Aug. 1
Historic Preservation Month
Sept. 25-26 Oktoberfest Downtown Lee’s Summit
Lee’s Summit History Museum
May 16
Opening of Centennial Time Capsule, Art & Artifacts Fair and City Equipment Show Lee’s Summit City Hall
May 22-23
Oct. 9-11 Oct. 18
A Fair to Remember Downtown Days... Streets Alive! Festival
Summit Art Festival Downtown Lee’s Summit
Founder’s Day Celebration & Dedication of New Time Capsule Lee’s Summit History Museum
Paradise Park
June 5-7
Celebrate 150! Event Lee’s Summit High School
MCC-Longview
May 1-31
Celebrate 150! Parade
Dec. 11-12
Downtown Lee’s Summit
Truly 150 Signature Events are in Bold Blue Text Lee’s Summit has more than 100 events each year. To view them all, visit Truly150.com
Holiday Magic & Memories Lee’s Summit Symphony
Truly 150 Signature Events In addition to attending all of your favorite annual community events, be sure to check out these special one-time-only Truly 150 Signature Events taking place in 2015. For more information, visit Truly150.com throughout the year.
Mayor’s Character Breakfast: Jan. 22
Local nonprofit organization Lee’s Summit CARES hosts this annual event at The Pavilion at John Knox Village, and this year’s event kicked off Lee’s Summit’s Sesquicentennial celebration. This uplifting event celebrated Character in the Lee’s Summit community. This year’s motivational speaker was David Von Drehle, acclaimed author of Abraham Lincoln: Rise to Greatness. Von Drehle is an Editor-at-large for Time magazine, where he has written many of the most important cover stories of the past six years.
MCC-Longview Spring Convocation: April 16
Join MCC-Longview at The Pavilion at John Knox Village in celebration of the 100th birthday of the Metropolitan Community College (MCC) system and the 150th birthday of Lee’s Summit. Keynote speakers, descendants of Henrietta Lacks, will discuss the book The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot. The book tells the story of an African-American tobacco farmer whose cancer cells led to the polio vaccine, cloning, gene mapping and other important medical innovations – all without Lacks’ knowledge, permission or compensation. Oprah Winfrey is producing a movie about the story. In addition to this Centennial event, MCC-Longview will host the Flights of Fancy Kite Festival on April 18, and its first-ever spring homecoming week, April 16-22.
Opening of the Centennial Time Capsule: May 16
A time capsule was buried in 1965 as part of Lee’s Summit’s Centennial (100th) birthday celebration, and its contents will be revealed at its opening during the City of Lee’s Summit’s Big Truck & Equipment Show in front of City Hall. Rumor has it the opening will be a hairy situation! In addition, kids of all ages can climb up into the driver’s seat of some of the City’s biggest pieces of equipment. The Art & Artifacts Fair also will take place in the City Hall lobby in celebration of Historic Preservation Month.
A Fair to Remember: May 22-23
Did you know that Lee’s Summit hosted the Jackson County Fair for many years? The fair was held in Harris Park, and people from all over Jackson County and beyond traveled to Lee’s Summit to exhibit prize-winning livestock, enter homemade items and goods for judging and to celebrate their agricultural roots. The Truly 150 Committee wants to take you back to that era with an old-fashioned County Fair event at Paradise Park, and the whole community is invited. There will be live bands, a petting zoo, a student oration contest, a Sesquicentennial Queen contest and much more. The event also will feature “Toby Shows,” which were travelling rural American theatre shows popular in the early twentieth century and featured vaudeville-type melodramas.
Party in the Park – Celebrating Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday: July 25
Celebrate Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday while helping to create a legacy in the community. Legacy for Parks Foundation hosts this annual fundraising event at Summit Waves Aquatic Center. Enjoy an evening of music, food and fun in a resort-themed paradise.
Celebrate 150! Parade and Event: Aug. 1
Enjoy an historic-themed parade in Downtown Lee’s Summit dedicated to the Sesquicentennial celebration, followed by a community event at Lee’s Summit High School. The event will feature a variety of local organizations and performances, including music, dance, choral performances and more.
Founder’s Day Celebration: Oct. 18
What would you put in the Sesquicentennial time capsule? The Founder’s Day Celebration event will take place at the new Lee’s Summit History Museum and includes the dedication of the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule.
Truly 150 – Holiday Magic & Memories: Dec. 11-12
The Truly 150 – Holiday Magic & Memories event at Lee’s Summit High School is the finale to the Sesquicentennial celebration, and will feature a performance by the Lee’s Summit Symphony and other special guests.
