Before Travis, a Big Deal in KC Was Another Kelce

The Forgotten Kelce: A Hidden Chapter in Kansas City History

In recent years, the name Travis Kelce has become synonymous with football and media attention. However, there was another prominent Kelce in Kansas City whose story is largely forgotten today. This man, L. Russell Kelce, once had a significant impact on the city's development, but his legacy has faded over time.

The story of this lesser-known Kelce is now being brought to light through a new video series by the Star called "The Other Kelce." It highlights an intriguing tale that began with a collection of old home movies discovered by Joe Tomelleri, a scientific illustrator and film enthusiast. These rare 16mm films from the 1920s offer a unique glimpse into Kansas City’s past, capturing moments that have long since disappeared.

Tomelleri often purchases vintage films online without knowing their exact content. One such purchase led to an unexpected discovery. While watching a reel he thought might be from Virginia, he noticed a truck with the words “Merryvale Farm, Grandview, Missouri.” This clue sparked a journey of research that uncovered a fascinating piece of local history.

Through his investigations, Tomelleri learned that the Merryvale Farm was located south of Martin City, near Holmes Road on the old Highway 150. The farm eventually became the center of a powerful business empire built by L. Russell Kelce. Unlike typical ranchers, Kelce had a background as a coal miner from Pittsburg, Kansas. He started working in mines at just 12 years old and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a mine supervisor at age 19.

After serving in World War I, Kelce used his expertise in mining to enter the energy sector. His career took him first to Tulsa and then to Kansas City in 1932, where he settled with his wife, Gladys, and their son, Robert. During this time, he co-founded Sinclair Coal, which later merged with Peabody Coal, making Kelce its president.

Kelce was not only a successful businessman but also a well-connected figure in Kansas City. Newspaper accounts suggest that he was deeply involved in various aspects of the city's growth. He was known for his accessibility, even answering every phone call personally. His passion for travel extended beyond business, as he documented trips to places like Yellowstone National Park, Mexico, Mackinac Island, and even owned an island in Canada for hunting and fishing excursions.

His personal life was equally rich. Home movies from 1947 show family gatherings, livestock auctions, and even football games played on the lawn with his teenage son, Robert. These clips capture a vibrant, active lifestyle that contrasted sharply with the tragic end of his life. Kelce died in 1957 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy that was worth an estimated $100 million at the time.

Despite his contributions, very little physical evidence of Kelce’s presence remains in Kansas City today. However, some traces of his influence can still be found. Pittsburg State University honors his name with the Kelce Planetarium, which opened in 1964, and the Kelce College of Business, named after his wife, Gladys.

The original Merryvale Farm, which once stood as a symbol of his success, has largely vanished. The grand English-style home and outbuildings were demolished, and only a few maple trees remain as a reminder of the estate’s former grandeur.

Thanks to Tomelleri’s efforts and the digitization work done by his son, Sam, these historical films are now accessible to the public. They provide a rare opportunity to witness the lives of people from nearly a century ago, including the enigmatic L. Russell Kelce.

For those interested in exploring more of Kansas City’s hidden history, there are other intriguing stories waiting to be uncovered. From the mechanized baseball assistant known as Harvey to the rocket ship on TWA’s headquarters, the city is filled with fascinating tales that continue to captivate locals and visitors alike.