Kansas City Archives - Our Changing Life

Museum of BBQ in Kansas City

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:11:38 +0000

We felt a familiar sense of hometown comfort as we walked into the Museum of BBQ. We were exploring a place that celebrates the flavors and stories we have grown up appreciating right here in Kansas City. The Museum of BBQ set the stage for a journey through American barbecue traditions while still carrying the warm spirit of our own community. It was the kind of visit that reminded us why Kansas City BBQ has always felt like part of our personal story.

Being locals gave the experience a different rhythm. We were not discovering Kansas City through the eyes of travelers this time. Instead, we were peeling back a layer on something that has shaped our neighborhood meals, our conversations, and our weekend wanderings for years. Walking through those doors felt like finding a new chapter in a book we thought we already knew well.

Every display called to mind meals from past travels where smoke curled above pits in Carolina towns, Texas crossroads, and Mississippi Delta neighborhoods. Here in Kansas City, those memories seemed to gather under one roof, inviting us to follow the long path of American barbecue traditions with renewed curiosity.

. We want to thank the Museum of BBQ for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

Finding Our Way Around This Flavor Filled Museum

The museum rests comfortably inside Crown Center, a place we have wandered through many times during our Kansas City adventures. Its central location makes it easy for travelers and locals to reach, and we felt that familiar sense of welcome as soon as we stepped inside. Regular hours currently run from 10 in the morning to 6 in the evening, though they may shift with the season. Admission is $15 for adults, with reduced pricing for children and seniors. That balance makes it an inviting stop for nearly any itinerary.

We were greeted like old friends and found ourselves drifting into familiar BBQ-based conversation. The museum is self-guided, but we were offered some helpful advice to optimize our visit. After checking out the wide range of sauces for sale (so many were familiar names), we were ready to begin our smoke-filled journey through BBQ history.

Letting the Smoke Tell Its Story

Smoke has always been our quiet guide at barbecue spots across North America, and the museum captured its importance with a clarity that drew us in. We stood before a display that showed how a proper bark begins to form when spice rubs meet low heat and steady smoke. It reminded us of moments when we saw that dark, textured surface on brisket or ribs and knew we were about to taste something shaped by time rather than haste. A strong bark signaled a confident hand behind the pit.

A nearby display introduced different types of smokers, each offering its own personality. We learned how offset smokers work: heat travels from the firebox into the main chamber, giving the cook firm control over airflow. Vertical smokers use rising heat that circulates through stacked racks, while pellet smokers rely on compressed wood for precise temperature control. Seeing them side by side reminded us that every style, from traditional brick pits to modern steel rigs, shapes the final bite in its own quiet way.

Seeing the science presented so plainly made us appreciate how much technique hides behind each plate. Learning how smoke works its slow magic feels familiar now.

Playing Our Way Through Barbecue History

The museum surprised us by going far beyond static displays. It invites visitors to step directly into the story through thoughtful hands-on experiences. We appreciated how these interactive moments added movement and laughter to a subject that is often taught through quiet observation. It created a sense of play that made history feel alive.

The smoke ring toss taunted us as we took turns trying to land a ring on the mounted horns. It carried the same spirit we have found at roadside attractions, where simple games spark shared joy and elicit plenty of laughs.

The butcher shop play area added another layer of immersion. It echoes the early markets where butchers shaped the traditions that would guide American barbecue. I enjoyed donning an apron and serving up Crystal some fresh-cut selections.

The sauce pad station rounded out our playful experiences, as we stepped across soft, squishy pads. Before long, we found ourselves dancing to the vibe of a Saturday barbecue. This exhibit reminded us how creativity and flavor often go hand in hand.

Wandering Through the Woods

A wall lined with smoking woods invited us to imagine how flavor begins long before the meat reaches the pit. Hickory, pecan, oak, and cherry each carried memories from past trips where the wood choice shaped everything about the final bite. We thought back to one of the most unique experiences when we visited a smokehouse in Quebec City. We know that Kansas City BBQ often leans on hickory for its rich and steady burn, while apple or cherry softens the edges of pork with a gentle sweetness.

The museum deepened the experience by highlighting the difference between low-and-slow cooking and the hot-and-fast technique that has become popular in some modern settings. Low and slow relies on controlled heat and patient smoke to break down connective tissue and draw flavor deep into the meat. Hot and fast uses higher temperatures to create tenderness more quickly while still preserving a kiss of smoke. Standing there, we remembered meals shaped by both methods and how each left its own impression.

Looking at the woods again, we felt reminded that flavor begins with the land itself. The trees, the climate, and the way each region learned to use them all play a part in the story. This wall of wood made us appreciate how every pitmaster starts with the same simple choice and ends with a creation that carries the identity of the place it was cooked in.

Walking Into the Heart of Texas Beef Culture

Texas BBQ is filled with the spirit of open skies and long cattle trails. We examined a display that explained how brisket became the centerpiece of Texas identity, shaped by ranching heritage and long days of smoking over steady heat. We felt transported back to our first Texas smokehouse, where the pitmaster sliced brisket onto butcher paper.

The museum highlighted the rich crust and deep flavor that define Texas plates, and we found ourselves nodding as we remembered meals shaped by pepper, patience, and proud tradition.

Exploring Texas Traditions One Region at a Time

Texas carries so many stories within its vast borders. Central Texas celebrates simple seasoning, while East Texas leans toward sweeter sauces. South Texas adds its own influence from border culture, and each region claims a side dish that completes the meal. We recalled evenings when a bowl of pinto beans or a scoop of creamed corn turned a good plate into something unforgettable.

The museum handled these differences with clarity and warmth, helping us appreciate how every town and diner adds its own voice to the larger Texas conversation.

Sinking Into the Soft Joy of the Bean Ball Pit

During our exploration of side dishes, we happened on a giant bean ball pit. The soft spheres were designed to replicate a bowl of baked beans, and we couldn’t wait to dive in. Inside, we felt like kids again, and soon the room filled with our laughter.

The bean pit felt like a gentle reminder that barbecue has always been more than technique. It has been a source of connection and shared delight, and the museum captured that spirit beautifully.

Remembering Memphis One Rib at a Time

After finally escaping the bean pit, we moved further into our study of regional barbecue techniques. The Memphis section brought us back to plates of dry-rub ribs we discovered during a visit to Beale Street. We could almost taste the blend of paprika, pepper, and smoke as we stood before the displays. We remembered reading about pitmasters who believed that ribs should stand tall on their own without hiding behind sauce.

The museum honored this tradition with respect, reminding us that Memphis helped shape the broader landscape of American barbecue. It’s a strong belief that we can sink our teeth into, and have whenever we visit the “Home of the Blues”.

Following the Mustard Trail Through Carolina

Reading about Carolina BBQ felt like entering the cradle of American barbecue, a place where whole hog cooking shaped the earliest traditions that would later spread across the country. The coastal communities and inland farms began developing their own methods long before barbecue became a national passion. We admired how the mustard-based sauce emerged from the influence of German settlers, creating a bright, tangy flavor that has become a signature of the region.

We have never stood beside a Carolina pit as a whole hog was lowered inside, yet we have tasted the remarkable results. The museum helped us understand how long and steady heat transforms the entire hog into tender layers that carry both smoke and subtle sweetness. We remembered meals where the meat seemed to melt beneath the fork and where mustard sauce added a lively note that stayed with us long after the plate was empty. Thinking back on those moments reminded us why Carolina remains such an essential chapter in the story of barbecue and why its influence can still be felt at tables across North America.

Coming Home to Kansas City Variety

The Kansas City BBQ section welcomed us with its wide range of meats and flavors. Burnt ends, ribs, sausage, turkey, and chicken all found a place in the local story, and the museum captured that abundance with pride. We always loved how Kansas City embraced creativity while still honoring the foundations of slow cooking.

As locals and travelers, we felt proud to see our hometown’s style represented with such balance. It reminded us why Kansas City BBQ has become a crossroads of traditions across North America.

Meeting the Legends Who Built Kansas City BBQ

When we reached the section honoring Henry Perry, we stood quietly for a moment, letting his story settle in. Perry arrived in Kansas City in the early twentieth century and began serving smoked meats wrapped in newsprint to workers along the riverfront. His bold seasoning and steady smoke created a style that felt distinct even in its earliest form. The museum explained how his tiny stand grew into a local fixture and how his influence helped shape the expectations of a city that would come to cherish barbecue as part of its identity.

As we moved farther into the gallery, we felt the presence of the Gates family, whose growth from a single restaurant into a celebrated Kansas City institution showed how Perry’s foundation inspired new generations. Their commitment to flavor and community helped define a period when barbecue became a shared experience across neighborhoods. The museum also highlighted Arthur Bryant, whose restaurant became a destination for travelers, writers, and anyone who believed that a plate of ribs could reveal something honest about a place. His approach connected simplicity with character, creating meals that people still remember years after their first visit.