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LEE’S SUMMIT HISTORY
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ore than one hundred years ago, the small eleven-block Town of Strother straddled the Missouri Pacific Railroad tracks. Today, that small town consists of 65.24 square miles and is known as the City of Lee’s Summit. In the late 1800s, a man by the name of William B. Howard was drawn to this fertile, gently rolling prairie land with the dream of building a city. Today, more than 93,000 residents have been enticed to this progressive, yet restful and family-oriented community atmosphere, with a unified dream to create a dynamic, vital city. From yesterday to today, the story of this once small town has been filled with the courage, dedication, and quiet determination of its citizens, making Lee’s Summit an ideal city in which to live and work. On October 28, 1865, William B. Howard founded the Town of Strother by filing a plat containing the 11 blocks that currently encompass the downtown business district. At the time of incorporation, the population count stood at 100 people. In November of 1868, the name was changed and the area incorporated as the “Town of Lee’s Summit.” Although the “Summit” portion of the name was obviously based on the fact the town’s elevation is the highest point on the railroad between Kansas City and St. Louis, there are numerous opinions and theories on the origin of “Lee.” According to one theory, the town was named after Civil War General Robert E. Lee, since incorporation took place shortly after the war and the majority of citizens migrated from the Southern states. However, another version suggests the town was named after a prominent early settler, Dr. Pleasant Lea. The discrepancy in the spelling of “Lea” has been attributed to railroad sign painters.
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ses what The original Town of Strother encompas central business district .
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Longview Farm was purchased in 1912 by prominent lumberman R. A. Long. Longview Mansion is one of its iconic structures. Lee’s Summit’s most infamous citizen was Cole Younger, called “The Last of the Great Outlaws” by author Homer Croy. According to history, soldiers drove Younger to a life outside the law after his father’s murder and subsequent robbery. While Union forces were enforcing Order #11, the command issued in 1862 ostensibly to burn homes belonging to those with southern ties, Younger and his brothers were credited with saving some of the original homes within Lee’s Summit, the most prominent of which belonged to William B. Howard. Order #11 helped to unify the transplanted southern population in Missouri and compelled Younger to join the Confederate guerrilla band known as Quantrill’s Raiders. Cole Younger was arrested after an attempted bank robbery in Northfield, Minnesota. Following 25 years of imprisonment for his crimes, Cole Younger was paroled in 1901. Three years later, Younger returned to Lee’s Summit where he lived as a model citizen until his death in 1916. His grave is located in the Lee’s Summit Historic Cemetery.
is now the downtown Lee’s Summit
The Fire of 1885 demonstrated yet again the stamina personified by citizens in Lee’s Summit. While most of the town’s residents were attending Sunday morning church services, fire erupted in the downtown district, which consisted of dry, wooden buildings. A detailed account of the fire, as printed in the April 16, 1885, issue of The Lee’s Summit Journal, stated the buildings burned “like greased wood.” Virtually the entire business district was destroyed and the loss aggregated at $87,000, with a total
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of 25 buildings consumed by the flames. However, the stalwart citizens took their losses in stride and promptly commenced rebuilding the town. Almost 30 years later, Mr. R.A. Long, a prominent Kansas City lumberman, began building his dream, which became a reality with the construction of Longview Farm. In 1912, Mr. Long purchased approximately 1,700 acres in the southwest portion of Lee’s Summit. Mostly self-sufficient, the farm included five major barn groups and 42 buildings. When completed and functional, Longview Farm became internationally known for the horses and livestock contained within its white rail fences and was one of only three dozen showplace farms. The history of Lee’s Summit abounds with the tragedies and triumphs of courageous people who have never failed in their dream of creating a city that will continually progress and prosper. Most importantly, Lee’s Summit is comprised of dedicated people who never lose touch with the basic values that make a community livable. We believe Lee’s Summit has lived up to the dreams of its forefathers.
Mayor Ed Falk inspects a new highway sign during the 1950’s. Western Electric in the background.
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The mural “Pastoral” by artist Ted Gilien will be showcased in the new Lee’s Summit History Museum.
Lee’s Summit History Museum Opens in Early 2015
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he new Lee’s Summit History Museum will open its doors in early 2015, just in time for the community-wide Sesquicentennial celebration taking place throughout the year in honor of Lee’s Summit’s 150th birthday.
The Historical Society of Lee’s Summit has operated its museum in the south end of the historic 1905 train depot located on S.E. Main Street in downtown Lee’s Summit since 1991. The museum houses a number of historic artifacts, maps, and photos of early Lee’s Summit; however, with limited space available for exhibits, much of Lee’s Summit’s history has been in storage...until recently. In April 2013, Lee’s Summit voters approved a no-taxincrease bond issue that provided funding for renovations to the historic 1939 Works Progress Administration (WPA) Post Office at 220 S.W. Main St. in downtown Lee’s Summit. The building has been a Post Office, housed City Hall for many years, and was most recently the administrative offices of a local nonprofit organization. After
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renovations, the building will become the perfect home for our community’s history museum. Hollis + Miller was the architect on the project, and contractor The Wilson Group was awarded the contract for renovations which began in August 2014. One special feature of the renovated building is a mural titled “Pastoral” by New York artist Ted Gilien. Installed in the Post Office in 1940, the “Bentonesque” mural masterfully depicts a man, woman, boy and two horses in a pastoral scene. The Historical Society held its first-ever fundraiser in October 2014, with a Celebrity Dinner & Roast of wellknown local veterinarian and civic leader Robert “Bud” Hertzog. More than 200 guests attended the event, which was a rousing success. Although the new museum location is just across the railroad tracks, the enlarged space opens up a whole new
world of possibilities to showcase Lee’s Summit’s history. Well over three times the size of the museum’s space in the depot, the Historical Society is planning brand-new exhibits to highlight founder of Lee’s Summit William B. Howard, the Border War, baseball in Lee’s Summit and much more. Be sure to check for updates about the new Lee’s Summit History Museum at Truly150.com. The Historical Society of Lee’s Summit is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that will operate the facility on membership dues and private donations. Please consider joining the Historical Society as a member and supporting the future of the museum. For more information, visit leessummithistory.net.
