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1 May, Saturday, Time to be announced
Pony Express Sesquicentennial Events: Parade, Barbecue and Air Show
Voted “Best Parade in St. Joseph” for 11 consecutive years, this year’s
Apple Blossom parade will feature the theme, “Expanding St. Joe Horizons:
From Ponies to Planes,” referring to the Pony Express Sesquicentennial
plus performances by the renowned Blue Angels, who will soar over the
skies of St. Joseph in F/A-18 Hornets. Other performances will include
aerobatics, wing-walking pirates and more. The Barbecue
Contest will be held May 1 - 2.
2010 Pony Express Sesquicentennial Event Program
Apple Blossom Parade [Web
Site]
1 May, Saturday, 10 a.m.
Liberty Walking Tours: Mt. Memorial Cemetery
Tour meets at the entrance to the cemetery on William Jewell campus. All
tours are free and open to the public.
Liberty's Heritage 2010 Walking Tours
City of Liberty Preservation Office
[Web
Site]
101 E. Kansas St., Liberty, MO 816-439-4537
1 May, Saturday, 1 - 4
p.m.
Annual May Day celebration at Historic School
The Lanesfield School re-creates a typical May Day celebration in a rural
community at the beginning of the 20th century. Visitors can dance around
the Maypole, make a May Day basket, enjoy refreshments, and listen to
traditional Celtic music. Visitors can also tour the schoolhouse decked
out in traditional decorations and try old-fashioned school activities.
Maypole dance demonstrations will be held throughout the afternoon.
Lanesfield School Historic Site (Johnson County Museum of History)
[Web Site]
18745 S Dillie Road, Edgerton, KS 913-893-6645
1 May, Saturday, 10
a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fiber Fest/Live Woolies to Woolens
Fiber artists and area guild members will demonstrate their crafts and the
Embroidery Guild will distribute free sample kits as part of the
celebration of the exhibit Reflections on the War: Women and Their
Civil War Quilts. The exhibit, highlights quilts, textiles, and
turbulent times in Kansas. In addition there is an 1800s undergarments
exhibit and hooked rug display.
Materials and handmade items will be available to buy.
Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic
Site [Web
Site]
3403 W 53 ST, Fairway, KS 913-262-0867
1 May, Saturday, 10 a.m. - Noon
The Art of Tatting Lace
Mary Limpus, of the Osage Spinners & Weavers, will teach the delicate art
of "Tatting Lace". Registration is required, as seating is limited. A
donation of $10 is suggested. All proceeds go to the Bates County Museum
and registrants are encouraged to tour the Museum following the class.
Contact the Museum to register and receive additional class information.
Bates County Museum
[Web
Site]
802
Elks Drive, Butler, MO (660) 679-0134
1 May, Saturday, 10
a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fiber Fest/Live Woolies to Woolens
Fiber artists and area guild members will demonstrate their crafts and
the Embroidery Guild will distribute free sample kits as part of the
celebration of the exhibit Reflections on the War: Women and Their
Civil War Quilts. The exhibit, highlights quilts, textiles, and
turbulent times in Kansas. In addition there is an 1800s undergarments
exhibit and hooked rug display.
Materials and handmade items will be available to buy.
Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic
Site [Web
Site]
3403 W 53 ST, Fairway, KS 913-262-0867
1 May, Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4:30
p.m.
Sheep Shearing
Watch as Missouri Town’s sheep are sheared of their winter coats. Fiber
artists will demonstrate the complete process of shearing, washing,
carding, dyeing, spinning, weaving and knitting of the wool.
Missouri Town 1855
[Web
Site]
8010 E. Park Road (Fleming Park), Lee's Summit, MO
816-503-4860
1 May, Saturday, 10 - 11 a.m.
Historic Church Walking Tour
A tour of some of the most historic churches of Independence. The walking
tour begins at the Second Baptist Church, proceeds to Trinity Episcopal
Church, and finally First Presbyterian Church. The tour will include a
fifteen minute stop at each location. A church representative will provide
a brief history, an overview of its architectural features, and
information about recent restoration efforts. This event is FREE and open
to the public, however reservations are required. Please call
(816)325-7419 no later than April 28, 2010 as space is limited. Additional
information: wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
1 - 2 May, Saturday - Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5
p.m.
