In 1838, Kansas City was founded and eventually surpassed neighboring Westport to become the predominant city west of St. Louis. The area was also a focal point in the westward expansion of the …

We scoured the history books, took a look at the last 180 or so years of Kansas City history and cherry-picked the moments and movements that shaped the city we live in today.

Learn about your trip to the Missouri Valley Room.

The origins of Kansas City date to the early 1800s, when French fur traders arrived by the Missouri River and built rough cabins along the river. The town of Kansas was formed in 1838 and a trail connecting …

Jul 6, 2023 · Explore the founding and early years of this remarkable metropolis, from its humble riverfront beginnings to its rise as a thriving hub of commerce and culture. Discover the triumphs, …

Jun 14, 2025 · Together, these stories reveal Kansas City as a frontier settlement turned cultural and civic contender, shaped by both grassroots resilience and national currents.

Kansas City’s history reminds us that progress is never linear—and that the fight for a better future is always rooted in understanding the past. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an activist, …

“Kansas City” was formed by the merger of Westport and the City of Kansas.

Learn history as you explore Kansas City's neighborhoods. There are hundreds of historical marker and landmarks worth visiting in the KC metro. Links to some of our favorite websites and mobile …

Kansas City's impressive history includes changes of ownership between the British, the French and the Spanish, before it was signed over to the newly formed United States in 1803.