Walking through these stories reminded us how Kansas City BBQ was shaped not by one hand but by a lineage of cooks who understood the power of smoke, seasoning, and generosity. Each figure refined the craft while honoring the roots laid down before them. We left that section feeling grateful to live in a city where the founders of our favorite meals are remembered with such care. Their legacy continues to shape every new bite.

Taking a Tour of Sauces Across the Continent

The museum devoted an inviting section to sauces, and we found ourselves studying the variations as if comparing old friends. Alabama white caught our eye first with its creamy tang born from mayonnaise, vinegar, and pepper. We remembered how this sauce pairs beautifully with smoked chicken and adds a gentle brightness to each bite. North Carolina vinegar represented an older tradition, one shaped by simplicity and a clean finish that cuts through the richness of pork in a way that feels both timeless and refreshing.

Kansas City molasses-based sauce is a familiar neighbor, carrying the deep sweetness and slow-cooked warmth that we have tasted in so many hometown meals. We appreciated how the museum traced its development through local cooking styles that value richness and balance. Kentucky black sauce introduces a very different note with its thin texture and bold, dark flavor built from vinegar and Worcestershire. We thought back to meals where its sharp character added a lively contrast to smoked mutton.

The exhibit also offered a friendly nod to the Carolina mustard traditions we explored earlier, reminding us that the German-influenced blend adds a sunny flavor that stands apart from the sweeter or sharper profiles found elsewhere. Texans are known for placing sauce gently on the side rather than letting it lead the meal. Standing before this wall of flavors, we felt grateful for the variety that stretches across North America and for the stories each bottle carries from pit to plate.

Feeling the Energy of the American Royal

The museum devoted a thoughtful section to the American Royal World Series of Barbecue. This competition has shaped Kansas City’s identity for decades. The American Royal began as a livestock show in the nineteenth century and grew into one of the most respected barbecue gatherings in the world. Over the years, it has drawn pitmasters of every background and tradition. Each brings regional pride and personal history to the smoky fields where they compete for top honors. Learning how the event evolved helped us appreciate the depth of its influence on American barbecue culture.

We felt a personal connection to this part of the exhibit because we have been blessed with the opportunity to wander through the competitor camps during past events. Those visits stay with us even now. We remembered the glow of evening light settling over rows of smokers and the gentle rumble of conversation as cooks tended their fires. Every camp carried its own rhythm, shaped by family teams, seasoned professionals, and newcomers eager to make their mark. Standing in those spaces felt like stepping into a living story where tradition and creativity meet beneath drifting ribbons of smoke.

Celebrating Pork Ribs and the Joy of Sweet Heat

Ribs have always been one of my personal measures of a restaurant’s craft, and the museum gave this beloved dish the attention it deserves. We studied the displays and thought about the different variations that so many Kansas City pitmasters have perfected. Each type carries its own balance of tenderness and flavor. Baby backs offer a slightly leaner bite, while spare ribs deliver more profound richness and a texture that responds beautifully to long hours of smoke. The St. Louis cut sits between the two, trimmed for uniformity and prized for its steady, satisfying chew. The museum also acknowledged the bold presence of beef ribs in Texas, where the sheer size of a rib becomes part of the experience. We remembered trips when a single bone felt like an entire meal, and the slow rendering of fat created a flavor that lingered long after we left the table.

The museum included a tried-and-true recipe for Kansas City-style pork ribs, and we found ourselves smiling as we read through the steps. The method relied on a thoughtful rub that balances sweet and heat in a way that felt familiar to both of us. Reading it reminded us of afternoons spent tasting ribs across the city and noting how each pitmaster found their own expression within the shared tradition. Standing there, we felt grateful for the countless plates that have shaped our understanding of ribs and for the museum offering a recipe that felt both accessible and deeply rooted in Kansas City history.

Museum of BBQ Memories

As we completed our tour of the Museum of BBQ, we felt grateful for the way it blended storytelling, flavor, and fun. The journey through smoke, history, and play reminded us why barbecue continues to connect people across North America.

Now we find ourselves curious about your story. Which regional style calls to you the most? Is it Texas pepper, Carolina tang, Memphis spice, or Kansas City sweet heat? We’d love to hear your rich stories of smoke and flavor. Drop a comment below with the best BBQ you’ve found in North America. We’d love to add it to our long list of favorites.

