For anyone moving to Lawrence, Kansas, it is reassuring to know that this mid-western treasure offers a small-town feel without having to sacrifice any important priorities. Located almost right in the middle of the U.S., Lawrence is the sixth largest city in Kansas with its population of about 90,000.
Even though it is not a big city, the community of Lawrence offers beautiful scenery, great historical explorations, incredible arts and entertainment and a variety of delicious restaurants. Also, there is a mixture of styles when it comes to picking a neighborhood to send the moving company to, whether the destination is newer, older or rural. It won't take long to feel at home. Temperatures range from 20s in the winter to the 90s in the summer, with an average of 40 inches of precipitation throughout the year. Because it is a college town - University of Kansas – it touts some great athletic teams.
Economy:
Educational services and healthcare top the list of industries in Lawrence, with the common occupations being in management, professional and sales. The unemployment rate maintains a percentage quite a bit below the national rate, but there has been a decrease in the number of jobs since 2009. Income potential has not kept up with the cost of living in the over the last decade. Hallmark Cards and Vangent are two of the largest employers in the Lawrence.
History:
Lawrence is named after Amos Lawrence, the man who financed abolitionists who moved into the Kansas Territory around 1854 hoping to stop the area from becoming pro-slavery. Rumor has it that the city might have been settled mostly for political reasons. It was also part of the Underground Railroad, assisting slaves to their freedom. All of the activities surrounding the slavery issue made for some bloody confrontations, one of them in 1863 that resulted in having to rebuild the town after the battle. This area saw many travelers heading west on the Oregon and Santa Fe trails; it was a useful hub to those pioneers. To this day, it is possible to witness wagon ruts here and there. In 1943, the city was the scene for internment camps filled with war prisoners who were used for labor since so many American men were away fighting.
Tourism:
One of the most prominent characteristics of Lawrence is the art. It was even named on the list of "100 Best Small Art Towns in America," by author John Villani. National artists show their work in exhibitions at the Downtown Lawrence Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition. The Lawrence Arts Center also offers classes, performances and exhibitions. Those are just two of the many galleries and art centers. The KU Natural History Museum provides a great history of the area's landscape and animal life. Downtown Lawrence lights up for nightlife with a wonderful historical cityscape and great restaurants.