William Lee Larrabee
Lee Larrabee was a man of many talents, but he is best known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to public service. As the founder of several successful companies, including the Star Lumber Company, Citizens State Bank, Southwest Fair Association, Security Elevator Company, and KSCB Radio, Lee was a true innovator and a tireless worker. He believed in the power of hard work and determination, and he was always looking for new ways to improve the lives of those around him. In addition to his business ventures, Lee was appointed chairman to the first Forestry, Fish and Game Commission in Kansas and served for a quarter century. His contributions to the commission helped to preserve and protect the natural resources of Kansas for future generations.
RJ Leete
RJ. Leete’s contribution to the Liberal, Kansas community is truly unique and inspiring. He brought the International Pancake Day Races to the town, which has become a tradition that unites people in friendship, peace, and healthy competition. The story began in 1950 when a photograph of women from Olney, England, appeared in a national magazine featuring them running through the streets with frying pans and pancakes in hand. This image caught the attention of the Jaycees, a civic organization in Liberal, Kansas, and their president, R.J. Leete. After learning about the history of the tradition, R.J. Leete wrote to the Reverend Ronald Collins, the vicar of Olney and supervisor of the race, and challenged their women to a race with Liberal housewives. The challenge was quickly accepted, and the first International Pancake Day race took place only 40 days later on February 21, 1950. Since then, the race has become an annual event that brings people from all over the world together to celebrate tradition, friendship, and competition. It is truly a testament to the power of community and the impact that one person can have on the world around them.
Seymour S. Rogers
The story of Mr. S.S. Rogers, the first homesteader in what would later become Liberal, Kansas, is a testament to the kindness and generosity of the human spirit. In the year 1872, when the area was still largely undeveloped and water was scarce, Mr. Rogers would always give his water free of charge to any passing traveler in need. This was a time when many people would charge even a small amount for water, making Mr. Rogers’ actions all the more remarkable. It is said that, upon receiving Mr. Rogers’ free water, many travelers would express their gratitude by saying “that’s mighty Liberal of you.” This phrase would eventually become associated with the town of Liberal itself and was likely the inspiration for its name. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness and generosity, even in the face of difficult circumstances. Mr. Rogers’ selfless actions helped to create a culture of generosity and openness that continues to define our town to this day.
The Larrabee Family Home has been moved, and is now home to the Seward County Historical Society and Coronado Museum.