The Wichita music scene is mourning the loss of Jim Kirby, the visionary founder of Kirby’s Beer Store. Kirby, 82, passed away on December 19th, leaving behind a legacy etched into the city’s cultural fabric.
Kirby established the iconic venue near Wichita State University in 1972, quickly becoming a hub for independent music and a cornerstone of Wichita’s counterculture. According to social media announcements, Kirby shared the news of his passing shortly before Christmas.
“Jim had a dream of opening a bar, and he just relentlessly pursued it,” recalled Patrick O’Connor, who served as Kirby’s mailman for many years. “It was always loud, full of incredible music, and a genuinely welcoming place. I definitely lost a bit of hearing there, but it was worth it.”
Kirby’s Beer Store, under his stewardship, nurtured countless local musicians, providing a stage for rising indie acts and fostering a vibrant community. Madi Laughlin, vocalist for the acclaimed Wichita indie fem-folk band Sunblush, eloquently captured Kirby’s impact. “Kirby’s maintains that incredible counterculture energy it started with, while simultaneously creating an unbelievably loving environment,” she stated. “So many Wichita musicians have graced that stage—it’s a truly special place.”
Known for its unpretentious atmosphere and dedication to showcasing local talent, Kirby’s Beer Store remains a treasured landmark. Details regarding a memorial event are currently being finalized, but the outpouring of love and remembrance from the Wichita community speaks volumes about the profound impact Jim Kirby had on the city’s musical landscape. His foresight and unwavering commitment to fostering creativity will be deeply missed.
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