December 2007 Calendar of Events
Area Museums, Historical Sites and Historical Organizations

New Links

Announcements
News and views related to our history and natural resources.


Antique and Collectibles
2008 Show Calendar



Free 2008 Calendar (downloadable) with historic images when you sign up to receive our weekly email newsletter.

WANT TO BECOME A MASTER GARDENER?
Join the Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City!

Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City educate the public on gardening topics, answer gardening questions, and are proud contributors in their community.  Some of the programs Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City are involved in are Hotline, Speakers Bureau, Garden Tour, Demonstration garden plots, Special Events, and Community Projects, which include: Ronald McDonald House, Watkins Woolen Mill historic heirloom garden, Martha LaFitte Thompson Nature Sanctuary, Harvesters, and much, much more.   Application for the next class is due on June 9.  Additional Information.


Through  December 30th
All That Glitters - Victorian Christmas Celebration at Bingham-Waggoner Estate

Come view the estate decked out in elegant holiday splendor. Prepare to be dazzled as you visit room after room lavishly decorated in opulent Victorian Christmas decor. When you have completed your tour we invite you to relax in our third floor tea room with a cup of spiced tea and perhaps a cookie or two. And don't forget your holiday shopping needs. Our Carriage House Gift Shop is just the place to find that one-of-a-kind gift for someone special. Tickets are $5.00 for the Bingham-Waggoner tour or $12.00 for a three site combo tour of the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, Vaile Mansion-De Witt Museum and the 1859 Jail-Marshal's Home. Visit their website for additional information.
   
The Bingham Waggoner Estate [Web Site]            

313 West Pacific, Independence, MO 64050 816-461-3491

Through 30 December, Regular Museum Hours
A Very Fifties Christmas at Johnson County Museum's 1950's All-Electric House

Rock around the aluminum Christmas tree on a guided tour and take home a holiday memento. Groups of 10 or more can reserve weekday tours by calling (913) 715-2570. Tickets are $2 for adults; $1 for ages 12 and under.
Johnson County Museum of History   [Web Site]
6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS  66217    913-715-2550

Through 30 December, Regular Museum Hours
Christmas at Lanesfield School Historic Site

Discover what Christmas meant to schoolchildren in rural Kansas in the early 1900s. Restored one-room schoolhouse is decorated for a 1904 Christmas. Make a Christmas craft to take home. Free admission.
Lanesfield School Historic Site (Johnson County Museum of History)   [Web Site]
18745 S Dillie Road, Edgerton, KS    913-893-6645

Through December, Museum open 11:00 -  4:00 Tuesday through Saturday
Excelsior Springs Hall of Trees
Enjoy the sites of the holiday season while learning about the rich history of Excelsior Springs and the surrounding community.  The Hall of Trees celebration is shared by the Excelsior Springs Museum and Archive, the Hall of Waters and the Elms Hotel.  In addition to beautiful decorated tree displays, the Museum and Hall of Waters has a variety of historical exhibits.  The exhibits are free, but donations are appreciated.  The Hall of Water doesn't have the same hours as the museum so you may want to call the museum to be sure of access to the Hall of Waters. 
WindingRiver Photo Gallery
Excelsior Springs Historical Museum and Archives   [Web Site]
101 E. Broadway, Excelsior Springs, MO   816-630-0101

Through December
New Exhibits Commemorate 80th Anniversary of St. Joseph Museum

Opening of a series of exhibits dedicated to the early years of the museum founded in 1927.  The new exhibits will be open through December during the regular museum hours.
The St. Joseph Museums, Inc.    [Web Site]
3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO   816-232-8471

Through December 31
What the Longs Left: Corinthian Hall after 1934

Many of the original furnishings of Corinthian Hall were scattered by auction and family distribution when the owner, Kansas City lumber baron Robert A. Long, passed away in 1934. Piece by piece, a few of the artifacts that once adorned the 70 rooms of the "grand mansion" have made their way back to the Kansas City Museum and are now featured in What the Longs Left: Corinthian Hall after 1934.  Surviving artifacts include Mrs. Ella Long's hand-painted china tea service and a variety of the home's original decorative light fixtures, such as chandeliers and wall-mounted torchieres. Notable furniture includes the table and two chairs from the Louis XIV Dining Room.

