Independence, Missouri, is not only the fourth largest city in Missouri, but one of the most historic cities in the entire State. It is a good place to see historic buildings and sites.
Harry S. Truman called the city home. His library is located on Delaware Street, near his home. The
Harry S. Truman Library/Musuem is filled with items from his childhood to his presidency. He was the 33rd President of the United States. The various displays depict the struggles the country faced during his presidency. There is a replica of his oval office in the White House, including the original “The Buck Stops Here” sign that sat on his desk in the White House. President and Mrs. Truman’s graves are located in the courtyard. The library is open Monday through Saturday. Hours and admission prices are available by calling the facility at 800-833-1225. It is a museum that should take at least four hours to see and enjoy.
The residence of Harry and Bess Truman, simply referred to as the Truman Home, is located at 219 N. Delaware. Bess Truman remained in the home after the death of her husband, and only after her death, was the home opened for tours. The house’s original furnishings belonged to the Truman family. It can be toured at frequent intervals during the day. This house is very ornate on the outside, and the period pieces inside are lovely.
There are other historic homes located in Independence. One of these is the Bingham Waggoner Estate. This home was owned by George C. Bingham, who was a famed Civil War artist. This home has historic significance, not only because of the residents, but because it was once located on the Santa Fe Trail. The second owner was the Wagoner Family, thus the combined name.
Another historic building is the Vaile Mansion. This home is known for its Second Empire Victorian architecture. There are ceiling murals, lavish furnishings, and antiques that visitors can view throughout the home.
Going from lavish to simple, is the Pioneer Spring Cabin. It is just a two room log cabin, but the scenic location is especially inviting in the Springtime. It is located on a Spring. It was removed from its original location, and is a perfect example of the housing of the original pioneers, who settled in the area. This simple cabin illustrates the life that the pioneers in the area maintained.
If you enjoy shopping, try the Independence Historic Square. There are twenty antique and other interesting shops located there. There is casual dining located there, also. It is a different venue that the malls. The items found here are usually “one of a kind.”
Visitors can enjoy the varied entertainment offered at the Independence Events Center.
There is ice skating, a water park, various sports events, and other entertainment available there year round.
A trip to Independence, Missouri, is not complete unless you dine at the exciting restaurants in the city.
There is barbeque, Italian, German, and Southwestern cuisine to choose from at reasonable prices. Jazz music and other entertainment is featured at some of the local eateries. Most restaurants are family type eateries.
Lodging in Independence is available year round. Best Western, Comfort Suites, Fairfield Inn, and Hilton are some of the hotels/motels located in the area.
Independence, Missouri, welcomes visitors. The town offers convenient transportation to most of the historic homes and sites.
Other references: AAA Publishing Company
Independence Missouri Chamber of Commerce