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John Wornall House: A Haunting Civil War Legacy

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000

The John Wornall House, located at 6115 Wornall Road in Kansas City, Missouri, stands as one of the city’s most iconic historic sites. On National Civil War Day, we joined fellow history enthusiasts for a visit marked by living history exhibits that brought the 19th century vividly back to life. Volunteers in period dress spoke of moments from daily life in the years leading up to the nation’s bloodiest conflict. This offered a powerful gateway into understanding the city’s ties to the Civil War. The John Wornall House is not only a preserved family home but also a monument to the turmoil, tragedy, and resilience that defined the American frontier during its most divisive era.

Tours That Bring the Past Alive

Standing at the doorway, visitors are met with the opportunity to join guided tours that delve into the layered history of the property. Our guide spoke with a measured authority, weaving together stories that revealed both the beauty and the brutality hidden within these walls. Rooms were presented not merely as static displays but as living testaments to the families, soldiers, and enslaved people whose lives once intersected here. Each stop along the way peeled back another layer of the past, making it impossible to ignore the echoes of history lingering in every creaking floorboard. These tours at the John Wornall House do more than showcase artifacts; they breathe life into Civil War history in Kansas City, allowing visitors to confront the complexities of an era often shrouded in myth and nostalgia.

A House of Striking Beauty

On the surface, the Wornall House is a striking example of Greek Revival architecture. Its white columns stand proudly against the Kansas City skyline. Constructed in 1858, the home reflected the wealth and aspirations of its owner, John B. Wornall, who sought to project both refinement and permanence on the frontier of Missouri. The manicured grounds, wide porches, and well-proportioned rooms demonstrate the elegance of the period. It offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a 1800s prosperous family. For visitors, the beauty of the John Wornall House is immediately apparent in its craftsmanship. As the sunlight filters through the tall windows, it illuminates the polished wood floors. The home’s aesthetic charm serves as a striking contrast to the darker truths that lie just beneath its surface.

Slavery’s Dark Shadow Within the Walls

As the tour continued, the veneer of beauty gave way to the haunting reality of slavery, which was a cornerstone of the Wornall household. Exhibits displayed shackles and personal accounts that cast a chilling shadow across the ornate rooms. Our guide spoke candidly about the enslaved men, women, and children who toiled in the fields, prepared meals, and maintained the household while living under the constant threat of violence and separation. The tragic juxtaposition of refinement and bondage created a gripping reminder that grandeur often came at the expense of human suffering. For visitors exploring Civil War history in Kansas City, the John Wornall House serves as an unflinching lens into a past where privilege was built on the exploitation of others.

The Wornalls as Slaveholders

The Wornall family was not only part of Kansas City’s rising elite but also deeply entrenched in the system of slavery. John B. Wornall owned at least seven enslaved people by the outbreak of the Civil War. This fact challenges the genteel image projected by the household. Their names and stories, often lost to history, are slowly being uncovered by modern research and interpretation. This focus on the Wornalls as slaveholders forces a reevaluation of the site’s legacy, ensuring that the voices of the enslaved are no longer silenced. For visitors, this revelation underscores the importance of acknowledging the full spectrum of history, not merely the comfortable or flattering aspects. The John Wornall House becomes more than a preserved mansion—it becomes a stage for confronting the moral complexities of America’s past.

Childhood Stolen by Bondage

Among the most poignant sections of the tour were the stories of enslaved children. While free children in Kansas City played with toys, attended lessons, and dreamed of the future, enslaved children at the Wornall House were forced into labor at an early age. They carried water, tended fires, and assisted in the endless tasks of maintaining a household that was not their own. The exhibits revealed how childhood was stripped away, replaced with duties and fears that no young person should endure. These tragic contrasts highlighted the deep inequities of the time and brought the realities of slavery into sharper focus. The John Wornall House thus serves as a reminder that even the youngest members of enslaved families bore the crushing weight of bondage during this era.

The “Gettysburg of the West”

The grounds of the Wornall House were forever marked by the Battle of Westport, fought in October 1864. Known as the “Gettysburg of the West,” this clash was one of the most significant battles west of the Mississippi, involving nearly 30,000 soldiers. Standing near the property, we could imagine the thunder of artillery and the chaos that once enveloped the quiet lanes of Kansas City. Union forces ultimately secured a decisive victory, pushing Confederate troops out of Missouri. This marked a turning point in the region’s Civil War history. The John Wornall House stands as a silent witness to that day, its walls absorbing the terror, bravery, and tragedy that unfolded just beyond its doors.