This exhibit also offers visitors a chance to "look behind the scene" at the architectural changes made to Corinthian Hall over the past 67 years as it has been adapted from an impressive private residence to an educational public institution. Admission: Suggested donation of $2.50 for adults and $2 for seniors and children (3-17)  

Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

Through 31 August, 2008, Regular Museum Hours
Coming of Age in Johnson County (KS): 1960 - 1976

For the country, the county, and the Baby Boomer generation, the 1960's and 70's were a rite of passage. These decades challenged Americans to ask fundamental questions about the way they were living. What is our nation's place in the world? Does everyone deserve equal rights? What role should the government, both nationally and at the local level, play in our lives? Is it really a good idea wear a paisley tie with a powder blue polyester leisure suit? Check out this fascinating exhibit to explore how local residents responded to the issues of the times! Free Admission     Additional Information on special tours and history of the exhibit.  Visit the link below for regular museum hours.
Johnson County Museum of History   [Web Site]
6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS  66217    913-715-2550

17 November, Sunday, Regular Museum Hours
(Runs through January 6, 2008)
4000 Santas: Selections from the Collection of Richard Seaboldt

The Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall celebrates the holidays with an exhibit of Santa Claus toys and figurines from the collection of Kansas Citian, Richard Seaboldt.  Many of the pieces, ranging in sized from Lilliputian to life-size, were designed and made in Kansas City.
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123  
816-483-8300

 


1 December, Saturday, 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
Special Holiday Celebration including Presentation by "Laura Ingalls Wilder"

Join us throughout the day as we welcome the holiday season! 10% off all items in our museum store. Cider and cookies, music, and free covered wagon rides with regular paid museum admission. Special performances at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm: “Laura Ingalls Wilder” (first person performance portrayed by Nancy Eppert) will be with us at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm for a special reminiscence of Christmases past on the American Frontier. Laura will share her favorite memories during these forty-minute programs. $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for children ages 6-17. Advance reservations are requested. Fee includes admission to museum.                                                     
National Frontier Trails Museum      [Web Site]
318 W. Pacific, Independence, MO 64050
, 816-325-7575

2 December, Sunday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
First Sunday Family Fun Day at the Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall

Winter holidays around the world.
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

2 December, Sunday, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
A Victorian Christmas Celebration at the Bingham-Waggoner Estate Twilight Tour

This magical "after hours" tour is certain to put a little sparkle in your holiday season. In addition to our tea room and gift shop we will also feature the fabulous Banjo Band +1 in our Carriage House with additional entertainment in the main house during this special time. Ticket are $5.00.                                            
The Bingham Waggoner Estate [Web Site]
313 West Pacific, Independence, MO 64050 816-461-3491

2 December, Sunday, 2:00 pm
Holiday Music Recitals at Corinthian Hall

Kansas city community choirs will offer holiday favorites , old and new, at the Kansas City Museum with the following scheduled choirs:
 
▪   December 2:   Foreign Language Academy sixth graders
 
▪   December 9:   Choir of Melrose Methodist Church
 
▪   December 16: Kansas City Boys and Girls choirs directed by Ah Lee Robinson
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

6 December, Thursday, 7:00 pm
First Thursday Northeast Literature and Art Series: History of the Northeast News

Michael Bushnell, Publisher of the Northeast News will speak on the history of the publication. Doors open 6:00 pm.  Sponsored by Harolds Bookstore and Kafe Kiskeya.
Kafe Kiskeya   
3226 E. 12th St. , Kansas City, MO 64127

 

