President Harry Truman called Kansas City home.
The greater Kansas City area, which straddles the Missouri and Kansas Rivers in both Missouri and Kansas, is known for several famous homes, including some that date from the 1800s when Kansas City was a gateway to the West. Kansas City's architectural gems include homes of former U.S. presidents and artists. All are open for tours and private functions.
Harry S. Truman Home
One of Kansas City's most famous homes is that of former U.S. President Harry S. Truman. Truman lived in suburban Independence, Missouri. Tours of his 14-room restored Victorian begin at the U.S. Park Service (nps.gov) Visitor Center, which is located in one of Independence's historic fire houses. Truman moved into the home with his wife Bess in 1919 and returned to live there after his presidency. The Trumans spent 50 years in the home.
Alexander Majors Historic Home and Museum
The Alexander Majors Home and Museum (alexandermajors.com) in Kansas City offers visitors a look into the life of frontiersman Alexander Majors, credited with starting the Pony Express. The 3,400-square foot, two-story antebellum-style house, which was built in 1856, includes the original millwork and hardwood flooring. Mid-1800s tools and work wagons are displayed on the property and visitors can watch blacksmith demonstrations.
Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio
The Thomas Hart Benton Home and Art Studio is owned and maintained by the Missouri State Parks (mostateparks.com). Benton was a Missouri-born artist and writer as well as a sculptor and painter. Benton died in his studio in 1975. Many of the original furnishings and art supplies are on display.
John Wornall House Museum
The two-story brick homestead of former Kentucky farmer, banker and real estate developer John Wornall was built in 1858 in the Greek Revival style. The John Wornall House Museum (wornallhouse.org) is in Kansas City's Brookside neighborhood. The home and property play host to Easter egg hunts, school tours and private birthday parties.
Grinter Place
Grinter Place (kshs.org) was built in the mid-1800s by Moses Grinter, who operated a Kansas River ferry and trading post and farmed the property with his Lenape Indian wife Annie. The house tour includes the trading post and an apple orchard.
