This collection contains drawings and designs done by John Lee during his time as a practicing architect, materials that relate to his time teaching at the University of Kansas, and his involvement in building restoration around downtown Lawrence, Kansas, particularly his involvment in the restoration of the Union Pacific Depot. This collection also includes materials from his bicycling hobby and influence in a cycling club on KU's campus.

This research paper describes the historic and architectural significance of the Union Pacific Railroad passenger depot at Lawrence, Kansas which prompted its restoration as an historic site. The paper was prepared by University of Kansas students Jennifer Garrett, Kelly Reynolds, and Lonnie Clark in February 1996 for a senior seminar in Architecture. It was submitted to the Kansas Historic Preservation Office as part of its Kansas Historic Resources Inventory.