As Martin Pringle celebrates its 75th anniversary, the firm reflects on a legacy shaped by vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. What began as a chance partnership in the early 1950s has evolved into a respected, multi-office law firm serving clients across Kansas and Missouri and beyond.

The story begins with two young attorneys—Robert Martin and Kenneth Pringle—whose professional paths crossed during their early legal careers while at different firms. In 1951, a memorable trip to try a case in rural Kansas sparked a conversation that would change both of their futures. Soon after, Kenneth Pringle joined Robert Martin’s firm, marking the beginning of a partnership that would define the firm’s identity for decades.

By 1953, the firm had formally become Collins Hughes Martin & Pringle, operating out of Wichita’s Petroleum Building. In these early years, the firm’s work was heavily rooted in oil and gas law, reflecting the economic landscape of Kansas at the time. From the outset, the firm’s founders emphasized independence, integrity, and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal work—values that continue to guide the firm today.

The decades that followed brought steady growth and transformation. In 1964, the firm relocated to the newly constructed Wichita Plaza Building (125 N. Market), signaling its rising prominence in the legal community. The addition of talented attorneys throughout the late 1960s and 1970s strengthened the firm’s capabilities and expanded its reach. In 1972, a move to a newly constructed building in the Garvey Center (Page Court) marked the beginning of a 25-year chapter of stability and development.

Throughout these years, Martin Pringle attorneys contributed not only to their clients’ success but to the broader legal landscape. Founding partner Robert Martin, for example, became a pioneer in product liability law and played an influential role in shaping national legislation, including the General Aviation Revitalization Act. The firm also built a strong reputation across the country and the world in aviation law, representing major industry players such as Beech Aircraft (now Textron Aviation).

The firm’s growth accelerated in the 1990s as it expanded geographically to better serve its clients. In 1996, Martin Pringle opened an office in the Kansas City metro area, extending its physical footprint beyond Wichita. The following year, the firm relocated its Wichita headquarters to the then-Fourth Financial Center at Broadway and Douglas, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to downtown Wichita.

Entering the 21st century, the firm adopted its current name, Martin Pringle Oliver Wallace & Bauer, in 2002—a name that reflects both its history and its continued evolution. Expansion efforts continued, including growth in Overland Park and a Kansas City, Missouri office in 2013.

In 2019, the firm once again demonstrated its commitment to Wichita by moving into a newly constructed office, playing a part in the revitalization of the city's downtown. This move symbolized the firm’s dedication to growth while remaining deeply rooted in the communities it serves.

Over 75 years, Martin Pringle has experienced change, expansion, and transformation—but its core values have remained constant. Built on a foundation of integrity, collaboration, and client service, the firm continues to honor its legacy while looking confidently toward the future. As it celebrates this milestone anniversary, Martin Pringle remains committed to the principles that have guided it for generations—ready to serve clients and communities for decades to come.

The firm will be sharing stories and photos from its history on its Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages over the next several months. We hope you will follow along!