7 December, Friday, 4:00 - 8:00 pm
Holiday Open House & Fairy Princess Reunion

Have a sip and a snack and share greetings at the Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall as the museum celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Kansas City Museum Fairy Princess. The museum encourages past Fairy Princesses to join the museum for this special event.
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

8 December, Saturday, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Missouri Town 1855 Christmas Celebration

Residents of Missouri Town 1855 prepare for the holidays with decorating, singing and bearthcooking.  A special visit from a 19th century St. Nicholas will delight all children.  Adults-$5.00, Youth 5-13 and Seniors-$3.00, Under 5yrs.-Free 
Missouri Town 1855, Fleming Park, 8010 East Park Road, Lee's Summit, MO
816-503-4860
  [Web Site]

8 December, Saturday, 1:00 - 4:00 pm
"Nature's Noel" A Winter Craft Workshop at the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion
The winter craft workshop will have a nature theme for students ages 5 through 10 and will be hosted by the St. Joseph Museums, Inc.  Amy Grier, Director of Education, will help the students complete the craft projects, which will include making bird feeders, nesting bags, pinecone wreaths, and other treats for wildlife. The cost is $6.00 per child for museum members and $8 for non-members.  Call the museum for reservations.
The St. Joseph Museums, Inc.    [Web Site]
3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO   816-232-8471

8 December, Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 
Visit the Fairy Princess

The Kansas City Museum's Fairy Princess welcomes children to visit her in the Corinthian hall gold Room.  Children can whisper their holiday wishes to the Fairy Princess and receive a special gift.  Then, children can enjoy a treat and make a holiday craft in the Museum's 1910 Soda Fountain.  The visit is free with museum admission and photographs may be purchased for $5. (Also, 15th and 22nd December)
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

9 December, Sunday, 2:00 pm
Holiday Music Recitals at Corinthian Hall

Kansas city community choirs will offer holiday favorites , old and new, at the Kansas City Museum with the following scheduled choirs:
 
▪   December 2:   Foreign Language Academy sixth graders
 
▪   December 9:   Choir of Melrose Methodist Church
 
▪   December 16: Kansas City Boys and Girls choirs directed by Ah Lee Robinson
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

13 December, Thursday, 7:00 pm
Northeast Literature and Art Series: History of the Northeast News

Michael Bushnell, Publisher of the Northeast News will speak on the history of the publication. Doors open 6:00 pm.  Sponsored by Harolds Bookstore and Kafe Kiskeya.
Kafe Kiskeya   
3226 E. 12th St. , Kansas City, MO 64127

13 December, Thursday, 6:30 pm
A Conversation with Tom Pendergast, Encore Presentation

Dr. Bill Worley will reprise his role as Tom Pendergast in an interview with Kansas City Public Library chief Executive Crosby Kemper III.  The event will be filmed for broadcast on KCPT as a pilot for a potential new series, Meet the past: Kansas City Lives.  The original exchange between Kemper and Worley in October was one of the most successful events ever staged at the Central Library.
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)   [Website]
14 W. 10th St.,  Kansas City, MO    816-701-3543

15 December, Saturday, Opening at 9:00 am, Lecture at Noon
Recovered Views: African American Portraits, 1912 - 1925

Exhibition presenting 40 black-and-white portraits, attributed to John Johnson, an African American photographer who lived and worked around Lincoln, Nebraska, in the early 20th century.   Recovered Views will be on display through January 19, 2008.
Jesse James Farm  & Museum           [Web Site]
21216 Jesse James Farm Road, Kearney, MO   64060

15 December, Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 
Visit the Fairy Princess

The Kansas City Museum's Fairy Princess welcomes children to visit her in the Corinthian hall gold Room.  Children can whisper their holiday wishes to the Fairy Princess and receive a special gift.  Then, children can enjoy a treat and make a holiday craft in the Museum's 1910 Soda Fountain.  The visit is free with museum admission and photographs may be purchased for $5. (Also, 15th and 22nd December)
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

15 December, Saturday 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Family Fun Day at the Johnson County Museum of History

