The Heartbeat of Kansas: Lawrence

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pleez]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [pahr-dn]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fine. how 'bout yuh]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI'm lost
  [ah'm lawst]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan ah see the men-yoo]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [ah'm ve-jeh-te-ree-yun]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lawst]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ah'm lawst]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [ah'm sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
• That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [thats pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do a deal?
  [kan yuh do a deel]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show me (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a ticket to]

Lawrence, Kansas, was founded in 1854 by the New England Emigrant Aid Company, an organization that aimed to populate Kansas with anti-slavery settlers. The city's early establishment was part of the larger conflict between pro-slavery and anti-slavery forces in the United States. Named after Amos Adams Lawrence, a prominent abolitionist, the city quickly became a stronghold for the Free State movement.

The period known as 'Bleeding Kansas' from 1854 to 1861 was marked by violent confrontations between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions. Lawrence was a focal point in this conflict, enduring multiple attacks from pro-slavery forces. Most notably, in 1856, Sheriff Samuel J. Jones led a raid that resulted in the burning of the Free State Hotel and other significant buildings, symbolizing the intense struggle over Kansas' future.

One of the most devastating events in Lawrence's history occurred on August 21, 1863. William Quantrill and his band of Confederate guerrillas attacked the city, killing around 150 men and boys and burning much of the town. The raid was in retaliation for the Union's treatment of Confederate sympathizers in Missouri and left a lasting scar on the community. Despite the destruction, Lawrence rebuilt and continued to grow in the years following the Civil War.

The University of Kansas (KU) was established in 1865, just two years after Quantrill’s Raid, marking a period of recovery and growth for the city. The university became a central cultural and intellectual hub, contributing significantly to the development of Lawrence. Over the years, KU has grown into a major public research university, enriching the city's cultural landscape with its academic programs, museums, and athletic events.

Lawrence played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The city was the site of numerous protests and demonstrations, particularly centered around the University of Kansas. Activists in Lawrence fought for desegregation and equal rights, leading to significant changes in local policies and contributing to the national movement for racial equality.

Today, Lawrence is known for its vibrant cultural scene, characterized by a rich blend of music, arts, and community events. The historic downtown area, with its preserved 19th-century buildings, hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Annual events, such as the Lawrence Busker Festival and the Free State Festival, celebrate the city's artistic spirit and draw visitors from across the region.

Lawrence, Kansas is conveniently located in the northeastern part of the state. The closest major airport is Kansas City International Airport (MCI), approximately 50 miles to the east. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach Lawrence. Amtrak also provides train services to Lawrence via the Southwest Chief route, making it accessible by rail. For those driving, Lawrence is situated along Interstate 70, making it easily reachable by car.

Lawrence offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The Lawrence Transit System, known as 'The T,' provides bus services throughout the city, including routes to the University of Kansas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bike; Lawrence is a bike-friendly city with numerous trails and bike lanes. Walking is another excellent option, particularly in the downtown area, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

The currency used in Lawrence, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and many offer withdrawal services for international cards. While card payments are common, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.

Lawrence is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less-populated areas, particularly in some parts of East Lawrence or near the University of Kansas campus after dark. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and be cautious when using ATMs at night. Overall, the city is friendly and welcoming, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Lawrence Memorial Hospital is the main medical facility in the city and provides comprehensive emergency care. For minor health issues, several pharmacies are available throughout the city. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergency issues, the Lawrence Police Department and local fire stations are available to assist.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably. Lawrence is a college town with a relaxed atmosphere. Don't wear offensive or overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and places of worship. Don't interrupt services or take photos without permission. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a bus pass for The T. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Don't be overly formal; a handshake is sufficient for most interactions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Kansas cuisine and enjoy the vibrant food scene. Don't forget to tip; 15-20% is customary for good service.

To experience Lawrence like a local, make sure to visit the downtown area, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. Attend a University of Kansas basketball game at Allen Fieldhouse if you can; the atmosphere is electric. Explore the local art scene at the Lawrence Arts Center and the Spencer Museum of Art. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Clinton State Park offers excellent hiking, biking, and water activities. Don't miss the local farmers' market held on Saturdays, where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods.