Historian Lem Sheppard brings Kansas Jazz Legends to life in Fort Scott presentation

FORT SCOTT, Kans.-renowned musician and historian Lem Sheppard took attendees on a journey through Kansas' rich influence on the jazz genre, showcasing the state's significant contributions to American music history.

Lem Sheppard, known internationally for his expertise and musical talent, delved deep into historical records to illuminate the impact of Kansas on jazz. "Thinking I was going to find maybe ten or 15 things to say, I found a way to search the newspapers. And I was surprised to see how much was written in newspapers and then how many newspapers there were," Sheppard said, emphasizing the wealth of information he uncovered in his research.

The event, organized by the non-profit Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, spotlighted jazz musician James Reese Europe, a figure whose contributions to music have been recognized by the center in its ongoing efforts to honor historical figures whose stories are not widely known.

Sheppard's presentation wasn't just a lecture; it was a musical experience. He performed a variety of genres, including jazz, ragtime, and blues, connecting the musical heritage to local history and landmarks. "I relate it to people's hometown because I want to get them thinking, yeah, we've heard of Potters Grove or yeah, there used to be an opera house here," Sheppard said, aiming to make history tangible and relevant to the audience.

Adding to the celebration of jazz, the Fort Scott High School jazz band provided entertainment during the event's cake walk, reminding attendees of the vibrant future of jazz music in Kansas. "It feels like in my little corner in Kansas that we're the only jazz band. But it was like, no, there's like hundreds if not thousands," said Ben Phillips, a sophomore at Fort Scott High School, highlighting the widespread and enduring appeal of jazz music among the younger generation.

Through Sheppard's exploration of Kansas' jazz history and the lively performances that accompanied his presentation, attendees were reminded of the profound influence of local history on the national music scene and the importance of preserving and celebrating these cultural contributions.

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