A House of Healing and Horror

After the smoke of battle cleared, the Wornall House took on yet another grim role: that of a field hospital for both Union and Confederate soldiers. The elegant rooms became sites of unimaginable suffering as makeshift operating tables bore witness to crude medical procedures. Surgeons worked without anesthesia, and infection claimed countless lives. Bloodied uniforms, groans of the wounded, and the desperation of overworked attendants transformed the once-grand residence into a place of agony and survival. This chapter of the John Wornall House underscores the brutal realities of 19th-century medicine and the indiscriminate toll of war. By standing in those same rooms today, visitors are confronted with the stark reminders of human cost etched deeply into the history of the Civil War in Kansas City.

Closing Our Visit in the Kitchen

Our journey ended in the kitchen, a space where everyday family life intersected with the larger forces of history. Here, stories of the Wornalls’ domestic routines mingled with the legacy of those who labored unseen to sustain them. The room felt both ordinary and extraordinary, a place where meals once simmered alongside the struggles of survival and the changes that came with them. Visiting the John Wornall House left us with a lasting impression of the fragility of peace and the weight of conflict. Have you walked through this storied home and felt its haunting past come alive? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your experiences in the comments below — and share this article with others who are eager to uncover the gripping Civil War history that shaped Kansas City.

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Time Traveling at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Just a short drive from Kansas City, we found ourselves pulling into the parking lot at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop (1200 E. Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS). Right away, it felt like stepping into a sepia-toned photograph, one where the horses still outnumber cars and chimney smoke carries the scent of wood-fired ovens. This isn’t just a museum—it’s a living history site, where the 1860s are alive and well. Kids were climbing into a stagecoach, reenactors were dressed to the nines, and we could already hear the ring of the blacksmith’s hammer echoing across the breeze. We’ve always gravitated toward places that bring history to life, and Mahaffie does it with personality and purpose. Our visit coincided with their annual Independence Day celebration, which added a touch of star-spangled magic to our journey through time.

We want to thank Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop for hosting our visit. Rest assured, all photos and opinions are our own.

The Mahaffie Family Builds a Legacy

Before this place became a destination for curious folks like us, it was just a patch of prairie that James and Lucinda Mahaffie saw promise in. They arrived in Olathe in 1857 and, by 1865, had built the sturdy limestone house that still stands today. With the westward migration in full swing, the Mahaffies turned their home into a bustling stagecoach stop along the Santa Fe Trail. It’s hard to imagine the long, bumpy rides travelers endured, but even harder to imagine making the trip without a hearty meal and a place to rest, both of which the Mahaffies provided. One surprising tidbit we learned: the Mahaffie house is the only original stagecoach stop still open to the public on the Santa Fe Trail. That alone made us glad we made the detour.

Trading and Trails on the Prairie

In the 1860s, this region served as a crossroads of commerce, conversation, and cattle trade. Olathe sat squarely along the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California trails, which turned spots like the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop into critical lifelines for weary travelers and mail carriers. Stagecoaches weren’t just transportation—they were connectors of culture and economy. Merchants, military couriers, and even politicians passed through, often elbow-to-elbow with pioneers chasing promises further west. It wasn’t hard to imagine wagons pulling in, loaded with dry goods, bolts of cloth, or maybe even crates of newspapers. I pictured buffalo robes being traded here, which would have been especially prized during the colder months.

Echoes of the Civil War

History rarely runs in a straight line, and the Civil War carved deep grooves into the Kansas landscape—both literally and figuratively. The Mahaffie property straddled a region that was fiercely divided. Kansas was a free state, but its neighbor, Missouri, wasn’t. Border skirmishes weren’t just stories—they were Saturday night realities. Though the Mahaffies were Union supporters, they still opened their doors to those in need. Troop movements sometimes relied on stage stops like this for quick meals or changing horses. During our visit, I couldn’t help but imagine soldiers huddled near the hearth or scribbling letters home on the same wooden porch we stood on. These kinds of places weren’t just waypoints—they were witnesses to the turmoil and resilience of a nation trying to hold itself together.

Farm Life and Fiery Sparks

Heading outside, we discovered that the farm buzzes with life just like it might have in the 19th century. We wandered past gardens lined with heirloom vegetables. Down by the barn, the rhythmic clink of metal against an anvil drew us into the blacksmith shop. Inside, a reenactor stoked the forge, sending sparks flying as she shaped red-hot iron. We lingered near the blacksmith’s fiery forge, soaking up the clang of history. It’s one thing to read about early travel on the plains, but it’s another to hear the creak of wagon wheels and smell fresh hay underfoot. It all reminded us of how closely people were tied to the land and the labor it required.

