Pancakes in Kansas
For anyone who’s ever had to drive across the country, in either direction, the first thing that people notice about Kansas is that it’s long. It’s so long, in fact, that it’s the second, third, and fourth thing that people notice. Sometimes, that’s the only impression. A lot of corn fields, and some small towns. But for anyone who’s ever stopped in Kansas, it’s clear that this is one of the most pleasant places anyone could ever set foot.
There are very good reasons why people from the state have a reputation that precedes them, where courtesy and intelligence come with equal measure. Down to earth is a good description of almost every town, and even the big cities are down to earth in their own way. It makes it a great place to visit, and a great place for hotels. Kansas is a place of very comfortable surprises, and there are times of the year when it’s just delightful.
One of the most interesting community events here, or any place for that matter, happens on Fat Tuesday every year. In the olden days it was called Shrove Tuesday, for the shriving of sins to start off lent with a clean slate. In Liberal, Kansas, they still call it Shrove Tuesday, just as they do in Olney, England. On this day, both cities participate in an international competition, a Pancake Race .
On this day, over 500 years ago in Olney, so the story goes, a woman was making pancakes before church services. She was using all the fats available, since no one could cook with these during the lenten season. When she was almost done, the bells sounded, and she had to run to church to avoid being late. She grabbed the skilled, flipped it once, and carried it with her, pancake firmly in tow, and benefiting from the simmering heat.
This event’s what has inspired the people of Olney to hold the same race every year, and in 1950, Liberal, Kansas was invited to take part. It’s a competition between the cities, judged by video, and the people of both countries see it as a way to produce mutual understanding between nations. It’s also an excuse to have a great party. The times for running the 415 yards are recorded , and lists of all the years are kept. There are also talent shows, concerts, kids races, and lots and lots of pancakes.
No related posts.
August 31st, 2011 at 10:57 am
[...] all, but they consider them even less when they are traveling. The exception may be those who have summer homes in a specific place and spend several months there each year. Given that people on vacation are [...]