Thanks to Lee’s Summit voters, a no-tax-increase bond issue provided the funding for renovations to the historic 1939 WPA Post Office building which will house the new Lee’s Summit History Museum.
The new museum will highlight founder of Lee’s Summit William B. Howard baseball in Lee’s Summit and more. These renderings by local artist Dave Eames depict what some of the new exhibits may look like when completed.
Building renovations began in August 2014. The new museum will open in early 2015.
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VOGUE THEATRE RAMP
METHENY DISPLAY
Exhibit Hall
HOWARD GALLERY
Storage
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MURAL DISPLAYS
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Restored Lobby
Graves / Hale Research Center Safe
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Restored Post-Master's Office
FLOOR PLAN - FIRST FLOOR
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LEE'S SUMMIT MUSEUM SPACE
Floor plan for the new museum.
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Store Supplies
Stairs
Museum Store
educational municipal commercial®
Toilet
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Historical Society Museum of Lee's Summit
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LEE’S SUMMIT’S HISTORIC DEPOT
he historic 1905 Missouri Pacific Depot building sits in Howard Station Park between East and West Main streets in downtown Lee’s Summit. This venerable building has long been an icon in our city’s historic downtown.
The original depot was a boxcar, which was used by the railroad until a depot building could be built. Then, a humble white clapboard building served our city until a devastating fire claimed the building in 1903. Railroad agent A.P. Maxwell reported that three loaded boxcars and most of the railroad records were also destroyed in the fire. The operations of the Missouri Pacific Railroad were then shifted to the Gattrell Building, which was located on Southeast Third Street. After much political debate regarding the building materials for the new Depot building, builder Jake Sechler, who also did work at Longview Farm, was selected by Missouri Pacific to erect the structure. On December 11, 1905, a grand celebration was held at the new depot to dedicate the beautiful brick building. Over the years, the Missouri Pacific Railroad has been key to the growth of Lee’s Summit. Lee’s Summit was once one of the largest shipping points between Kansas
City and St. Louis. Thousands of pounds of produce from Lee’s Summit’s many orchards were dispersed all over the country. Livestock of all types was shipped from the stockyards, which was located on Southeast Main Street between Fourth and Fifth streets. Passenger service that linked Lee’s Summit with the rest of America was also essential to our growth. The railroad brought new faces and new ideas to our town. The depot has played an essential role in the history of Lee’s Summit. It was there when returning doughboys came home for the first time in the years after World War I. Returning G.I’s brought their new brides to their hometown to live and raise their families. Politicians have given speeches from the train. Historical figures such as Cole Younger and William Jennings Bryant came to our depot via the train. The depot also was home to the Historical Society’s museum for more than 20 years. The museum is relocating to the WPA Post Office building on Southwest Main Street. Currently, the depot building houses the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council offices.
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LEE’S SUMMIT’S CENTENNIAL QUEEN
The Centennial crown is still proudly displayed in the home of Lee’s Summit’s Centennial Queen, Mrs. Norma Wood. Perched on top is a photo of her from 1965.
for the entrepreneurial spirit of many of those individuals who created a life for themselves and their families over the past century. And like Mrs. Don Wood, many are still proud to call Lee’s Summit home. The Woods remained independent small business owners for more than 32 years. Their business holdings included, among other things, a men’s clothing store as well as a beauty shop.
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n Valentine’s Day 1948, Norma and Don Wood were married. Seventeen years later, in 1965, Mrs. Don Wood was named Centennial Queen for the City of Lee’s Summit and her uninterrupted reign comes to an end this year as the City of Lee’s Summit officially celebrates its Sesquicentennial Anniversary. Shortly thereafter a celebration of another kind will take place when Mrs. Don Wood, who now lives in John Knox Village, celebrates her 90th birthday. When you comment to Mrs. Wood that her Valentine’s Day marriage to Mr. Wood was indeed romantic, she corrects you.“Well, it just so happens that Valentine’s Day back in 1948 fell on a Saturday so we didn’t have much of a choice, especially since Don and I had to get back at work on Monday.” Talking to Mrs. Don Wood, you get a feel
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“Besides our population, which was around 3,000 back in the late 40s the character of the city hasn’t changed all that much,” said Mrs. Don Wood. “Lee’s Summit has always been a great town. We’re a place where family and tradition has always mattered. People always looked out for their neighbors and cared about their community, and as far as I’m concerned they still do. Isn’t that what the definition of community is all about?” They say that an understanding of the past is fundamental to understanding the present. Thanks to Mrs. Don Wood, Lee’s Summit is the kind of place that possesses a rich, colorful past that echoes its timeless cultural traditions. It’s the kind of place that allows us to glimpse back in time and surround ourselves with all things true and meaningful, things with character, that provide residents and visitors alike with a genuine appreciation for all those who have come before us. Thank you Mrs. Don Wood and others like you for all you’ve done to keep Lee’s Summit headed in the right direction. We couldn’t have done it without you. A very Happy Birthday to you, and Lee’s Summit.
