Scouts help Lady Liberty get a new home

Little Sister of Liberty was restored to her former glory Saturday as part of the grand opening of the Midwest Genealogy Center in Independence.

The Little Sister was originally dedicated in 1950 as part of the 40th anniversary of Boy Scouting, and five men that attended that dedication were able to see the rededication. Mayor Don Reimal, Charles Cobb, Tom Newhard, Mac Mcleod, and Dr. Robert Clothier were Scouts and were part of a group of 900 that included H. Roe Bartle.

Jack H. Whittaker, the grandson of Jack F. Whitaker, was a special guest at the gathering. The senior Whitaker started a program that resulted in the casting of over 200 of these statues to emphasize Scouting’s theme “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty.” Jack F. Whittaker was prominent in both local as well as national Scouting and was awarded the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope, and the Silver Buffalo which is Scouting’s highest commendation.

Scouts from Pack and Troop 865 assisted with the unveiling. A time capsule was placed in the base of the statue by Gloria Smith, the Chairman of the Beautification Commission and organizer of the statues rehabilitation. The capsule contains news clippings of the 1950 ceremony, newspaper stories of the rededication, and Scouting memorabilia.