The Kansas City region is filled with historic sites that offer a fascinating journey into the past. From grand architectural landmarks to quaint small-town museums, there's a wealth of history waiting to be uncovered. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique day out, the KC area has a variety of compelling stories to explore. Each location reveals a unique narrative, showcasing the people, events, and culture that have shaped the history of our community. Check out the regional list below and start exploring today!
Leavenworth, KS: Did you know that the “Carnival King of Kansas” hails from Leavenworth? Charles Wallace Parker delighted countless crowds with his handmade amusements, but none so popular as the “Carry-Us-All” – his signature carousels made right here in the “First City of Kansas” and shipped around the world between 1911 and 1955. The C.W. Parker Carousel Museum (320 S. Esplanade Street) offers a perfectly preserved example, a 1913 Carry-Us-All with 31 hand-carved mounts restored by local artisans. Additional artifacts found here include the 1950s “Liberty” carousel and 19th-century primitive carousel (both for display only) and a X-A-1 band organ that pumps out the bombastic tunes typical to carnivals in the early 20th century. The museum welcomes visitors on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. A guided tour and ride on the 1913 carousel is $6 per person, or you can just ride the carousel for $1.50 per turn. VisitLeavenworthKS.com
Gardner, KS: Discover the rich history of Lanesfield Historic Site near Gardner, Kansas, where the past comes alive. Located at 18745 S. Dillie Rd, Edgerton, this preserved one-room schoolhouse offers a glimpse into frontier education in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore exhibits on pioneer life and experience hands-on activities that transport you back in time. Plan your visit today and learn more at https://jcprd.com/435/Lanesfield-Historic-Site!
Olathe, KS: Step back in time and explore the rich history of Olathe at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site. This unique destination offers a glimpse into the 1860s, where you can experience life as it was on a working farm and stagecoach stop. Visitors can tour the historic farmhouse, take a ride in a stagecoach, and witness live demonstrations of blacksmithing, farming, and cooking. The site hosts engaging educational programs and special events throughout the year, making it a perfect spot for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to connect with the past. Immerse yourself in the heritage of Olathe and discover the stories that shaped our community at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm.
Liberty, MO: Explore some of Liberty's history at the Historic Liberty Jail! Located at 216 N Main St, this museum is perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about Liberty. The jail, which served as the Clay County Jail from 1833-1856, held Joseph Smith, the first prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and other Mormon leaders in 1838. Arrested during the 1838 Mormon War, they faced treason charges but eventually escaped in 1839 with the help of a guard. Though the jail fell into disrepair and was torn down in 1856, the site was later purchased and preserved by the LDS Church, which opened a visitors center in 1963. The Liberty Jail is open year-round Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 - 5 p.m and is free to visit. Learn more:
Lenexa, KS: Explore pieces of Lenexa’s history at the complex which houses the Legler Barn, Train Depot, Strang Line Waiting Station, and a retired caboose. The Legler Barn was built in 1864 using limestone from a local quarry and originally stood at the corner of 95th and Quivira in Lenexa, Kansas. Today, the barn is now a museum that houses the city’s collection of historical artifacts, archival documents, and exhibits and is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am-4pm. Learn more: https://lenexahistoricalsociety.org/legler-barn/
Merriam, KS: Tucked away near a shopping center and a movie theater is a small historic plaque that pays tribute to those lost in a flight-training mission gone wrong 80 years ago. The B-24 Bomber crash of July 26, 1944 was meant to be a routine military training flight before the crew departed on deployment orders overseas. Instead, pilot Kenneth Keech lost control of the aircraft due to low altitude and crashed into homes and businesses in Merriam. Three crewmen were killed, three were injured, and three more civilians on the ground were also injured. Learn more about this historic event and details about the B-24 Bomber in this interview with KSHB-TV 41, or on pages 10-11 of the 2024 Merriam Visitors Guide. Visit the memorial marker at 55th Terrace along Antioch Road.
Kansas City, KS: Explore KCK's vibrant cultures on the KCK Legacy Trail. The self-guided audio tour features multiple journeys honoring KCK's diverse history and cultures including Latino, Eastern European, Black, Indigenous Peoples, and Modern Immigrant. Each journey will take you all around the city to different historical sites, neighborhoods and fascinating points of interest. Through your journey, you'll discover the people, stories and legacies of Kansas City, Kansas. The Eastern European and Latino Journeys have officially launched! Get started on the KCK Legacy Trail today: KCK Legacy Trail (visitkansascityks.com)
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