GET IN GEAR: SESQUICENTENNIAL MEMORABILIA Show your support for Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday by stocking up on Sesquicentennial memorabilia available now at Hy-Vee East, 301 NE Rice Rd., and Hy-Vee West, 310 SW Ward Rd., and coming soon to the Lee’s Summit History Museum, 220 SW Main St., which is scheduled to open in early 2015. Shirts and hats, proudly displaying the Sesquicentennial logo, will be available for purchase. Be sure to look for free memorabilia, like pens and stickers, at community events throughout the year.
New Lee’s Summit History Book Coming Soon The new book History of Lee’s Summit 1865-2015 is coming soon – just in time for Lee’s Summit’s Sesquicentennial. A nine-member committee, formed by the Historic Society of Lee’s Summit in 2011, wrote the book with plans to publish during the Sesquicentennial celebration. Tracing the history of this area, the book describes in detail the evolution of a small, agricultural community to an award-winning city with a population of more than 93,000. The committee’s major task was not what to put in the book, but what not to include, due to space and time. As with any historical tale, conflicting versions, myths and legends arise for any one event; however, many hours of research and extensive documentation have hopefully created an accurate account. Unique historical information and pictures, some never seen publicly, will make the book not only informational but interesting to all. The book will be for sale by mid 2015 at the new Lee’s Summit History Museum, 220 SW Main St.
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AWARD-WINNING LEE’S SUMMIT Lee’s Summit has a lot to be excited about! Check out all of these awards and honors Lee’s Summit has received over the past 10 years! • Top 10 Happiest Places in Missouri by Movoto.com • Creative Community Award from the Missouri Arts Council • Gold Medal Award from National Recreation and Parks Association • Great American Main Street Award for Downtown Lee’s Summit • Sustainability Action Plan recognized by the Mid-America Regional Council • Best Places to Live by Money Magazine (2006, 2010) • D owntown Lee’s Summit Main Street Inc. won Missouri Main Street Connection Excellence Awards for Best Creative Fundraising Project, Top Special Event, the Greatest Achievement Award and more • S afety Champion Award by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration • M id-Western Institute of Transportation Engineers Transportation Achievement in Safety for the School Traffic Safety Study Program • Silver Design Award for Fire Station No. 2 from Fire Chief Magazine • E nvironmental ImpacT Award for the traffic signal synchronization program from the Kansas City Business Journal • T he Lee’s Summit Police Department received the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Advanced Law Enforcement Accreditation. • C apstone Award for Infrastructure and Retail from the Kansas City Business Journal • Recognized as Wealth Center from portfolio.com •
“Fastest Growing Cities in America” from BusinessWeek
• T he City of Lee’s Summit won Best Downtown Public Improvement Project Award
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• B est Old House Neighborhoods: Best Old House Neighborhoods 2010: The Midwest • 2010 KCITE Excellence in Transportation Award for “green” achievements • D igital Cities Survey: Top ten most advanced digital city in 2008, 2009 & 2010 • L SEDC honored with a 2009 Excellence Award by the Missouri Economic Development Council • T he International Economic Development Council (IEDC) recognized LSEDC with an Excellence in Economic Development Honorable Mention Award for its Upward & Outward Annual Report • The Best Places to Raise Your Kids 2009 Businessweek.com • B ronze Walk Friendly Community from Pedestrian Bicycle Information Center • Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists • L ee’s Summit received Fall 2010 Honorable Mention League of American Bicyclists • Downtown Lee’s Summit Named Best Streetscape by The Pitch. • L ee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Named Chamber of the Year by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce • National Register of Historic Places • M id-Western Institute of Transportation Engineers for the City of Lee’s Summit’s Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program • Chamber 5-Star Accreditation
Stay Connected with Truly 150 Be a part of the fun and excitement! Start by signing up for the Truly 150 newsletter by selecting “Get Involved” at Truly150.com. The newsletter is full of information on our community-wide celebration and upcoming volunteer opportunities. There also is a lot of buzz about the Truly 150 efforts on social media. See what others are sharing and join in the discussion: “like” the Truly 150 Facebook page at facebook.com/truly 150; follow @Truly150 on Twitter; follow @lstruly150 on Instagram; follow the Sesquicentennial board on Pinterest at pinterest.com/cityofls or email us @ info@truly150.com.
