Buford M. Watson, Jr. Sculpture Plaque - Lawrence, Kansas
Posted by: 
iconions
N 38° 58.303 W 095° 14.317
15S E 306066 N 4316021
This seven acre park is located between 6th and 8th Streets and Kentucky and Tennessee Streets in Lawrence, Kansas. The plaque is on the ground behind the plinth and bust of Buford M. Watson, Jr. on the east side of the north part of Watson Park.
Waymark Code: WM13XJ0
Location: Kansas, United States
Date Posted: 03/07/2021
Views: 2
My Commentary:
The plaque on the ground is attached to a concrete base behind the bust on the east side of the north part of Watson Park.. The plaque appears to be bronze. There is a small plaque behind the bust that has Buford M. Watson, Jr. name, City manager title, and the dates he served. The actual bust is somewhat larger than lifesize and shows Buford M. Watson, Jr. smiling. He is depicted with a collared shirt and tie.
(picture of Lawrence City Seal)
(this is who placed plaque and sculpture)
Buford M. Watson, Jr. was Lawrence City
Manager for nearly 20 years until his untimely
death on October 25, 1989. During his tenure,
accomplishments included the beautification
and revitalization of the downtown,
numerous public parks and recreation centers,
municipal airport, business and research parks,
and the new City Hall and Riverfront Plaza.
Watson was highly respected for his dedication and professionalism
and in 1986-87 served as president of the International City/County
Management Association. He also received numerous state and
national recognitions for his leadership and active and visionary
dedication in promoting better local government.
Buford M. Watson, Jr. Park, originally known as Central Park, was
officially changed by City Commission Proclamation on January 23,
1990, in recognition of Watson's vision for the future and for his love
of the City of Lawrence and its citizens.
"A man is never gone as long as there are those who remember him
with fondness...as long as his memory evokes a wistful smile."
Sculpture by Tom Wilkerson, 2003
- Marker Text