Wagons, pioneers,
soldiers, politicians, frontier families and all that jazz. All of these words
help describe the events and people that make Jackson County, Missouri, one of
the most historic counties in America.
Jackson County was established in 1826, just five years after Missouri gained
statehood, and immediately found itself in the path of the great westward
migration. For those headed west, they were bound to pass through Jackson
County for one main reason—its location.
Independence flourished as the chief outfitting point and trail head for three
major trails: the Santa Fe Trail, the Oregon Trail, and the California Trail. Thousands
traveled across Jackson County on these paths to fulfill their dreams of
getting to the western country. Kansas City evolved early as a key commercial
center for the Central Plains and found itself growing rapidly as riverboats
made their way through the Midwest.
The scars of the Civil War were also recorded in Jackson County history as
fierce battles raged throughout the divided country. Order Number Eleven
destroyed antebellum mansions and the last of a southern lifestyle.
Determined leadership helped Kansas city boom into the 20th Century. In the
1920's and 1930's, the powerful leadership of Tom Pendergast drew national
attention to Jackson County politics. In 1945, Missouri's native son, Harry S.
Truman, brought pride to the people of Jackson County when he became the 33rd
President of the United States. At the end of his term, Truman came back to
Jackson County to retire and build his famous library, affectionately known
today as, "The Truman."
The pride of Jackson County is reflected in the preservation of its history.
Taking the lead in this effort is the Jackson County Historical Society. The
Society welcomes your interest and invites you to visit its historic buildings
and archives of rare photographs and documents.