The Heart of the Home—Below Ground

Back at the house, we ducked into the stone basement, where the cool air offered a brief relief from the July sun. Here, the kitchen was alive with the scent of cinnamon and apples. A costumed cook—apron and all—was elbow-deep in dough, rolling out crusts for apple pies that looked good enough to time-travel for. We chatted about frontier foodways and learned a little about the recipes used in the olden days. I hadn’t realized just how seasonal and practical their meals had to be. Everything in this kitchen had a job, from the butter churn to the iron stove. Watching the pies go into the oven, it was clear that this space wasn’t just for cooking—it was where memories were made and family was fed.

Upstairs with the Mahaffie Children

Climbing the narrow staircase brought us into the family’s quarters. The children’s room, with its pint-sized beds and hand-sewn quilts, had a sweetness to it that felt timeless. On a small table rested a handful of 1800s-era toys—whirligigs, wooden blocks, and even a cup-and-ball game that brought back memories of my childhood. Crystal enjoys this personal side of history. This part of the tour felt intimate. It reminded us that behind every historic site are real people who once argued over chores, comforted teething babies, and whispered bedtime stories under the same beams we stood beneath. It’s those little human details that make places like the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop more than just preserved buildings—they’re preserved lives.

Stars, Stripes, and Stirrings of Pride

Our visit coincided with Mahaffie’s annual Independence Day celebration, and it was nothing short of spirited. In the shade of an old oak, we gathered with dozens of others to hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence. Afterwards, Uncle Sam and Lady Columbia took the stage in full red, white, and blue regalia. They entertained the crowd with songs that had people singing along. I found myself humming along to the patriotic tunes echoing across the lawn. Something was comforting in hearing those familiar words in such a historic setting, like the past and present were shaking hands for a brief, meaningful moment.

A Game for the Ages

We capped off our visit by taking in an old-fashioned base ball game—yes, that’s how they spelled it back then. The rules were a little different (no gloves!), but the excitement was familiar. Players in vintage uniforms ran the bases as cheers rang out from the wooden bleachers. It was the kind of moment that makes you feel like you’re part of a Norman Rockwell painting—sun in the sky, flags fluttering, laughter in the air. As we made our way back to the car, I looked back at the field one last time and thought how lucky we are to have places like the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop still. It’s not just about looking back—it’s about carrying those stories forward. If you’ve ever wanted to walk through history and shake its hand, this is the place to do it.

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Kansas City Automotive Museum – Revved-Up Nostalgia

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:18:26 +0000

Tucked away in Olathe, Kansas, the Kansas City Automotive Museum is like stumbling across a time capsule with a V8 engine. Located at 15095 W. 116th Street, this unassuming building hides a treasure trove of vehicles that span generations, eras, and almost every chrome accent imaginable. On the day we visited, the scent of old leather, engine oil, and nostalgia hit us right at the door—and I swear, somewhere in the distance, I heard a Beach Boys song faintly playing. As Crystal admired the sparkling paint jobs, I remembered the myriad of muscle cars I’ve owned. This place revs up the imagination as much as the memories.

Model T Takes the Spotlight

Front and center during our visit was a display of Ford’s mighty Model T—a vehicle that didn’t just change the automobile industry, it created it. The Kansas City Automotive Museum rotates its featured cars every few months, and this time it was celebrating the game-changer from the early 1900s. We marveled at the rugged simplicity of the T’s build. These early vehicles had enough room for the family, maybe a picnic basket, and probably one adventurous goat. My thoughts drifted to our journeys along Route 66, America’s “Main Street” during the heyday of the Model T. Seeing all of these beauties, I couldn’t help but imagine myself in a bowler hat, bouncing down a dusty road toward a general store.

Muscle and Chrome

If the Model T was about practicality, the muscle cars were all about attitude. I couldn’t stop grinning when I spotted the 1959 Ford Thunderbird convertible gleaming like a cherry soda on wheels. But the crown jewel? A 1970 Shelby Mustang GT500 in bright yellow with those racing stripes that practically dare you to speed. I’ve got a soft spot for Fords—blame it on the Gran Torinos I proudly (and recklessly) drove back in the day. One was a similar shade of yellow, and sucked gas like a camel loading up on water. Seeing these souped-up classics brought back memories of late-night drives, crumpled paper maps, and gas station sodas bigger than our heads.