Spring Plant Sale Weekend
During the first weekend of May you’ll find serious gardeners shopping
Powell Gardens’ biggest plant sale of the year. Select from a wide range
of perennials, annuals, herbs, vegetables, native trees, shrubs and some
of Powell Gardens’ own best performers. The members-only preview sale
takes place on April 30; the sale opens to the public the following two
days. See web site for admission/participation fees.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
2 May, Sunday, 1 - 3
p.m.
High Tea/Fashion Show
Tickets are $10.00 children $15.00 adults. Contact Frances Hose
816-419-8304 to purchase tickets.
Dillingham-Lewis House Museum
101 SW 15th St., Blue Springs, MO 816-224-4910
2 May, Sunday, Noon - 4
p.m.
Founder's Day and Special Book Signing
Celebrate the birthday of Corinthian Hall and the founding of the Kansas
City Museum at First Sunday Family Fun Day. Your family will play our
Corinthian Hall bean bag toss game, play games about numbers, and design
your own Corinthian Hall and much more. Also, purchase your copy of
the third edition of Corinthian Hall: An American Palace and
receive a second copy free. Editor and historian Monroe Dodd will
autograph copies from 2 - 3 p.m. The cost of the book is $17.95.
Kansas City Museum at
Corinthian Hall [Web
Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64123
816-483-8300
2 May, Sunday, Noon - 4
p.m.
Exhibit in Print: Corinthian Hall, An American Palace
Explore the life of Kansas City lumber baron and entrepreneur Robert. A.
Long and his family, and their grand home, Corinthian Hall, through this
re-released book, Corinthian Hall: An American Palace. Originally
written by Northeast Kansas City historian Lenore K. Bradley in 1981,
noted Kansas City historian and author Monroe Dodd has expanded and
revised this masterpiece with new information and additional color photos.
The release is a part of Kansas City Museum’s Founder’s Day festivities.
The Kansas City Museum was founded 70 years ago in May, 30 years after
Corinthian Hall was built. The booking is being published by Star
Publishing.
Kansas City Museum at
Corinthian Hall [Web
Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64123
816-483-8300
3 May, Monday, 6 p.m.
City Council Meeting and presentation of Preservation Awards
Proclamation of Historic Preservation Month and presentation of the 2010
W. Z. Hickman Preservation Awards. Meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers in Independence City Hall. Free Event. Additional
information: wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
4 May, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6
p.m.)
Author Presentation: Capitalism and the Jews
Jerry Muller discusses his new book, a collection of four essays examining
the historical relationship between capitalism and the Jewish people.
Drawing on economic, social, political, and intellectual history from
medieval Europe through contemporary America and Israel, the author
examines the ways in which thinking about capitalism and thinking about
the Jews have gone hand in hand and why anti-capitalism and anti-Semitism
have frequently been linked. The presentation is free, but
reservations are requested.
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
6 May, Thursday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6
p.m.)
Author Presentation: Pops, A Life of Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong was among the greatest jazz musicians of the 20th century
and a giant of modern American culture, knocking the Beatles off the top
of the charts and writing one of the finest jazz autobiographies. Terry
Teachout, an arts columnist for The Wall Street Journal, draws on
new sources, including hundreds of private recordings of backstage and
after-hours conversations. This event complements the exhibit The Fine
Art of Jazz, on display at the Central Library. The presentation is
free, but reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
6 May, Thursday, 7 p.m.
Bataan Death March and Fall of Corregidor
Judge Bill Allen, a Bataan Death March survivor, and, Ben Lohman, a Marine
captured when Corregidor fell are guest speakers. Both men were prisoners
of the Japanese for 3 and a half years and were worked under difficult
circumstances. They survived transport to Japan in “hell ships,” many of
which were sunk by American submarines not knowing of the Americans
crammed in the hold of the ship. The Japanese did not adhere to the Geneva
Convention regarding treatment of prisoners. Gary Swanson will be the
Moderator and will introduce the guests. This presentation, the second in
the 2010 WW II Living History series is free and open to the public.
Historical Society of New Santa Fe at the
Trailside Center [Web
Site]
9901 Holmes, Kansas City, MO 63131
816-942-3581
7 May, Friday, 9 a.m.
- 6 p.m.
