University of Kansas - Jayhawker Yearbook (Lawrence, KS)

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LAWRENCE The history of Lawrence is in large part the history of Kansas, for it was here that many of the state's early lead- ers were developed, including the first governor and one of the state's first senators. Lawrence was founded seven years before Kansas became a state. In 1854, a group of hardy New Englanders who believed firmly in religion and freedom pooled re- sources and founded the town company. They built a church before any houses were erected. Most new towns of the era were named after an Indian tribe or local land- mark. Local settlers, however, showed respect to a Boston merchant and benefactor by naming their town after Amos Lawrence. Lawrence never visited the town, but supplied funds and encouragement for some of the set- tlers. Much Civil War history surrounds the city, which was a headquarters for the 'Free Settlement' forces. Border raiders fought back and forth between Kansas and Mis- souri, and Lawrence was a frequent scene of trouble. On Aug. 21, 1863, Lawrence was attacked by Quan- trill's border raiders and 150 Lawrence men were killed. lt was Amos Lawrence who insisted a college be founded here and contributed money to support it. Upon the foundation of that church-related school was built the first University building. The University was located here in 1865 by an act of the State legislature. With its opening in 1866, the tradi- tion of cooperation and friendship between school and city was begun. -from Insight, the Student Handbook 6 i

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