To the editor:

We would like to thank the residents of Lecompton, Douglas County, news media, chamber of commerce and county commission for their comments and suggestions of support for Constitution Hall in Lecompton as one of the “8 Wonders of Kansas.” The outcome shows what a great state Kansas is to live in and the many excellent sites we have to offer to tourists.

It is significant the ceremony for the “8 Wonders of Kansas” was held on the second floor of the Kansas state Capitol building. This location is near the mural of travelers coming to the governor’s mansion in Lecompton during the winter of 1856 and under the statue of President Eisenhower, whose parents met while students at Lane University and were married in Lecompton in 1885.

The Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area will feature many of the Civil War sites in the 41 counties in eastern Kansas and western Missouri and will have a major impact on the tourist industry in the region. The potential of an increase in revenue generated by this heritage area is unlimited.

Kansans should all take pride in our state because we have a number of nationally important historic sites, which played a major role in the history of the American Civil War, and many unique and beautiful natural wonders to offer tourists.

Paul Bahnmaier,
Lecompton