National Public Gardens Day
Grab a friend and enjoy the Gardens for free today. You’ll be part of an
annual celebration highlighting the role of public gardens as a leading
resource on environmental stewardship, plant conservation, environmental
education and more. Areas to explore include the Island Garden, Rock &
Waterfall Garden, Perennial Garden, Heartland Harvest Garden, visitor
center, chapel and nature trail.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
7 - 8 May, Friday -
Saturday, See description for hours
African Violet Judged Show and Sale
Nationally judged African Violet event with members entering African
Violets and other plants of the gesneriad family will be held at the
Loose Park Garden Center, 51st and Wornall Road, Kansas City, Missouri.
The Sales Room will be open Noon - 4 p.m. on Friday and both the Show
Room and the Sales Room will be available 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Free Admission
Sho-Me African Violet Club
Unpredictables African Violet Society of Blue Springs
7 - 9 May, Friday,
Regular Museum Hours
Military Spouse’s Weekend
The Museum honors military spouses with free admission throughout this
weekend. All military spouses will receive a free admission to the Museum
with official identification.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
8 May, Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Artifact Road Show
Bring your arrowheads and archaeological objects to have a professional
archaeologist authenticate them and tell you about the indigenous people
who made them.
Fort Osage National Historic Landmark [Web
Site]
107 Osage St. Sibley, MO
816-503-4860
8 May, Saturday, Various Times
Historic Independence celebrates Truman's birthday May
'The buck stops here' could be the theme for Independence's celebration of the
126th birthday of President Harry S Truman. It's a full day of special events
throughout historic Independence with museums charging only $1 admission that
day. Trolleys will run between museums during part of the day.
Highlights of the day will be several events at the Harry S Truman Library and
Museum including a wreath laying ceremony at 9 a.m.
Additional information and a schedule of
city-wide events.
City of Independence Tourism Department [Web
Site]
816-325-7111
and
Harry S Truman Library and Museum [Web
Site]
500 W. US Hwy. 24, Independence, MO 816-268-8200
8 May, Saturday, 2 p.m.
Second Saturday Story Time: Let’s Read about Raptors!
Learn why eagles, hawks, and owls are at the top of the food chain.
We’ll have things to show you, regarding these powerful birds.
Event is free with paid admission.
Remington Nature Center of St. Joseph [Web
Site]
1502 MacArthur Drive, St. Joseph, MO
8 - 9 May, Saturday -
Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Bonsai Society Weekend
The Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City displays their trees and plants
at the visitor center. A slide show each day (1:30 p.m. Saturday and 2
p.m. Sunday) explains the origins of this “living” art, the design process
and general horticultural procedures. The display includes both deciduous
and evergreen species from various temperate regions.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
11 May, Tuesday, 1 p.m.
Author Presentation: Nefertiti’s Sisters
Art historian Carol Inge Hockett presents an examination of the role of
women in ancient Egypt as learned through sculptures, carvings, tomb
paintings, and other forms of art. From the cult of Isis to the reign of
Hatshepsut, Hockett will explore women’s lives in ancient Egypt and look
at the structure of family, daily life, and women’s participation in
worship. The presentation is free, but reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Plaza Branch)
[Website]
4801 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-701-3481
11 May, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6
p.m.)
Author Presentation: The First Tycoon, The Epic Life of Cornelius
Vanderbilt
Author T.J. Stiles discusses his new biography following Vanderbilt’s life
from his humble birth on Staten Island during the presidency of George
Washington and his rise through the business ranks from sailboat ferryman
to steamboat entrepreneur, to master of transoceanic steamship lines.
Vanderbilt eventually gave up his shipping businesses and concentrated on
building a railroad empire. The presentation is free, but reservations are
requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
11 - 12 May,
Tuesday - Wednesday, Selected Hours
Boy Scouts of America Art Tour, Celebrating 100 years of Scouting
View the works of Norman Rockwell and other artists who documented
Scouting's contribution to the fabric of America. The traveling works
feature 16 paintings from Norman Rockwell and his understudy Joseph
Csatari. This free exhibition is sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America
and is on display in the J.C. Nichols Auditorium Lobby.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
12 May, Wednesday, Noon - 1 p.m.
Local Historic Landscapes
Bring your brown bag lunch to the Truman Memorial Building, located at 416
West Maple Avenue, for a talk by Charlotte Olejko, City of Independence
Horticulturalist on "Local Historic Landscapes." Refreshments and desserts
will be provided. This is a FREE event. Additional information:
wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
13 May, Thursday, Noon - 1 p.m.
Harry Truman's Office- A Final Preservation Report
One year ago the Truman Library completed a project to preserve the office
of former President Harry S. Truman and to improve the interpretive
experience for the Library's museum visitor. For a decade the form
President met visiting dignitaries, handled correspondence, and directed
many of the activities if the Truman Library from this office, Truman
Library Museum Curator Clay Bauske discusses challenges of the project and
the Library's broader efforts to "go green" by improving climate controls,
lighting, and other environmental components. His presentation is
accompanied by "before and after" photographs of the extensive
conservation work undertaken on the furniture, books, and other contents
of the office. The talk will be held in the Whistlestop Room. This event
is FREE and open to the public. Additional information:
wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
15 May, Saturday, 10 a.m. - Noon
Interprekidz
Science and interpretation class for kids aged 8 – 12 to
learn about handling artifacts, dig in the yard in search of artifacts,
and learn about first person interpretation.
The John Wornall House Museum [Web
Site]
6115 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO (816) 444-1858
15 May, Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Old Time Country Fair and Bonnet Festival
Information and a display of this historic Gladstone, Missouri home will
be available along with a craft show, music and other activities. The home
is under restoration and the event will be held at the Happy Rock park,
76th Street and Antioch Road in Gladstone.
Friends of the Atkins-Johnson Farm [Web
Site]
15 May, Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Spring Wildflower Walks
Take a guided tour with a professional naturalist and learn about the
native wildflowers and other flora and fauna surrounding the Fort and
along the banks of the Missouri River. See what species have survived
since first being identified during the Lewis & Clark Expedition.
Fort Osage National Historic Landmark [Web
Site]
107 Osage St. Sibley, MO
816-503-4860
15 - 16 May, Saturday -
Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Iris Weekend at Powell Gardens
Mid-May is usually peak bloom time for meandering ribbons of multi-colored
flowers on the gentle slopes of “Iris Hill.” The iris plantings were
established by Dr. Norland Henderson and are tended by the Greater Kansas
City Iris Society. Local experts will be on hand to offer advice and
growing tips.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
15 May, Saturday, 5 - 8 p.m.
2nd Annual Mystery Dinner Theatre
The year is 1864. Local artist George Caleb Bingham is hosting a grand
party at his Independence, Missouri home. As a special surprise for his
guests, Mr. Bingham has invited the entire crew of the steamboat
Cherokee Belle which is docked in nearby Westport Landing, to entertain
his guests. The entertainment will include a fabulous stage show filled
with music, dancing and frivolity. In addition to the talented troupe
there will also be a delicious array of food, drink and fun-filled
games, wonderful door prizes and a splendid silent auction. And, of
course, there is certain to be a little melodrama! Who knows what could
happen in a crowd of this magnitude? Something shocking, for sure! This
is a reservation only event. Tickets for this event are $45 per person.
The Bingham Waggoner Estate
[Web Site]
313 West Pacific, Independence, MO 64050 816-461-3491
16 May, Sunday, 2 p.m.
Author Presentation: George Sibley and Breach of Promise on the
American Frontier
Kenneth H. Winn tells the seldom-heard story of Indian agent George
Sibley and Ellen Lorr whose failure to marry touched off a legal and
political battle in early 1800s Missouri. In 1812 Sibley asked Lorr, the
daughter of his Indian language interpreter, to live with him, making a
written promise to protect her from the “frown of fortune.” When the War
of 1812 drove them from Fort Osage, near present-day Kansas City, to St.
Louis, Lorr sued Sibley for failing to marry her. The battle soon became
political as the old French colonial elite rallied to Lorr, while their
new American opponents took Sibley’s side. The presentation is free, but
reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
16 May, Sunday, Noon - 4 p.m.
Cliff Drive Sunday Parkways Program
Entertainment and activities will abound at Kansas City, Missouri's first
Ciclovia- type festival on Cliff Drive. The public is encouraged to come
out and participate in non-motorized activities while enjoying a
festival-like atmosphere. A History Walk and Talk with Michael Bushnell is
scheduled from 1 - 2 p.m. On Cliff Drive, activities will take place
between the Kansas City Museum and East Gladstone entrances; additional
activities will take place on Gladstone Boulevard from the Kansas City
Museum to Indian Mound. The Sunday Parkways program is a free event.
Additional information:
Map and
description of Cliff Drive
Schedule of 16 May Program.
