In 1865, William Howard founded the Town of Strother. Just three years later, the name changed into the town of Lee’s Summit. The “Summit” piece of the town received its name because a portion of the town’s elevation is the highest point on the railroad between Kansas City and Saint Louis. There is uncertainty as to where the name “Lee’s” came from. Like the neighboring town of Independence, Lee’s Summit had a famous resident. Cole Younger was credited with saving some of the homes that belonged to William Howard. Younger joined Quantrill’s raiders along with Frank & Jesse James, but was arrested after a bank robbery attempt in Minnesota. After 25 years in jail, he was paroled in 1901. In 1904, he returned to Lee’s Summit and lived out the rest of his life as a model citizen. In 1915, Mr. R.A. Long, a prominent Kansas City lumberman, began building his dream by constructing Longview Farm. He purchased 1700 acres in southeast Lee’s Summit. When completed it included five major barn systems and 42 buildings. Longview Farms became known internationally for its horses, livestock and white rail fences. It was one of about three dozen showplace type farms. Much of the original structures still stand today. It’s also the home of one of the Metropolitan Community Colleges. Along with Lee’s Summits’ rich history, Lee’s Summit also has an extensive array of amenities to offer residents and visitors alike. They include multiple community centers, an amphitheater, ice rink, water park, two dog parks and a roller rink. Their city parks offer a wide variety of amenities including a fishing dock, disc golf, trails, practice fields for baseball, softball and soccer, playgrounds, skate park, community garden, tennis, pickleball volleyball and basketball courts. There are two farmers markets in Lee’s Summit that offer a wide variety of locally grown produce and other great items. Between April and August each year, Fourth Fridays Art Walks are held in the downtown area. Lee’s Summit is located approximately 30 minutes southeast of Kansas City. Come and experience Lee’s Summit today.

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