Packard Elegance

Continuing through the museum, we spotted a 1929 Packard roadster, sitting like a perfectly preserved slice of Gatsby-era grandeur. This was the car for the dinner jacket crowd, the ones who liked their jazz fast and their steering wheels wood-grained. The Packard’s 8-cylinder glimmered under the lights, and I swear you could hear it whisper, “I don’t race, I glide.” Its sweeping fenders and Art Deco dash made me want to stand up straighter. Back in its day, this ride turned heads, even if you were heading to the soda fountain. We couldn’t help but notice that the details were immaculate, right down to the hood ornament that looked ready to leap into a champagne-soaked night.

Studebaker Surprises

We rounded the corner and ran into a couple of Studebakers, which always feel like the car equivalent of finding a vintage lunchbox in the attic—unexpected and oddly charming. One in particular, a bullet-nosed 1933 Rockne, looked like it could blast off if given the correct runway. The Studebaker brand may have faded, but the designs remain bold, quirky, and unapologetically different. We learned at the Studebaker Museum that they started building wagons before shifting to cars. It makes sense since both require sturdy wheels and the occasional sense of adventure. Crystal and I could imagine ourselves cruising down a boulevard with all eyes on one of these classics.

A Trailblazer in a Jordan

One of the most powerful displays featured a name we hadn’t heard before: Homer Roberts. It turns out he was the first Black man to own and operate a car dealership in the U.S., and it just so happened to be right here in Kansas City. His elegant 1925 Jordan limousine stood proud, a symbol of resilience and style. Its long frame and dapper detailing echoed the Roaring Twenties in all the right ways. I could easily picture it cruising past Union Station with jazz notes floating out the window. Homer’s story added a historic depth to the Kansas City Automotive Museum. It’s proof that trailblazers from all walks of life shaped the automobile industry.

Whimsy on Wheels

The museum doesn’t just celebrate horsepower and high society—it also leaves room for some good ol’ fashioned whimsy. One of our favorite finds was a Ringling Bros. converted Model T. It was an unexpected treat that reminded us of our visit to the circus’s winter home in Baraboo. We also discovered a row of vintage pedal cars that looked like they rolled straight out of a 1950s holiday catalog. And then there was the 1957 Messerschmitt KR 200, a three-wheeled German microcar that looked more like an amusement park ride than a mode of transportation. At just over four feet wide, it’s a reminder that not every great car needs to be flashy—some need to spark conversation and maybe a chuckle or two.

A Rare Ride on Two Wheels

We were surprised to find the museum’s 1913 Sears motorcycle, which looked surprisingly modern despite its age. Sears, as in the catalog, sold these motorcycles via mail order. Imagine flipping past bed frames and into motorcycles. The chain-driven beast had a modest frame and a mechanical simplicity that begs closer inspection. It represented an era when machines were still finding their rhythm and folks were eager to try something bold. While it wouldn’t win any races today, this would’ve been a high-speed ticket to freedom in the early 1900s. It’s moments like these when I appreciate the Kansas City Automotive Museum’s variety—it’s not just about cars, but the culture they rode in on.

Pedal to the Metal

After hours of gawking, reading placards, and sharing stories, we couldn’t resist one last moment of silliness. The museum keeps a couple of open cars perfect for photo ops, so naturally we climbed in and struck our best “race face” pose. Crystal took the wheel and felt the power pulse through her grip. I held on for dear life, trying to avoid a panic attack. It was the perfect way to cap off a day of discovery at the Kansas City Automotive Museum. This place isn’t just for gearheads, it’s for anyone who’s ever loved a road trip, a tailfin, or the thrill of putting pedal to the metal. So tell us, what’s the favorite automobile you’ve ever owned?

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Hank’s Garage And Grill: Burgers, Tots & Tufted Stools

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 27 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Every so often, you stumble on a place that hits just the right note—Hank’s Garage and Grill, at 5801 Nieman Road in Shawnee, Kansas, is one of those spots. We pulled up with hungry bellies and open minds, curious about this new eatery getting buzz from locals who know good grub. Tucked along a strip we frequently pass, Hank’s stands out with its playful name and promises of flavor-packed comfort food. From the minute we walked in, I had a hunch we were in for something special. Any place that marries garage charm with gourmet burgers deserves a second glance—and maybe a second helping. This wasn’t just a dinner stop—it was shaping up to be an experience worth writing home (or a blog post) about.