Kansas City (MO) Parks and Recreation Department
[Web
Site]
17 May, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
Author Presentation: The Last Stand
National Book Award-winning author Nathaniel Philbrick discusses his new
book about the Battle of Little Bighorn sketching the two antagonists,
Sitting Bull and George Armstrong Custer, and reminds readers that the
Battle of the Little Bighorn was also, even in victory, the last stand for
the Sioux and Cheyenne Indian nations. Philbrick evokes the history and
geography of the Great Plains with an archetypal story of the American
West, which continues to haunt imaginations. The presentation is free, but
reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Plaza Branch)
[Website]
4801 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-701-3481
19 May, Wednesday, 6 p.m.
Egypt – Travel Tips for the Trip of a Lifetime
Dr. Jimmy Albright will share his experiences of many years of traveling
to, and teaching about, ancient Egypt as he presents ideas for making the
most of a visit to Egypt. Learn about what essentials to pack, proper
etiquette, and the not-to-be-missed aspects of Egypt. Information on an
organized group trip will be available along with handouts on the various
aspects of planning a successful trip whether you go with a group or on
your own. Dr. Jimmy Albright, Missouri Western State University, has
taught “Introduction to Archaeology” and “Mediterranean Archaeology” for
thirty years while also making regular trips to Israel to work on
excavations there. He has toured Egypt eight times, as well as leading
tours of Greece and Israel.
The St. Joseph Museums, Inc.
[Web
Site]
3406 Frederick Avenue, St. Joseph, MO 816-232-8471
20 May, Thursday, Noon - 1 p.m.
Practical Preservation: Simple Steps to Preserve Family Heirlooms
Bring your brown bag lunch and samples of family papers and photographs to
the Sermon Center, 501 North Dodgion, for a mini-workshop, "Practical
Preservation: Simple Steps You Can Take to Preserve Family Heirlooms," by
David W. Jackson, Archives Director for the Jackson County Historical
Society. Refreshments and desserts will be provided. This is a FREE event.
Additional information:
wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
21 May, Friday, 3 p.m.
WPA-era Murals by Artist Edward "Buk" Ulreich to be unveiled
The two murals, Indians Watching Stagecoach in the Distance and
Pony Express were commissioned as a part of the Works Progress
Administration Fine Arts program in 1937 for the Federal Building located
in Columbia, Missouri. Edward "Buk" Ulreich (1889-1966) was born in
Hungary and grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. Intrigued by the American
West, "Buk" worked as a cowhand and incorporated many of the individuals
he encountered in his artwork.
The National Archives at Kansas City [Web
Site]
400 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO
816-268-8000
22 May, Saturday, 10 a.m.
Author discussion: Brothers Blue and Gray
Author, Ellen Gray Massey is well known for her novel, The Burnt
District, and has two new books since her last visit to Bates County.
Brothers, Blue and Gray and Her Enemies, Blue and Gray will
be discussed. She has the understanding of what life was like here on the
Border during the war and her characters reflect the complex nature of
what occurred during that time.
Bates County Museum
[Web
Site]
802
Elks Drive, Butler, MO (660) 679-0134
22 May, Saturday, 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Cactus and Succulent Sale
The Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society will have a sale at the City
Market, 5th and Delaware in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas city Cactus and Succulent Society [Website]
22 May, Saturday, 10 a.m.
Historic Oxford Schoolhouse Hosts Clara Stover
Marlene Katz presents a first person portrait of Clara Stover who, with
her husband Russell, became a true American success story. They both
struggled from a penniless beginning to create a chocolate empire,
Russell Stover Candies. Although her husband holds the company name, it
was by Clara’s tireless efforts that the company was born. Marlene Katz
has been captivating audiences with her first person portraits of women
in history for over a decade with presentations at museums, libraries,
societies, historic and corporate events as well as academic
institutions. Free admission.
Historic Oxford Schoolhouse at
Ironwoods Park [Web
Site]
147th and Mission Rd., Leawood, KS
(913) 339-6700 ext. 157
22 May, Saturday, See description for
times
American and Foreign Officers to Discuss U.N. Peacekeeping Experiences
Military officers from eight nations who served as U.N. peacekeepers
will share their experiences with the Kansas City community during U.N.
