Artist building largest 'I Like Ike' button in Abilene

ABILENE (KSNT) - The cattle town of Abilene is embarking on another "world's largest" tourism project this year focused on honoring one of its most famous residents.

The Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau announced in a press release Thursday, May 2 it plans to construct the world's largest "I Like Ike" campaign button in honor of former President Dwight D. Eisenhower. A $22,000 Kansas Tourism Attraction Development grant will be used to fund the project along with donations collected from more than 200 sources.

Julie Roller-Weeks with the visitor's bureau says the inspiration for this project comes on the heels of the success of the new world's largest belt buckle constructed in Abilene in 2022. This new attraction is being constructed by local artist Jason Lahr of Fluters Creek Metal Works who was responsible for making the massive belt buckle.

“We frequently hear stories from visitors about their I Like I Buttons; there is such an affinity for the button," Roller-Weeks said. "This year also marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the 70th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, and an election year, making it the perfect time to roll out this project. This project will keep people talking about Abilene and bring more visitors downtown.”

To help fund the project, the visitor's bureau is offering a limited supply of numbered "I Like Ike" challenge coins at $34 apiece. These can be purchased at the Abilene Visitors Center at 201 NW Second or online using this link.

The button will be revealed to the public in June 2024. More information on this special event will be announced as it gets closer.

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