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SESQUICENTENNIAL TIME CAPSULE In 1965, during Lee’s Summit’s Centennial (100th) celebration, a time capsule was filled and buried. The time capsule’s contents will be revealed at a ceremony during the City of Lee’s Summit’s Big Truck & Equipment on May 16, 2015, in City Hall Plaza on Green Street. At the end of 2015, the community will dedicate the Sesquicentennial time capsule to be opened during Lee’s Summit’s Bicentennial (200th) celebration in 2065. What do you think should be in the time capsule? Truly 150 Committee members were out and about in the community and asked a few Lee’s Summit residents what they would like to see in the time capsule: • Bill Brooks (and son Bosley), residents since 2006: “Something from the three high schools would be appropriate. Education is such a big part of our community. It’s something we take pride in and one of the main reasons we moved here.” • Paul Westfall, resident since 2013: “A newspaper from the Royals appearance in the World Series.” • Steve and Sue Tominia, residents since 1987: “Photos of the streets as they look today in downtown Lee’s Summit; aerial views of how downtown looks in 2015.”
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• Norma Wood, resident since 1944: “Something from the school district that would show the pride we have.” And here’s what people are saying on the Truly 150 Facebook page: • • • • • • • • • •
Aerial view of Lee’s Summit and/or Downtown Flash drive loaded with current pictures iPhone iPod loaded with today’s top music License plate Prices of common groceries, gas, etc. Restaurant menus Utility bills Yearbooks from each high school 2014 Royals World Series Baseball Hat
The Sesquicentennial time capsule will be dedicated during the Founder’s Day Celebration on Oct. 18, 2015, at the new Lee’s Summit History Museum, 220 SW Main St. Visit truly150.com for more information.
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LEE’S SUMMIT MEMORIES What are your favorite memories of Lee’s Summit? Whether you have lived in Lee’s Summit for five years or fifty years, we want to hear from you. Here’s what one person had to say about remembering the 1965 Lee’s Summit Centennial celebration and looking forward to the Sesquicentennial: “The family moved to Lee’s Summit in the summer of 1963. My father was a manager at the Western Electric plant which had recently been constructed. I graduated from the one and only Lee’s Summit High School in May 1964. The following summer I was privileged to participate in the 1965 Centennial celebration. I was “on the front row” as the dignitaries filled the time capsule with artifacts of the era. One item included in the time treasures was a 45 record by the Beatles (I think it was “I Wanna Hold Your Hand”). I remember committing right then and there to be present 50 years later when that same time capsule would be unearthed. It seemed so very far off in the future – I would be 68 by then. Yikes!! Soon after that wonderful summer of ‘65, I joined the U.S. Air Force and served four years during the Vietnam conflict.”
Share your fondest memories of Lee’s Summit at Truly150.com.
From the end of the line to the beginning of a proud community. Union Pacific congratulates Lee’s Summit on its sesquicentennial.
www.up.com
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Truly 150 LEE’S SUMMIT Sesquicentennial 1865-2015
John Knox Village is a cornerstone of the Lee’s Summit community. Older adults have
looked to the wonderful retirement lifestyle and full continuum of care offered at the Village for more than 40 years. From brand-new single-family homes in independent living, to assisted living and skilled nursing along with home health, personal care services and hospice – you can be confident knowing all your long-term health care needs will be met by caring professionals.
We’re your one resource for retirement living. Call us today for more information. 816-251-8000 Information Center: 1001 N.W. Chipman Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081
Independent Living
. Full array of amenities and services . Wide variety of housing choices and financial contracts
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Community Health Services
. Village Home Health Therapy Services, Skilled Nursing . Village Helpers In-Home Non-Medical Personal Care . Village Hospice End of life care with dignity, compassion and grace
. Home For Life Solutions
Valley View Residential Care/ Village Assisted Living . Spacious private apartments . Medication administration . Memory support
Village Care Center
. Long-term Care . Rehabilitation . Memory Care
. Inpatient Hospice Services
Emergency help button along with other devices and products
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CELEBRATE LEE’S SUMMIT’S FOUR ERAS During Lee’s Summit’s Sesquicentennial celebration in 2015, four eras will be recognized and celebrated. SETTLEMENT (1865-1914) Pioneers who settled here before the Civil War were forced from their homes in 1863 by Order No. 11. They returned to burned and ravaged homes and lands but the stalwart Missourians were determined to rebuild. With the coming of the railroad, Lee’s Summit became a major railhead for shipping livestock and crops. From 1865 to 1914, there were constant “New Beginnings,” with electricity, cars, telephones, indoor plumbing, and more. ESTABLISHMENT (1915-1964) Lee’s Summit continued “emerging”over the next 50 years. Citizens survived wars, flu epidemics, prohibition, and the Great Depression. But headlines in 1947 said Lee’s Summit was a town with never a boom nor a bank failure,” a feat that made everyone proud of their town. Starting in the mid-1950s, Lee’s Summit grew by leaps and bounds with a massive annexation bringing the total area to more than 44 square miles. Western Electric announced that it would build a major facility, needing housing and other amenities for more than 2,000 employees. DEVELOPMENT (1965-2014) Named “The Second Largest City in Missouri” in 1965, Lee’s Summit was one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, evolving into an “All American City.” Although there were growing pains with a rapidly growing city, the city fathers had the foresight to plan wisely and to prepare for growth. EMPOWERMENT (2015-BEYOND) The city’s growth brings us to nearly 66 square miles and a population close to 93,000. Numerous interstates and major highways criss-cross the city. One high school was not enough to keep up with the additional students, so the city now boasts multiple high schools. With the influx of commercial, retail and industrial development, residents can find virtually anything they need without leaving the city limits.