Peacekeepers Day at the Truman Library and U.N. Peace Plaza. The
roundtable program honors U.N. peacekeepers who gave their lives in
efforts to secure the peace. During 2009, 121 U.N. peacekeepers were
killed in the line of duty; most of the losses occurred during the
Haitian earthquake in January. Since the first U.N. peacekeeping
operation was established in 1948, 2,790 peacekeepers have given their
lives. The Peacekeeper Roundtable will be moderated by Jack Hembree, Lt.
Colonel, U.S. Army, retired, and president of the Springfield, Missouri
chapter of the United Nations Association. Following the program, there
will be a wreath laying ceremony at the U.N. Peace Plaza in memory of
all the U.N. peacekeepers who have died in the past year while carrying
out missions mandated by the world community. The peace plaza is located
approximately one mile from the Truman Library. The event is free and
open to the public. Visit the website for a schedule of events and to
register for the reception.
United Nations Association -- Kansas City Chapter [Website]
22 May, Saturday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Celebrate the Ladies of West Port and Early Kansas City
Meet some of the famous and infamous ladies of Old West Port and Early
Kansas City at the 1855 Harris-Kearney House and hear their stories of
joy, love, family, heartache, and survival. Join Annie Chambers, Mary
Francis Ward, Hattie Kearney, Sarah Candler Coats, Aunt Minerva,
Berenice Chouteau, and others for Pall Mall (early croquet) on the lawn,
tea on the veranda, children’s games, music and much more. The event is
free, but donations are appreciated.
Westport Historical Society [Web
Site]
4000 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-561-1821
25 May, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6
p.m.)
Author Presentation: Tom and Jack, The Intertwined Lives of Thomas Hart
Benton and Jackson Pollock
Henry Adams unfolds a poignant personal drama that provides new insights
into two of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The drip paintings
of Jackson Pollock, trailblazing abstract expressionist, appear to be the
polar opposite of Thomas Hart Benton’s highly figurative Americana. Yet
the two men had a close and highly charged relationship dating from
Pollock’s days as a student under Benton. Pollock’s first and only formal
training came from Benton, a man who soon became a surrogate father to
Pollock. The presentation is free, but reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
25 May, Tuesday, 6 p.m.
Community Curator Program: Historic Hat Collection
Learn about Kansas City Museum’s historic hat collection with our May
Community Curator, Ann Brownfield, at Union Station. The Hat collection
was recently featured in Kansas City Museum’s Exhibit in Print, Natural
History on the Head: Contemporary Artists, Historical Fashion. Ann
Brownfield is the director of the Historic Garment District Museum in
Kansas City. The Community Curator program invites historians and history
educators to share their perspectives on artifacts they choose from the
Museum collection. The program is held at Union Station, 30 W.
Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas City Museum at
Corinthian Hall [Web
Site]
3218 Gladstone Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64123
816-483-8300
26 May, Wednesday, Noon - 1 p.m.
The Battle of Rock Creek
Bring your brown bag lunch to the Truman Memorial Building, located at 416
North Pleasant, and join Michael Calvert, President of the Civil War
Roundtable of Western Missouri, to hear about the Battle of Rock Creek
fought on June 13, 1861. War fervor was at a high level across the country
and no less so within the City of Independence. The Home Guard was called
out to protect the local citizenry from the invading Yankee army early on
in the summer of 1861. Discover why sometimes your comrades in arms can be
your worst enemy. Refreshments and dessert will be provided. This is a
FREE event. Additional information:
wshay@indepmo.org
City of Independence, Historic Preservation [Web
Site]
111 East Maple, Independence, Missouri 816-325-7419
26 May, Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6
p.m.)
Local History: Carrie Westlake Whitney
Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Shirley Christian presents an original talk
on Carrie Westlake Whitney, librarian and director of the Kansas City
Public Library from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. During her 20-year
tenure (1881-1911), the Library eliminated a user’s fee and grew from
fewer than l,000 volumes to nearly 100,000 books. By 1911, however,
Whitney apparently fell victim to several disgruntled Board of Education
members. They announced that a man should be head librarian, so she was
demoted. Two years later she lost the assistant librarian post. The
presentation is free, but reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
27 May, Thursday, 6:30 p.m. (Reception 6 p.m.)
Author Presentation: Waiting on a Train, The Embattled Future of
Passenger Rail Service—A Year Spent Riding Across America
Veteran journalist James McCommons discusses his new book that explores
how the country may move passenger rail forward in America—and what role
government should play in creating and funding mass-transportation
systems. Against the backdrop of the nation’s stimulus program, he
explores what it will take to build high-speed trains and transportation
networks, and when the promise of rail will be realized in America. The
presentation is free, but reservations are requested
Kansas City Public Library (Central Library)
[Website]
14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO 816-701-3400
29 May, Saturday, 1
p.m.
