Independence, Missouri: Historical Town Building For The Future

Independence is the fifth largest city in the state of Missouri. It’s located just east of Kansas City, off Interstate 70 and Interstate 470. It’s a community still remembering its historical past and building upon it for future generations.

There are numerous educational opportunities in Independence. Students attend the Independence School DistrictFort OsageRaytown Quality Schools, and the award-winning Blue Springs School District. Check with your Realtor for your neighborhood’s specific school district.

Independence Schools offer special academies nurturing students looking for careers in the arts, business, industrial technology, public service, and STEM.

The school district features one of Kansas City’s premier swimming facilities at the Henley Aquatic Center.

There are also numerous higher educational opportunities at Park UniversityNational American UniversityGraceland University, and Metropolitan Community College-Blue River Campus.

About Independence, MO

Independence Mo. is steeped in history, and celebrates it often. The city’s most famous resident, President Harry Truman, loved the city so much he returned after his time in the White House.

The People’s President left a mark on his hometown. You can follow his journey as you walk through his neighborhood, visit The Truman HomeHarry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, and the building where Truman first worked. It’s now home to Clinton’s Soda Fountain. Yet another nod to the deep history in Independence.

Independence Square is the historical center of the city. The Historic Truman Courthouse is the heart of the square, with a history that pre-dates Truman himself. The building and city’s deep history lives on through the Historical Society, located in the Historic Truman Courthouse.

The Historical Society runs the 1859 Jail and Marshal’s Home and Museum. The buildings date back to the Missouri-Kansas Border war and Great Depression.

Near Independence Square, you’ll also find the Bingham Waggoner Estate. The estate is well preserved with 90-percent of the original furniture, carpets, and paintings. Get a glimpse of 19th century Independence real estate.

Learn about the wagon trails at the National Frontier Trails Museum. The museum offers a glimpse into the lives of pioneers riding in the wagon trails.

The Chicago & Alton Depot is the only fully restored two story train depot in Missouri. It’s still furnished like it was in 1879.

Vaile Mansion was called “the most princely house and the most comfortable home in the entire west” in 1882. Located a mile from Independence Square, the Gothic structure stands out for its architecture. Colonel and Mrs. Harvey Vaile built the mansion in 1881.

Growing business community

While remembering its past, and celebrating it, the city of Independence also looks forward. With more than 150,000 cars passing the city each day on the major highways that pass alongside Independence, the city continues to develop new business opportunities.

The Little Blue Parkway is the latest development, with 38 miles of land open for development. It’s estimated that by 2020, an extra 20,000 people will come this area home and the office, retail, and industrial development will create 5,000 jobs.

Recreation

The city has over 40 parks and trails. Whether you’re looking for a playground, spray ground, or biking trail you’ll find it at one of the parks. The Little Blue Trace Trail features 14 miles of biking through a nature preserve.

You can also escape city life at the George Owens Nature Park or Japanese Garden.

The city also has 3 public golf courses.

Independence is home to the Kansas City Mavericks, a professional hockey team. There’s also a community ice rink.

Reacreation in Independence
Photo courtesy of the Independence Department of Tourism, Visit Independence.

Quick Facts

  • Population 117,030
  • High school graduate or higher – 87.6%
  • Mean travel time to work – 23.9 minutes
  • Median home value – $98,600
  • Household Income $43,472

Photos courtesy of the Independence Department of Tourism, Visit Independence.

Sally Moore is a Kansas City area realtor with Keller Williams. She specializes in new construction, resales, and home staging. See the difference with FREE home staging. Follow The Sally Moore Real Estate Team on Facebook for the latest real estate trends.

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