Discover the Legacy: Kansas City Honors America’s First Black Female Millionaire with Street Naming

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kansas City is paying tribute to a trailblazing figure in American history by renaming a street to honor the nation’s first Black female millionaire.

In a unanimous decision on Thursday, the Kansas City Council passed an ordinance to rename the stretch of Euclid Avenue between 11th and 12th Streets as “Sarah Rector Way.” This new designation celebrates the legacy of Sarah Rector, whose remarkable life story continues to inspire.

The newly named street is conveniently located next to the historic Rector Mansion, situated at 2000 E. 12th Street, further cementing her presence in the community she once called home.

“Sarah Rector’s story is one of resilience, prosperity, and breaking barriers,” remarked Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley, the driving force behind the ordinance. Her words echo the admiration and respect that many hold for Rector’s achievements.

“By designating this street in her honor, we ensure that her legacy remains visible in the community she called home. Her story deserves to be told and celebrated for generations to come.”

Back in 2021, a $75,000 capital grant from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund was given out to help restore the Rector Mansion.

Rector became a millionaire after oil was drilled on her land. It was given as part of the Dawes Allotment Act of 1887. Her land was located in Glenpool, Oklahoma, about 60 miles from her family’s home.

She moved to Kansas City in the 1920s, where she lived until later in life.

Multiple family members of Rector were there to receive the street signs dedicated to her.

“We, the grandchildren of Sarah Rector, are honored by the city’s decision to name a street after our grandmother, Sarah Rector. This recognition affirms her legacy as a creek Freedman and trailblazer, whose story deserves to be seen and remembered,” said Sarah Campbell, granddaughter of Sarah Rector.

“Sarah Rector Way is more than a name, it’s a step toward visibility and truth. We would like to thank everyone who helped make this possible.” 

The new street comes a week before the Kansas City premiere of a feature film called “Sarah’s Oil,” debuting on Oct. 29. The movie is about Rector’s life and was directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh.

The new street sign will be installed in the next few days, along a historic marker at the Rector Mansion.