Go West Young Man, Go West
Hot Fun in the Summertime Series
During the 1800's Independence, Missouri was a hub of activity. It was the start of something that promised to be big. People were in search of that elusive pot of gold that would hopefully lead to their fair share of the American dream. Independence is known as the "Queen City of the Trails". More importantly the Santa Fe, California and Oregon Trails began here.
This story is so well told at the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, Missouri. According to its brochure, "The National Frontier Trails Museum is the only museum, library and archives in the nation exclusively devoted to the history of the daring pioneers using quotes from journals and diaries, original illustrations and artifacts they left behind".
When visiting this museum plan on staying for a few hours because there is so much to take in. Children will love it because they have a lot of hands-on activities for them that will reinforce the story of this historic trail. Although not the voices of the pioneers, visitors will be riveted by the stirring accounts that are recorded on tape. It puts you right there in the moment.
You will be tempted to climb on the huge covered wagon filled with wares that a typical family would need for such a long and uncomfortable journey. Visitors will also get a glimpse into the many explorations of Lewis and Clark. Would you believe that you can still see authentic wagon swales outside the museum that give verification of this migration westward ?
The National Frontier Trails Museum is located at 318 West Pacific Ave. They are opened Monday to Saturday from 9 to 4:30 and Sunday from 12:30 to 4:30. Admission is $6.00 for adults, $5.00 seniors (62+), $3.00 Youth (6-17) and Free for children 5 and under. Contact them at 816-325-7575 or online at www.frontiertrailsmuseum.org.
This museum is one that will give visitors a unique and interesting perspective into pioneer living and its history. I definitely enjoyed making a day trip out of it.
SOURCE:
National Frontier Trails Museum brochure
Personal experience
This story is so well told at the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, Missouri. According to its brochure, "The National Frontier Trails Museum is the only museum, library and archives in the nation exclusively devoted to the history of the daring pioneers using quotes from journals and diaries, original illustrations and artifacts they left behind".
When visiting this museum plan on staying for a few hours because there is so much to take in. Children will love it because they have a lot of hands-on activities for them that will reinforce the story of this historic trail. Although not the voices of the pioneers, visitors will be riveted by the stirring accounts that are recorded on tape. It puts you right there in the moment.
You will be tempted to climb on the huge covered wagon filled with wares that a typical family would need for such a long and uncomfortable journey. Visitors will also get a glimpse into the many explorations of Lewis and Clark. Would you believe that you can still see authentic wagon swales outside the museum that give verification of this migration westward ?
The National Frontier Trails Museum is located at 318 West Pacific Ave. They are opened Monday to Saturday from 9 to 4:30 and Sunday from 12:30 to 4:30. Admission is $6.00 for adults, $5.00 seniors (62+), $3.00 Youth (6-17) and Free for children 5 and under. Contact them at 816-325-7575 or online at www.frontiertrailsmuseum.org.
This museum is one that will give visitors a unique and interesting perspective into pioneer living and its history. I definitely enjoyed making a day trip out of it.
SOURCE:
National Frontier Trails Museum brochure
Personal experience
Published by Lee Hansen
I am a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. My parents raised 10 children. I have an Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Education. View profile
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21 Comments
Post a CommentLove history events such as this.
Super neat, thanks Lee!
Sounds like a fun place.
Sounds like a fun place and a very reasonable price. Thanks for the info!
Excellent article as always. Thanks!
Great place to visit!
Lee good article nice job Laura Everly
Love museums. Good one.
Another great activity~I need 9 lives to enjoy all the sights about which you have written! You should be in the travel business, Lee~
Great!