Join members of the Johnson County Museum’s Education Team as they lead craft activities in honor of the museum’s latest exhibit, Coming of Age in Johnson County: 1960 - 1976.  This exhibit explores the political, economic, and social issues facing Johnson County residents in the 1960s and ‘70s.  Learn to dance the Hustle, play a game of Pong, blast off to outer space in the interactive rocket, and much more. The event is free to the public.
Johnson County Museum of History   [Web Site]
6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS  66217    913-715-2550

16 December, Sunday, 2:30 pm
A Christmas Tea at the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion

Enjoy Christmas Tea and view the elaborate Christmas decorations of the Mansion and a wide variety of delicacies.  The event will feature a holiday fashion show by Clara’s Fashions and live music by hammered dulcimer musician, Esther Kreek.
Admission is $20 per person and pre-paid reservations are required.       
The St. Joseph Museums, Inc.    [Web Site]
3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO   816-232-8471

16 December, Sunday, 2:00 pm
Holiday Music Recitals at Corinthian Hall

Kansas city community choirs will offer holiday favorites , old and new, at the Kansas City Museum with the following scheduled choirs:
 
▪   December 2:   Foreign Language Academy sixth graders
 
▪   December 9:   Choir of Melrose Methodist Church
 
▪   December 16: Kansas City Boys and Girls choirs directed by Ah Lee Robinson
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

17 December, Monday, 6:00 pm
Did Jesse James really fall at the hands of Bob Ford?

Amateur historian Randy Jones will discuss that fateful day in 1882 and present research that suggests James didn't die that day.  From reading original newspaper accounts of James' death, the memoir of Missouri Gov. Thomas Crittenden and other accounts and by looking into the backgrounds of the authorities involved in the assassination plan, Jones believes the death was a hoax. He suggests that James escaped into history by running off with the wife of one of his gang members.
Rolling Hills Consolidated Library [Web Site]
1904 N. Belt Highway, St. Joseph, MO (816) 232-5479, ext.2204

22 December, Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 
Visit the Fairy Princess

The Kansas City Museum's Fairy Princess welcomes children to visit her in the Corinthian hall gold Room.  Children can whisper their holiday wishes to the Fairy Princess and receive a special gift.  Then, children can enjoy a treat and make a holiday craft in the Museum's 1910 Soda Fountain.  The visit is free with museum admission and photographs may be purchased for $5. (Also, 15th and 22nd December)
Kansas City Museum at Corinthian Hall  [Web Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO  64123   816-483-8300

29 December, Saturday, 10 a.m.
Hands on Activity: “Pack Your Wagon”

Children will learn why so many people decided to journey west on the Santa Fe, California and Oregon Trails. Participants will eat popcorn while watching the film “West” tour gallery exhibits, pack a “prairie schooner” with supplies and take part in a craft activity. $6.00 per participant. (Geared for 8-12 year olds) Advanced reservations are required.                                            
National Frontier Trails Museum      [Web Site]
318 W. Pacific, Independence, MO 64050
, 816-325-7575

29 December, Saturday, 10 a.m. Lecture; Noon Film
He Hated to Get Up in the Morning: Irving Berlin and Songs of World War I, Lecture
Joyeux Noel, Film Presentation

Presented by Michael Lasser, musical scholar and national radio host as part of the "Liberty for All" Lecture Series, funded in part by The History Channel.  The lecture will be held at 10 a.m. in the J.C. Nichols Auditorium.
At noon the French film, Joyeux Noel, will be shown at the museum.  This French film has become a holiday classic shown at The National World War I Museum. It depicts the 1914 Christmas Truce on the Western Front. Joyeux Noel was nominated for both an Academy Award and Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film of the Year in 2006. The movie is subtitled in English, contains one of the most graphic depictions of life in the trenches.

National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial  
[Web Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO  64108   816-784-1918


PO Box 119 ◦ Smithville MO ◦ 64089 www.WindingRiver.com Phone  816-898-7485