Gold Star Mothers and World War I
Dr. Lisa Budreau, historian and author, will draw from her new book
Bodies of War: World War I and the Politics of Commemoration in America,
1919-1933 to talk about Gold Star Mothers. Book signing to follow.
This free event will be held in the Museum’s J.C. Nichols Auditorium.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
29 May, Saturday, 2 p.m.
Last Saturday Craft: We’re having Fun with Fish!
Learn about Missouri fish while doing a fishy craft. Event
is free with paid admission.
Remington Nature Center of St. Joseph [Web
Site]
1502 MacArthur Drive, St. Joseph, MO
29 May, Saturday, 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society Sale
The Kansas City Cactus and Succulent Society will have a sale at the
City Market, 5th and Delaware in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas city Cactus and Succulent Society [Website]
29 May, Saturday, 10 a.m. - Noon and 1 -
3 p.m.
Opening Day of Big Bugs Exhibit
Meet artist Dave Rogers who built the sculptures in the Big Bugs
exhibit running through October 3. Learn the twisting and bending
techniques he uses to create the 11 unnaturally large insect sculptures
including a 700-pound trio of ants and a new 10-foot-tall daddy long
legs. Join a catch and release insect safari at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (nets
provided), as youth education specialists lead a bug hunt near the
entrance to the Heartland Harvest Garden.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
29 - 30 May, Saturday -
Sunday, Various Activities
Dave Rogers’ Big Bugs Opening Weekend
Meet the artist of this exhibit—always a favorite of visitors—on Saturday
between 10 a.m. and noon and 1 to 3 p.m. See 11 unnaturally large insect
sculptures made from natural materials, from a trio of 700-pound ants to a
new 10-foot-tall Daddy Long Legs. Join a catch and release insect safari
at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday and stop by the Crawleseum throughout the
exhibit to see live bugs up close. Kids will enjoy a child-sized ant hill,
a caterpillar crawl, photo stations and art stations.
Powell Gardens
[Web
Site]
1609 NW Hwy 50, Kingsville, MO 816-697-2600
30 - 31 May, Sunday
- Monday
Vintage Military Vehicle Display
The Military Vehicle Preservation Society displays vintage military
vehicles on the Museum’s Southeast Lawn. Their members will be available
to answer your questions about their collections.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
30 May, Sunday, 5 p.m.
Mormon History Room Opens in Richmond
The newly-designed Mormon History Room at the Ray County Museum will
officially open to the public at 5 p.m. May 30. A ribbon cutting is
planned with speakers, music and refreshments. The room honors early
members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) and
settlers who played a role in the history of Richmond including the
Whitmer and Cowdery families and Alexander W. Doniphan. The event is
open to the public.
Ray County Museum and Historical Society
[Web
Site]
901 W. Royal, Richmond, Mo. 816-776-2305
30 May, Sunday, 4 - 10 p.m.
Celebration at the Station
Enjoy a spectacular patriotic concert by the Kansas City Symphony. The
free performance starts at 7:30 p.m. and concludes with a fantastic
fireworks display over the Liberty Memorial Tower. Bring a blanket, chairs
or a picnic and enjoy this great tradition. For details visit
www.CelebrationAtTheStation.com.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
31 May, Monday, 9:30 a.m.
Memorial Day Observance Ceremony
A color guard parade and performances by the American Legion Band,
dedication of newly installed Walk of Honor bricks and a keynote address
by Chaplain Major R. Patrick Moore. The Museum will open immediately
following the ceremony (approximately 11 a.m.). Free parking and shuttle
service are available on May 31 from the parking lots at Grand & 27th
Streets from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918
31 May, Monday, 1 p.m.
Movie: Gold Star Mothers: Pilgrimage of Remembrance
See the 2004 film (60 minutes) which is part of the “The Great War, the
Great Movies” Series. Produced by the University of Illinois Public
Television Station, the film examines government-funded trips that took
mothers to WWI cemeteries. This free event will be held in the Museum’s
J.C. Nichols Auditorium.
National World War I
Museum at Liberty Memorial [Web
Site]
100 West 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108 816-784-1918 |
