Velma and Lester Rathbun Ledgers

Lester and Velma Rathbun were a married couple that lived on a farm about 6 miles northwest of Dodge City, Kansas.

Lester Rathbun was born on 07-08-1902 near Conway, Kansas. His parents were Izella and Samantha Ring Rathbun. Lester spent his early years in the Conway and Windom areas.

Velma Enlow Rathbun was born on 12-05-1910 at Macksville, Kansas. Her parents were Mr. And Mrs. Ottis M. Enlow. As a young girl, Velma moved with her family to the Dodge City area. She graduated from Dodge City High School and taught school herself in the rural schools nearby for a couple of years.

Lester and Velma married on 12-31-1933 in Dodge City. Lester was employed by a bridge contractor and he participated in the construction of many bridges during the early years of their marriage. The nature of the business obliged the couple to move frequently. Some of the places they lived include Newton, Ulysses, Pawnee Rock, Pratt, and Jetmore, all in Kansas.

They moved to a farm in Ford County, about 6 miles northwest of Dodge City. They operated the farm and raised 2 sons while living there. For 27 years, Lester also worked at the McKinley-Winter Livestock Auction in addition to his farm work. The McKinley-Winter sale barn employed many area farmers on a part-time basis, they worked the yards on sale days. The busy season at the auction coincided with the slow season on the farm, and the practice served both parties well.

Velma preceded Lester in death. She died on 11-22-1971 while in the Trinity Hospital in Dodge City. Lester remained on the farm, living there until moving into town (Dodge City). That same year he retired from active farming and held a farm sale to dispose of the equipment no longer needed. Lester outlived Velma by about 16 years. He passed on 01-11-1988.