Independence, Kansas
USA
Geographic Coordinates: 39.087100, -94.350100
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 40.0°C (14°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal climate and weather patterns in Independence, US?
Population: 122230
Language: English
Independence, United States is a small city located in the western part of the state of Missouri. It is situated about 10 miles east of Kansas City and has a population of approximately 117, 000 residents. The city was founded in 1827 and played an important role in the history of the United States as it served as the starting point for many westward-bound pioneers during the 19th century. One of Independence’s most famous attractions is the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum.
This museum features exhibits on Truman’s life and presidency, Including his decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan, Which ended World War II. The museum also includes a replica of Truman’s Oval Office and an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to experience what it was like to be president. Another popular attraction in Independence is the National Frontier Trails Museum. This museum tells the story of westward expansion through exhibits that feature artifacts from pioneers who traveled along trails such as the Oregon Trail, Santa Fe Trail, And California Trail.
Visitors can see covered wagons, Tools used by pioneers, And learn about their daily lives on these treacherous journeys. Independence also has several historic sites that are worth visiting such as The Bingham-Waggoner Estate which was built-in 1852 by George Caleb Bingham who was a famous artist at that time; this estate serves today as a historic house museum showcasing Victorian-era furniture & paintings while offering guided tours for visitors.
The Vaile Mansion is another landmark building located within Independence; it was built-in 1881 by Harvey Vaile who made his fortune selling patent medicines during this era; he spared no expense when constructing this mansion with its beautiful stained glass windows & intricate woodwork throughout all rooms making it one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece until today! Apart from these historical landmarks there are many other things to do in Independence such as shopping at local boutiques or dining at unique restaurants serving up delicious cuisine from around the world.
Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or biking along the Little Blue Trace Trail, Which is a 15-mile paved trail that winds through Independence’s scenic countryside. Independence, United States is a city with rich history and culture that offers visitors a unique glimpse into America’s past. From its famous presidential library to its historic sites and museums, There are plenty of things to see and do in this charming Midwestern town. Whether you’re interested in learning about westward expansion or simply want to explore local shops and restaurants, Independence has something for everyone.
Important Landmarks
- Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum
- National Frontier Trails Museum
- Bingham-Waggoner Estate
- Vaile Mansion
- Leila’s Hair Museum
- 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum
- Independence Square
- Community of Christ Temple
- Silverstein Eye Centers Arena
- Adventure Oasis Water Park
Primary Industries
- Healthcare
- Centerpoint Medical Center
- Saint Luke’s East Hospital
- Education
- William Chrisman High School
- Graceland University
- Government Services
- City of Independence
- Jackson County government offices
- Retail Trade
- Independence Center mall (over 100 stores)
- Manufacturing
- CertainTeed Corporation
- Tourism
- Harry S Truman Presidential Library & Museum
- National Frontier Trails Museum
- Signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
- Battle of Germantown in 1777 during the American Revolution.
- Establishment of Independence Hall as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Liberty Bell being rung to announce the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
- Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States.
- Benjamin Franklin, Founding Father and signer of both the Declaration and Constitution.
- John Adams, second President and signer of both documents.
- Betsy Ross, seamstress who is believed to have sewn America’s first flag.
- George Washington, Commander-in-Chief during the Revolutionary War and first President.
- Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum
- National Frontier Trails Museum
- Vaile Mansion
- Bingham-Waggoner Estate
- 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum
- Leila’s Hair Museum
- Mormon Visitors Center and Historic Sites
- Community of Christ Temple and Auditorium
- Puppetry Arts Institute
- Independence Square
- Independence Community College Pirates: The college’s athletic program offers a range of sports including football, basketball, volleyball, softball and baseball.
- Independence Mustangs: This semi-professional football team competes in the Mid-States Football League.
- Independence Blues: From 1947 to 1954, the Blues played in the Kansas-Oklahoma-Missouri League as a minor league baseball team.
- Independence Producers: This minor league baseball team played in both the Western Association and Kansas-Oklahoma-Missouri League from 1912 to 1950.
- Independence Buccaneers: During the 2009 season, this professional indoor football team competed in the Indoor Football League.
- William Chrisman High School Bears: The school has won multiple state championships across various sports such as football, basketball, wrestling and track and field.
- Truman High School Patriots: Truman has also achieved success across various sports including wrestling, volleyball and soccer.
- Fort Osage High School Indians – Fort Osage has had success across various sports such as football, softball and cross country.
- Santa-Cali-Gon Days is a four-day festival that takes place in early September and celebrates the city’s pioneer heritage with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a parade.
- The Independence Heritage Festival is held in late August or early September and features historical reenactments, live music, food vendors, and children’s activities.
- The Truman Heritage Festival is an annual event that takes place in May to honor the life and legacy of President Harry S. Truman with a parade, live entertainment, food vendors, and historical exhibits.
- Every year on the first Friday after Thanksgiving (Black Friday), Independence hosts an annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony to kick off the holiday season with fireworks displays and holiday performances.
- Civil War on the Western Frontier is a living history event that takes place every October at the Historic Missouri Town 1855 site where visitors can experience what life was like during the Civil War era with reenactors portraying soldiers and civilians from that period.
- Oktoberfest is held annually in late September or early October at Bingham-Waggoner Estate Museum grounds featuring German-inspired foods such as bratwursts along with beer gardens.
- The city hosts an annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration on July 4th at various locations throughout Independence including several parks around town for family-friendly fun!
- The Harry S Truman Library Institute Annual Wild About Harry Gala Dinner & Auction is typically held each spring to raise funds for library programs such as student scholarships & teacher workshops.
- Gates BBQ – Known for their signature burnt ends and BBQ ribs.
- Dixon’s Famous Chili – A classic diner serving chili and other comfort foods.
- Cafe Verona – An Italian restaurant offering pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas.
- Ophelia’s Restaurant & Inn – A fine dining experience with a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
- El Pico Mexican Restaurant – Serving authentic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
- Square Pizza – A local favorite for their thin-crust pizza with unique toppings like smoked salmon or goat cheese.
- The Big Biscuit – A breakfast spot famous for their fluffy biscuits and gravy.
- Englewood Cafe – A cozy cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- George Owens Nature Park
- Waterfall Park
- Rotary Park
- McCoy Park
- Adventure Oasis Water Park
- Independence Athletic Complex
- National Frontier Trails Museum
- Bingham-Waggoner Estate
- Harry S Truman Library and Museum
- Sermon Center
Noteable History
Historical Events:
Notable People:
Museums and Things To See
Sports Teams
Note: This information was gathered through research on local sports teams’ websites as well as historical records of their achievements within their respective leagues/divisions/etc..