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History of Liberal, Kansas, USA
Journey back in time to Liberal, Kansas, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Liberal, Kansas, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Liberal
Liberal, Seward, Kansas, USA
Early settler S. S. Rogers built the first house in what would become Liberal in 1872. Rogers became famous in the region for giving water to weary travelers. Reportedly, Liberal gained its name from the common response to his acts of kindness, "That's very liberal of you." In 1885 Rogers built a general store, and with it came an official U.S. Post Office. Rogers named the post office 'Liberal'. After the railroad was built close by, a plan for the town site was created in 1888. A year later the population was around 800.
Early settler S. S. Rogers built the first house in what would become Liberal in 1872. Rogers became famous in the region for giving water to weary travelers. Reportedly, Liberal gained its name from the common response to his acts of kindness, "That's very liberal of you." In 1885 Rogers built a general store, and with it came an official U.S. Post Office. Rogers named the post office 'Liberal'. After the railroad was built close by, a plan for the town site was created in 1888. A year later the population was around 800.
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VINTAGE LIBERAL
Liberal Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Liberal, Kansas, USA
Postcard
U.S. Post Office
Liberal, Kansas, USA
Postcard
Harrel Motel
Liberal, Kansas, USA
Postcard
Warren Hotel
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to LIBERAL
KANSAS Tornado Chaser and BBQ Master Mug
Embrace your Kansas pride with our whimsical "I'm from Kansas! That explains a lot about my love for tornado chasing and my skill in grilling the perfect BBQ ribs" mug. Perfect for morning coffee or evening tea, this ceramic mug combines humor and state pride in one delightful package.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Liberal: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Liberal through the years.
1872 - Liberal is settled
1916
Liberal, a banking city, capital of Seward co., Kan., on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific R., 33 miles WSW. of Meade. Pop. in 1900, 420.
1949 - February 20 - 1st International Pancake Race held (Liberal Ks)
1957 - LIBERAL GAS COMPRESSOR BLAST KILLS.
Liberal, Kas., Jan. 17 (AP) - An explosion flashed through a big pipeline compressor station here in the southwest corner of Kansas Wednesday, killing three workmen and threatening natural gas supplies as far east as Detroit.
Officials of Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Co. said they hoped to restore deliveries to 70 per cent of normal today.
They indicated this would mean no curtailment of gas for household use along Panhandle Eastern's system in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.
Industrial users in the six states were cut off immediately.
The whole area presently is in the grip of a cold wave.
There were about 25 men in the plant. Fourteen were burned and battered by the explosion. Three were reported in critical condition.
Six others were in a hospital and five were released after treatment.
The blast blew the metal roof and sides off the main compressor building, 364 by 68 feet. It wrecked the engines and compressors. An adjoining machine shop...
Read more
Officials of Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Co. said they hoped to restore deliveries to 70 per cent of normal today.
They indicated this would mean no curtailment of gas for household use along Panhandle Eastern's system in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.
Industrial users in the six states were cut off immediately.
The whole area presently is in the grip of a cold wave.
There were about 25 men in the plant. Fourteen were burned and battered by the explosion. Three were reported in critical condition.
Six others were in a hospital and five were released after treatment.
The blast blew the metal roof and sides off the main compressor building, 364 by 68 feet. It wrecked the engines and compressors. An adjoining machine shop...
Liberal, Kansas may not be the largest town, but it's got its own charm and plenty of things to see and do. Here's a mix of local favorites and some hidden gems that you might want to check out:
Dorothy's House and the Land of Oz:
You can't visit Liberal without paying homage to the Wizard of Oz. Dorothy's House and the Land of Oz offer a nostalgic trip through this classic tale. Walk the yellow brick road and relive the magic.
Mid-America Air Museum:
For aviation enthusiasts, the Mid-America Air Museum is a must-visit. It houses an impressive collection of over 100 aircraft, making it one of the largest air museums in the United States.
Liberal Rock Island Depot:
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Liberal Rock Island Depot. This historic train depot has been lovingly restored and now serves as a museum, showcasing the town's railway history.
Baker Arts Center:
Art lovers should head to the Baker Arts Center, where you can explore a variety of exhibits featuring local and regional artists. The center also hosts workshops and events throughout the year.
Adventure Bay Water Park:
If you're visiting during the warmer months, cool off at...
Read more
You can't visit Liberal without paying homage to the Wizard of Oz. Dorothy's House and the Land of Oz offer a nostalgic trip through this classic tale. Walk the yellow brick road and relive the magic.
Mid-America Air Museum:
For aviation enthusiasts, the Mid-America Air Museum is a must-visit. It houses an impressive collection of over 100 aircraft, making it one of the largest air museums in the United States.
Liberal Rock Island Depot:
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Liberal Rock Island Depot. This historic train depot has been lovingly restored and now serves as a museum, showcasing the town's railway history.
Baker Arts Center:
Art lovers should head to the Baker Arts Center, where you can explore a variety of exhibits featuring local and regional artists. The center also hosts workshops and events throughout the year.
Adventure Bay Water Park:
If you're visiting during the warmer months, cool off at...
GENEALOGY IN LIBERAL
Discover YOUR Roots: Liberal Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Liberal, Kansas, USA
We currently have information about 7 ancestors who were born or died in Liberal.
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Updated: 10/13/2023 9:29:07 AM
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