From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for Nov. 16, 1986:

The upcoming closing of the Lee Apparel Co. manufacturing plant in Ottawa would mean a loss of $4.5 million a year to the local economy, according to Robert Whitworth, executive director of the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce. The loss would include the payroll for 350 workers, goods and services purchased locally, and utilities purchased from the city. A reduction in sales in the denim market had led to the announcement of the plant closing, which was to take place in mid-December. The building at 221 W. 17th, where Lee had operated the plant since 1949, was to be sold.