It seems like Kansas mostly gets credit for being the home of Dorothy and Toto. I’m going to try to give you a bigger list of some famous people who have come out of Kansas.

Let’s start with Walter Chrysler. Yes sir that name may ring a bell as he is the founding father of the Chrysler Corporation. He was born April 2, 1875 in Wamego, Kansas. He grew up in Ellis, Kansas where he began his work as a machinist working on the railroads. His dealings in automobiles didn’t even begin until 1911! He died in 1940 at the age of 65.

Mr. Bob Dole is next on our list. He was born on July 22, 1923 in Russell, Kansas. His parents ran a creamery. One of the odd jobs Bob held while he was growing up was as a soda jerk in the drug store. Of course this was all before we knew him as a United States Senator who ran, unsuccessfully, several times for a spot in the White House.

Miss Amelia Earhart was born on July 24, 1897 in Atchison, Kansas. She was called Amy by her family. Miss Earhart gained her notoriety as being one of the first aviation pioneers. She was the first to fly across the Atlantic Ocean solo. On top of this she was awarded many awards and wrote quite a few books on her flying adventures. Miss Earhart was declared missing on July 2, 1937 over the Pacific Ocean.

The famous comedian and film maker Buster Keaton was born in Piqua, Kansas. He was born Joseph Frank Keaton VI on October 4, 1895. He was best known for the work he did in his silent films. He was nicknamed “the Great Stone Face” because of his consistent stoic expression. He died in 1966 at the age of 70.

More recently Kansas has cranked out a couple famous musicians. First born was Melissa Etheridge. She was born May 29, 1961 in Leavenworth, Kansas. She tours all over the country performing her songs.

Martina McBride was born Martina Schiff on July 22, 1966. She was born in Medicine Lodge, Kansas. She was raised in a tiny town nearby called Sharon, Kansas. Mrs. McBride is currently a country singer and songwriter.

Loads of folks are being born in Kansas every day. Just thought you’d like to hear about the history of some of the ones who’ve made it into the spotlight!