Who was Leo Beuerman?

Barely three feet tall, deaf, nearly blind, and unable to walk or speak clearly, Leo Beuerman was born in 1902 in rural Douglas County and died in 1974. His story of grit, determination, faith, and miracles is still well-known and loved in Lawrence.

A film about his life, produced in 1969 by Lawrence-based Centron Films, was nominated for an Academy Award and received a host of other honors as well.

Many remember the sight of Leo driving his ancient tractor from his home near Lakeview all the way to downtown Lawrence. Usually, he would park on Massachusetts Street in front of what is now Teller's Restaurant, and using an elaborately-designed system of pulleys and hooks, he would lower himself and his rickety cart to the sidewalk. Then, he would set up shop for the day selling pencils, pens, and magazine subscriptions.

Leo was a curiosity to some and an inspiration to many, and he made it clear that it was his faith in Jesus Christ that sustained him and gave his life purpose and joy. He said it best himself in the autobiography he painstakingly typed: "When I look back over my life... I can scarcely believe it is possible I did all this ...

"I am sure God had a hand in all of this. He even protected me when I did not believe in Him. I feel sure God helps people even in spite of themselves... I believe God helps people like a parent helps his child. Loving and forgiving is the best way to get along in life."

In addition, Leo wrote: "One of my greatest wishes always was that I may get into some very profitable business and use my surplus money and help others that are too poor to have something to eat most of the time ... through the teaching of Christ you will see that a helping hand for one's unfortunate brothers is a Christian's highest duty."

Leo’s dream and wishes are now fulfilled daily as clients come to The LEO Center and experience God’s grace and Christ’s message of hope, love, faith, and salvation.

"If anyone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need and refuses to help, how can God's love be in that person? Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other; let us really show it by our actions."

1 John 3:17-18

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