The Historic Truman Courthouse
The Jackson County Historical Society is not a part of the county services provided by Jackson County, Missouri. We are a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. We graciously thank Jackson County for providing us with office and archival space in the courthouse.
For property taxes, court hearings, marriage licenses, recorder of deeds, or other county services see www.jacksongov.org
There are no wedding ceremony services at the Historic Truman Courthouse.
Situated in the very heart of the Historic Square of Independence, Missouri, the Truman Courthouse has a history that dates back to before Independence's most famous (and only) US President served as the Presiding Judge (known as County Executive today) of Jackson County. The Jackson County Historical Society is fortunate to have its History Center/Bookstore and Archives/Research Library at the Truman Courthouse.
Home of JCHS
The Jackson County Historical Society History Center located in Suite 120 on the first floor is open to the public. Rotating exhibits featuring Jackson County Historical Society artifacts and archival material is displayed. Our bookstore and gift shop featuring books and items about Jackson County history is also open. We accept card or cash.
If you are wishing to visit the archives, appointments must be scheduled in advance. Click here.
We are open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. Due to a small staff, we may not be available and recommend emailing staff@jchs.org in advance.
If you are interested in a tour of Harry S. Truman’s office, the Brady Courtroom or the Jackson County Art Museum please visit “Request a Tour”
An Unusual History
The original building on this site was built in 1836 in the Colonial Revival style. For over 175 years the site has undergone many changes to the building with major renovations and additions in 1848, 1873, 1887, and 1907--each one changing the clock tower and altering the design. The final renovation of 1933, designed by George Fredrick Wallace under the leadership of Presiding Judge Harry S. Truman, again expanded the courthouse to accommodate all of Jackson County's functioning departments and created a new office where the future president served as the county's senior administrator.
The Modern Courthouse
Since 2008 the Truman Courthouse has undergone several phases of restorative work to return the grounds to their 1933 appearance while addressing serious drainage, foundation, and structural issues that will bring the building up to code. With this restorative work the Courthouse is an attractive landmark for visitors and locals interested in the life and work of Harry S. Truman.
For more information regarding the details of the restoration of the 1933 courthouse, take a look at the Jackson County Government's page on the topic or see these floorplans.