FAQ

  1. How did the Butler County Freedom Memorial get started?
  2. Are there residential requirements to qualify for participation in the Memorial Project?
  3. Is it still possible to purchase a brick for the memorial? If so, how do I go about it?
  4. How big is each brick and how much information may be included on each one?
  5. Can I purchase two or more bricks and include family members in one block?
  6. How do I submit a photo for inclusion on the website?
  7. How do I submit a change or correction to website information?
  8. How soon are bricks engraved?
  9. How soon will my loved one’s information appear on the website?
  10. Is it still possible to purchase a bench? If so, what is the procedure for doing this? What is the cost?
  11. How is the memorial being supported?
  12. How do I locate a specific name on the memorial website?
  13. Where is the memorial located?
Question 1.
How did the Butler County Freedom Memorial get started?
In 1999, Former State Representative Bill Mason, sensing a loss of appreciation for freedom won by the efforts of the United States Armed Forces, wanted to do something to honor our nation’s veterans and to promote patriotism. Find total story including names, dates, support, and extent of project at “Memorial History” link, this site.
Question 2.
Are there residential requirements to qualify for participation in the Memorial Project?
Those persons honored on the Memorial site are citizens of, former citizens of, or have a family connection to, Butler County, Kansas.
Question 3.
Is it still possible to purchase a brick for the memorial? If so, how do I go about it?
Brick purchases are currently on hold. However, you can be put on a waiting list until the purchasing opportunity is resumed. Complete the downloadable form found at the “Contact” link on this site. Send completed form to the address below.

Freedom Memorial
5550 Northwest 20th
El Dorado, KS 67042

Or send by e-mail to [email protected]

Note: This form may also be used to add photographs or biographical information for veterans already placed on the Eagle or Miss Liberty walks at the courthouse.
Question 4.
How big is each brick and how much information may be included on each one?
Each brick space is 8-inches wide by 4-inches deep. These spaces are scored-off in granite panels, allowing 32 names per panel. Each line can hold up to 14 characters including spaces. Be concise. It is important to include as much information as possible about the person you are honoring. Some examples:
MAL SHAFFER
COL US ARMY
VIETNAM 69-71
BAYARD SHIPLEY
GUY SHIPLEY
WWII – KOREA
KOPPENHAVER
BOB – MAJOR USAF – VIETNAM
Question 5.
Can I purchase two or more bricks and include family members in one block?
Yes, when sales resume. Brick sizes available are 8 x 4, 8 x 8, 8 x 12, and 8 x 16 inches. If you have questions about how to do this, request more information at [email protected]
Question 6.
How do I submit a photo for inclusion on the website?
You may submit a digital photograph by e-mailing it to [email protected]
Or, if you do not have a digital photograph, you may submit a picture for scanning to the address given in Question 3 above. Note: If you want the photograph returned, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. As an added protection, write your name and address on the back of the photo.
Question 7.
How do I submit a change or correction to website information?
E-mail information to [email protected]
Or mail the information to the address given in Question 3 above.
Question 8.
How soon are bricks engraved?
That date will be determined when brick sales are resumed.
Question 9.
How soon will my loved one’s information appear on the website?
Information submitted will be entered as soon as possible after it is received. Please visit and check the website.
Question 10.
Is it still possible to purchase a bench?
The purchase of a bench is currently on hold.
Question 11.
How is the memorial being supported?
The Butler County Commission has authorized maintenance of the memorial in its budget. The memorial is being financially supported by charitable gifts and volunteer efforts. Scenic El Dorado/ Freedom Memorial is a 501c3 tax exempt organization. Private donations are encouraged in order to enhance and improve this wonderful tribute to our veterans. Your tax exempt donation is payable to Scenic El Dorado/Freedom Memorial. Send to 5555 North 20th, El Dorado, KS 67042.
Question 12.
How do I locate a specific name on the memorial website?
On the web site Home Page, click on the “Military Veterans” link and type the person’s name into the search box. There may be several names listed. Scroll to find your veteran’s name and click on it.
Question 13.
Where is the memorial located?
The memorial is located on the front lawn of the Butler County Courthouse, 205 West Central, El Dorado.

When entering El Dorado from the West—by way of either Highway 254 or the Kansas Turnpike—you will be driving on Central Avenue. Keep going until you reach the downtown area. The Courthouse will be on your right.

When coming from the East—on Highway 54—remain on Central Avenue for five or six blocks. The Courthouse will be one block West of Main Street, on your left.

When coming from the North—on Highway 77—you will be driving into El Dorado on Main Street. Keep going until you reach Central Avenue. Turn right. The Courthouse is one block West of Main Street, on your left.

When coming from the South—on Highway 77—you will be driving into El Dorado on Main Street. Keep going until you reach Central Avenue. Turn left. The Courthouse is one block West of Main Street, on your left.