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LEE’S SUMMIT’S FIRST GATEWAY MONUMENT
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Lee’s Summit unveiled its first gateway monument in the fall of 2014, just in time for Lee’s Summit’s birthday.
The Lee’s Summit Missouri Municipal Building Authority (LSMMBA) served as the steward of dollars raised and initiated the contracting/building process for the construction of the monument.
The monument was built thanks to the generous support of Lee’s Summit’s highly engaged civic, business, and organizational communities. The monument is located just east of the View High Drive exit on I-470 and its tower reaches nearly 20-feet. It represents the quality and community identity of Lee’s Summit and can be viewed by travelers from approximately 1,000 feet away.
This project was jump-started by the Lee’s Summit Industrial Development Authority (IDA), specifically Vice President Rick Viar and board member Gene Gamber. In addition to leading the fundraising effort, the two encouraged IDA to match grant funds of $50,000 toward the construction of this monument, which cost an estimated $140,000.
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What is
Reaching the top is not about status. It’s about making a difference. About making a place a home. Some people think of their place of residence as another way of announcing they’ve arrived, as if they were being judged by their zip code. Those folks tend not to arrive in Lee’s Summit. Living here is not about achieving a certain status. It’s about a certain state of being. In Lee’s Summit, success means more than owning possessions. It means calling a community yours. Absolutely, surely, honestly, authentically, faithfully, truly yours. There’s just something inspiring about that kind of relationship. You hold it a little closer. You value it a little more. You put your heart and soul into making it all it can be. And in return you get the absolute sense of belonging that comes with being invested in something special. Far from an exclusive club, the Summit is a place where you can be casually comfortable in your own skin, and where newcomers are welcome to have as much of a voice in shaping the community as those who have lived here forever. It’s our heartfelt belief that whether you’ve come for a day of fun or a lifetime of living, Lee’s Summit is stronger for having you here.
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From this inclusive attitude a city has evolved, shaped by the hearts, hands and minds of citizens who’ve made it their own. And the results are truly impressive. Stateleading schools and a system of parks and trails ranked first in the nation. A lack of congestion, quiet streets and picturesque neighborhoods where people still understand what it means to be a neighbor. Eclectic shops and restaurants in a nationally award-winning downtown. More than 100 special events and festivals each year. And the creative fireworks that come when the arts meet science and business. Lee’s Summit rings true because authenticity is valued over perfection. And sincerity over status. Every sunrise brings new opportunities to make a difference in the day. For some that means helping a neighbor. For others, a second helping of pie. It might mean building a business in an environment known for its support or spending a weekend in a downtown known for its charm. Regardless, the road from your heart leads straight to our door. Above all, the Summit is an open, evolving place where not only can you say you’ve made it, but also that you’ve made it distinct. So whether you’re giving back, kicking back or getting back to business, Lee’s Summit is a place you can be sure of. A place that is absolutely, positively yours.
Destination Lee’s Summit Was the city of Lee’s Summit your destiny when you arrived here last year? Ten years ago? 25 years or generations ago?
environments and we ultimately become a product of them. Some stay within 100 miles of where we were raised. Others leave town. Some return. Others don’t.
Do we choose our destination or does it choose us when looking for a place to live, settle down, work and play?
What kind of living destination is Lee’s Summit? As population growth would tell us, it has become more and more attractive in our 150-year history.
Why was Lee’s Summit your destination?
Whether you are born here and are a lifelong resident, a transplant, or have come and gone, you have asked yourself: “Is Lee’s Summit my destination?”
Author Richard Florida, who penned “Who’s Your City?” argues that the creative-driven economy is making where we live one of the most vital decisions of our life. Florida has done extensive research on the creative class and his books offer some insight and even a little humorous “self help” on the choice we make. Why the places you choose matter and the “geography of happiness” are all keys to digging into our destination of choice. This notion of where we live as a factor in our happiness is interesting. As children, we have little choice in the matter. We’re born into our
As Lee’s Summit has grown in population, in the business sector and in the creative class, we’ve seen an increase in visual and performing arts, creativity in our schools and private ventures, in our parks and recreation system, in our neighborhoods. Where we choose to live says a lot about us. And what Lee’s Summit offers as a destination – from 1865, through the 1900s and into the 21st century and beyond – says a lot about it, too.
The 1976 City logo was designed by artist Jim Ware.
1976 City Logo In 1976, in celebration of the United States Bicentennial, the City of Lee’s Summit held a contest to find a new logo. Artist Jim Ware submitted the winning design. A bust of the city’s founder William B. Howard, facing west in the direction of the country’s growth, is prominent in the design. The wide dark furrows are reminiscent of the area’s rich soil, as the area was wellknown for its agriculture in the late 1800’s. The furrows also meet at point, representative of Lee’s Summit as the highest point between St. Louis and Leavenworth,
and above is a sunrise representing Lee’s Summit’s promising future. Across the furrows are railroad tracks, which significantly contributed to Lee’s Summit’s growth. The border has 110 stars in celebration of Lee’s Summit’s 110th birthday. The logo was used until 2013 when the community embarked on a new brand to support Lee’s Summit’s character. Now, the square “LS” logo and “Yours Truly” tag line are used throughout the community, from city vehicles to the entrances to our great City.
