Our Mission:
Preserve.
The Jackson County (Missouri) Historical Society is dedicated to the preservation and understanding of its county’s heritage and will promote the study, appreciation, and interpretation of local and regional history.
Famous Jackson Countian
“There is nothing new in the world except the history you do not know.”
President Harry S. Truman
Our Collections
The Jackson County Historical Society is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving the written, oral, and physical legacy of this county. In addition to maintaining many physical collections, the society promotes the study, appreciation, and interpretation of local and regional history. Our roots can be traced to 1909 when a group of citizens interested in history first started meeting. In 1940 the Society formally organized and in 1958 officially incorporated as The Jackson County Historical Society to celebrate our rich, unique story. The physical archives, research library, and bookstore are located in the Truman Courthouse on the Independence Square.
The Stockyards in the Kansas City West Bottoms
Our Rich History
Native Americans, exploration, pioneers, wagon trains, Civil War, railroads and cattle, a United States President, suburban sprawl, and urban revitalization. What defines Jackson County history and makes this county unique?
Jackson County was home to members of the Osage Native American tribe. The first known European explorers were French trappers who used the Missouri River as a highway for explorations and trading with Native American tribes.
Explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through Jackson County on their famous Lewis and Clark expedition in 1804. Among other items, their report indicated a "high, commanding position" along the river within the current boundaries of Jackson County that in 1808 became Fort Osage. This stockade and trading post was one of the first U.S. military installations within the Louisiana purchase territory, and remained active until 1822.
In 1821, Jackson County became part of the newly admitted state of Missouri. Jackson County was organized on December 15, 1826 and named for President Andrew Jackson. Independence, which was at the time only a minuscule settlement near a spring. However, the rapid increase in Westward exploration and expansion ultimately made Independence the starting point for three of the great Westward Trails: the Santa Fe Trail, the Oregon Trail, and the California Trail. With the American Civil War and the coming of the railroads, nearby Kansas City ultimately eclipsed Independence, though both towns remain county seats.
Downtown Lee’s Summit in 1932 looking east on 3rd Street.
300K+
Archival Materials Preserved
The Jackson County Historical Society boasts one of the largest photograph depositories of our region’s history - many coming from the Wilborn Collection.
112+
Years Saving History
From 1909 when our founding was started to today, the Jackson County Historical Society continues to work tirelessly to save our county’s history.
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County
Jackson County isn’t just Kansas City. It’s the wonderful communities of Blue Springs, Buckner, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Independence, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lee’s Summit, Levasy, Lone Jack, Martin City, Oak Grove, Raytown, River Bend, Sugar Creek, Sibley, and Unity Village.
The 1903 Flood of the West Bottoms.
Get Involved
There are many ways you can become involved with the Jackson County Historical Society. From simply following us on our social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to becoming an annual member of the Society. We strive to create engaging and educational programs for kids to adults throughout the year. Want to get your hands “dirty” with history? Consider joining our team of volunteers that help provide historical material to the general public daily.
Programs and Events
Plan some time in your schedule to attend our offerings of educational programs and fun events!
Volunteer opportunities
Learn more about becoming a volunteer with the Jackson County Historical Society.
Become a member
Become a Jackson County Historical Society member knowing that your annual donation helps preserve and share our history for generations to come.
Woodie Walder’s Swing Unit, circa 1930
Parade on Paseo Boulevard, circa 1904
View of downtown Buckner, Missouri with WWI soldiers in formation, circa 1917-1919
Bi-wing airplanes fly over Raytown
Business street in Grandview
Aftermath of the Ruskin Heights tornado, May 1957
Box Car Race on wooden track in South Kansas City, 1920.
Oak Grove fire department
Train station in Atherton, Missouri
Our Programs
The Jackson County Historical Society wants to bring history to life through several different events and programs offered throughout the Jackson County area. From trivia nights, partnerships with other local organization events, guest speakers, exhibit openings, and fundraising events - we’re sure to have something you’d like to attend!
YOu DOn’t know Jack(son) County
Trivia night featuring questions about Jackson County history. Each event will host a different theme. Test your knowledge and answer trivia questions to win fun prizes. There will be 5 history categories with 10 questions each.
Ghost Tours at the 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum
Join Dusk 2 Dawn Paranormal and the Jackson County Historical Society for a public paranormal investigation at the 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum. This popular event sells out quickly!
Live Action Oregon Trail
Kids of the 90’s rejoice! Try not to die from dysentery. Test your luck at during our Live Action Oregon Trail game based off the popular computer game. Teams of 4 will see if they have what it takes to survive the Oregon Trail. There are 10 stops along the way with games, trivia, and relay races. Teams will pack their wagon, "hunt" wild game, and much more. Bonus points for coming in costume.
Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony
Members of the Jackson County Historical Society are invited annually in January to attend the Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony. The event features annual awards JCHS gives to recognize significant contribution to local history and support for JCHS. A silent auction to raise funding for programs is also held.