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How Well Do You Know Lee’s Summit? Listed in the first column are names of people important to Lee’s Summit. Some are known only by people in this area but a few are well-known throughout the country and even internationally. To the left of each name, write in the letter from the description that corresponds with that person’s name. 1
William B. Howard
a.
Entertainer and Elvis impersonator
2.
Todd M. George
b.
Grammy-winning jazz guitarist
3.
James A. Reed
c.
Rode with Quantrill
4.
Bernard C. Campbell
d.
Kansas City lumber baron, built world-renowned farm
5.
Harry S Truman
e.
Murdered in the area where train depot is now located
6.
Loula Long Combs
f.
City Manager
7.
Pat Metheny
g.
Author specializing in Civil War history
8.
James M. Ware
h.
Founder of Unity Village
9.
Dolly Breitenbaugh
i.
Painted mural in old City Hall, titled “Pastoral”
10.
Charles Fillmore
j.
Brigadier General
11.
Don Hale
k.
U.S. Senator from Missouri
12.
Dr. Pleasant Lea
l.
Historian and petitioned to change U.S. flag
13.
Matt Lewis
m.
Founding father of Lee’s Summit
14.
R.A. Long
n.
Longest term as Mayor
15.
William H. Colbern
o.
Designed City logo in 1976
16.
Cole Younger
p.
Mayor, Justice of the Peace and author of two books
17.
Karen Messerli
q.
Helped create R-7 District, long-time superintendent
18.
John H. Harris
r.
World-renowned equestrian
19.
Ted Gilien
s.
Announced County office candidacy at Arnold Hall site
20.
Steve Arbo
t.
Donated first park, site of Summit Waves water park
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Truly 150 LEE’S SUMMIT Sesquicentennial 1865-2015
Sesquicentennial Word Puzzle S
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BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION DEPOT DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN EMPOWERMENT ESTABLISHMENT HISTORY
HOWARD LONGVIEW RAILROAD SESQUICENTENNIAL SETTLEMENT STROTHER YOUNGER
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Providing Quality Veterinary Care since 1944 for Large and Small Animals
Two Lee's Summit locations available for your convenience Lee's Summit Animal Hospital 411 SW Market Lee's Summit, MO 64063 816-524-0464
810 NW Commerce Drive Lee's Summit, MO 64086 816-554-1870
www.leessummitanimalhospital.com
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LEE’S SUMMIT SNAPSHOT Lee’s Summit is the kind of place that has to be seen to be believed. What we’re most proud of is that we’re the kind of place where success is measured by the amount of time we get to spend with our family and friends, and not by the possessions we accumulate. Here’s a brief snapshot of what makes Lee’s Summit great in the year 2015. • Festivals & Special Events • Shopping • Historic Destinations • Recreation • Arts & Culture
in September in Historic Downtown Lee’s Summit. The fall festival includes a carnival, biergarten, Kid’s Street, arts and crafts booths, sports tent, three stages of continuous entertainment and authentic German meals and grilled brats. Summit Art Festival This annual festival is held in Historic Downtown Lee’s Summit. The festival features juried local and regional artists, showcasing works of art in watercolor, oil, graphite, acrylic, pottery, sculpture, photography, pastels, fiber, mixed media and more. It includes small music venues and a “Kidz Zone” interactive art area.
Festivals & Special Events
Flights of Fancy Kite Festival Flights of Fancy Kite Festival at MCC-Longview features hundreds of kites, even some that are larger than a twostory house! This event is known as the unofficial kick-off to spring and warm weather. Kids of all ages enjoy this event as they sit in lawn chairs, or sprawl out on blankets, on the beautiful campus of MCC-Longview. Downtown Days Downtown Days…Streets Alive! spans six blocks in the historic and award-winning Downtown Lee’s Summit central business district. Live entertainment, food vendors, a car show, carnival, an arts and culture area, the KCBSsanctioned Smokin’ on the Summit BBQ contest and much more are all part of the festivities. In addition to Downtown Days, Downtown Lee’s Su mmit Main Street hosts many events throughout the year, including the Emerald Isle St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Farmers Market, Fourth Friday, Boos & Barks Halloween Parade, Downtown Bunny Hop, Mayor’s Tree Lighting and more. Party in the Park The annual Party in the Park at Summit Waves combines summer fun with fundraising for the Legacy for Parks Foundation. Enjoy food, music and all of the amenities that Summit Waves has to offer. Summer Concerts Thousands of residents and visitors venture to the historic downtown district in the summer to listen to music and enjoy the company of friends. Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation’s Summer Concert Series takes place in City Hall Plaza, and Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street’s Music in the Park takes place every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day in Howard Station Park. Oktoberfest The Lee’s Summit Chamber’s annual fundraiser, Oktoberfest, is held each year during the last full weekend
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Shopping
Downtown Lee’s Summit Downtown Lee’s Summit, named a Great American Main Street in 2010, boasts locally owned specialty shops and an eclectic array of casual and fine dining. Downtown is a must for those looking for unique shopping and character galore! Amtrak service also is provided in Downtown Lee’s Summit. Summit Fair Summit Fair, a 550,000-square-foot, open-air lifestyle center serves the growing, affluent southeast Jackson County area of the Kansas City metro. The center opened in 2009. Summit Fair includes home furnishings stores, men’s and women’s fashion, casual eateries, sit-down restaurants and specialty retailers.
SummitWoods SummitWoods, a 750,000 square foot power center, one of the largest in the bi-state region, has national tenants such as Lowe’s, Office Depot, Kohl’s, Best Buy, Men’s Wearhouse and Super Target. The synergy between Summit Fair and SummitWoods, divided by 50 Highway, creates a shopping destination for southeast Jackson County.
early Lee’s Summit citizens and the Civil War guerrilla, Cole Younger; and the Howard Cemetery is a small 1800’s cemetery and was designated a local historic landmark.
Recreation
Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation manages more than 1,200 acres of developed park space and a wide range of recreational amenities. The city’s 27 parks range in size from mini-parks of one acre or less to Legacy Park, a nearly 700 acre park complete with a variety of sports venues, a five mile trail loop, 18 hole disc golf course, amphitheater, and Legacy Park Community Center, a 58,000 square foot community center containing a gymnasium, racquetball courts, workout facilities, community rooms, and an indoor swimming pool. The Gamber Community Center offers a fitness center and fitness memberships, classes, rental space and a bistro offering breakfast, lunch and snacks. Summit Waves is a family aquatic park with two slides, an action river, a six lane lap pool with diving boards and a water playground area featuring mini-slides, dump buckets and more.
Arts & Culture
Art Exhibits Quarterly artist receptions and exhibits at Lee’s Summit City Hall and the Gamber Community Center feature the work of a wide variety of local artists.
Historic Destinations
Lee’s Summit History Museum The new Lee’s Summit History Museum will open its doors in early 2015, in the historic 1939 Works Progress Administration (WPA) Post Office at 220 S.W. Main St. in downtown Lee’s Summit. Longview Mansion Built in 1914 by Kansas City millionaire lumberman Robert A. Long, the farm was the largest construction project of its kind in the United States. Robert A. Long and his famed daughter and horsewoman, Loula Long Combs, once greeted royalty, movie stars, and business magnates at the mansion. The farm once featured 51 buildings including the grand house, show horse arena and racetrack, horse and dairy barns, greenhouses, a school, and a church. Up to 200 people lived and worked on the farm during its prime. Historic Train Depot The historic Train Depot was built in 1905. The depot is in the heart of Downtown Lee’s Summit surrounded by unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Depot currently houses the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council. Lee’s Summit Historical Cemeteries Lee’s Summit has two historic cemeteries: the Lee’s Summit Historical Cemetery is the final resting place of
Lee’s Summit Symphony Each year, thousands of people enjoy the Lee’s Summit Symphony at five live concerts and educational programming for youth. The goal of the Symphony is to bring high quality symphonic music to more people through concerts, presentations and collaborations. The organization supports youth education and programs through partnerships with the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, MCC-Longview, and at the holiday and family concerts, which celebrate and educate children about classical music and dance. MCC –Longview Cultural Arts Center MCC-Longview Cultural Arts Center was designed to be an arts and entertainment venue as well as a community safety facility. In reality, it’s proven to be those things and more. The Center has hosted public community concerts, meetings, and professional art exhibits.
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Summit Art Summit Art encourages and promotes the visual arts, art education and humanities throughout Lee’s Summit and surrounding communities. Artist members interact with their artistic peers and learn how to improve their craft. Summit Art also provides public art education, through Got Art Gallery which is run by Summit Art, and strives to increase business and community participation in the arts through exhibits and public art.
Summit Theatre Group Summit Theatre Group was founded in the fall of 2011 by a diverse group of Lee’s Summit citizens that joined together to bring live community theatre back to our city after a 10 year hiatus. After having completed two successful seasons, the group continues to provide unique and original theatre experiences to audiences and participants alike.
Nominate Lee’s Summit’s Community Heroes for Truly 150 Commemorative Medallions As part of Lee’s Summit’s Sesquicentennial Celebration in 2015, the Truly 150 Steering Committee will honor 150 individuals for their distinguished contribution to the progress, culture, and general welfare of the Lee’s Summit community. Each honoree will receive a commemorative medallion. The first two medallions have already been awarded – one to Lee’s Summit Mayor Randy Rhoads and the Office of the Mayor, and the other to Lee’s Summit CARES Executive Director Roby Little. We need your help identifying more “Community Heroes.” If you know of anyone you believe deserves recognition, please fill out the nomination form at Truly150.com. Fill in as much contact information as you can for the nominee, and explain why you believe your nominee is worthy of this recognition. You may submit as many nominations as you like, and self-nominations are welcomed. Awards are limited to living honorees but the honoree need not currently live in Lee’s Summit. It is important to keep in mind that our community has far more than 150 people who have provided substantial contributions to the community and who are deserving of our gratitude. However, we are limiting this particular recognition to 150 people. All nominations will remain confidential.
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