Retro Vibes with a Twist

When you step inside, it’s clear Hank’s Garage and Grill leans into its theme without falling into kitsch. Tufted leather stools line the bar like they were pulled from a classic diner’s heyday, and the tables have that old-school charm that makes you want to linger over a second round. But the real showstopper? Those garage doors that roll up when the weather’s right, giving everything a breezy, open-air feel. It’s like they took a Midwest mechanic’s dream and blended it with a splash of Route 66 nostalgia. We noted how the details hit that sweet spot between throwback and trendy—think classic muscle car posters on the wall, but no grease underfoot. It felt like a place to bring the whole crew or slip in solo for some well-earned indulgence.

Sips and Scans

While Crystal scoped out the menu, I thought about starting with a refreshing drink. A hard cider sounded just right and didn’t disappoint—crisp, refreshing, with just the right bite. I took a sip, leaned back, and eyed the menu like a treasure map leading straight to flavor town. Hank’s Garage and Grill clearly knows its audience, from juicy burgers and smothered hot dogs to salads and pasta. Crystal was torn between a greens-filled meal and “The El Reno,” which got her attention with its thin onions grilled with the patty. Me? I was already circling my choice like a diner on a Sunday morning. But first, another sip of cider and a moment to savor the soundtrack of laughter, clinking glasses, and bustling servers.

Burgers and Tots, My Way

I landed on the house namesake—the Hank’s Burger—and let me tell you, it didn’t play around. This thing came stacked with a 1/3 lb. of beef, sharp American cheese, house sauce, and a house-made sauce tasty enough to make a food critic blush. On the side, I couldn’t resist the tater tots. Not the frozen kind you toss in your toaster oven—these were golden, crunchy little cylinders of joy that took me straight back to lunch trays and simpler times. I caught Crystal smiling across the table as I gave a satisfied nod after the first bite. There’s just something magical about a well-built burger and tots done right. It felt like Hank’s was rewriting diner fare with a modern touch, without losing the grease-splashed soul of the original.

Crystal’s Choice: The El Reno

Crystal made her pick confidently, and it turned out to be a winner. The El Reno Burger smelled like an Oklahoma summer night—onions grilled straight into the meat, sizzling thin and caramelized to perfection. She said it reminded her of those classic burgers we’ve stumbled upon in our travels—places where the menu is short, the food is hot, and the flavors are bold. Her side of chip-style fries was a pleasant surprise—paper-thin, crispy, and just salty enough to keep you reaching back for more. It only took one bite to elicit a firm nod of approval. As we traded samples back and forth, because that’s just how we roll, it became clear this wasn’t just a trendy joint with good lighting. It was a solid addition to the Shawnee dining scene.

Our Verdict? Go Hungry

By the end of our meal, we were full in the best possible way—the kind that makes you loosen your belt and plot your next visit before the check even hits the table. Hank’s Garage and Grill nails the balance between retro comfort and modern creativity, making it more than just another burger joint. It’s the kind of place where the food tells stories and the atmosphere invites you to stay a while. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one pit stop that belongs on your radar. If your stomach’s rumbling for something new, Hank’s Garage and Grill is serving up satisfaction with a side of nostalgia. So go hungry, go curious, and don’t skip the tots. We’ll probably be back soon, and we’ll save you a seat.

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1859 Jail Independence Missouri: Stories from Behind the Bars

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 20 May 2025 10:20:00 +0000

There’s something about a weathered brick building that whispers stories before you even step inside. That’s how we felt standing outside the 1859 Jail in Independence, Missouri, located at 217 N Main St. It’s a spot that has stood the test of time, and if you listen closely, it still seems to echo with the footsteps of sheriffs, outlaws, and unlucky townsfolk. On the outside, it has the stately look of civic pride, but within those walls? Well, that’s where it gets interesting. This wasn’t just a place for locking people up—it was a stage for some downright cinematic tales. As we pushed open the heavy wooden door, we had no idea we were about to brush up against Frank James, Quantrill’s raiders, and even a few ladies of mischief. This isn’t just a jail; it’s a slice of the Wild Midwest, served with surprises.

We want to thank the 1859 Jail for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

Stone Walls and Small-Town Order

Built in—you guessed it—1859, this formidable structure was part of a civic push to bring order to a growing Independence. The town was bustling back then, a jumping-off point for pioneers heading west, and with traffic came trouble. The 1859 Jail was crafted from locally quarried limestone, thick enough to muffle even the rowdiest drunks or desperate outlaws. It housed the county’s most challenging cases until 1933, and through those decades, its cells saw horse thieves, Civil War renegades, and even a few temperance violators who couldn’t resist the bottle. I like to think of it as the town’s quiet enforcer—always watching, always waiting. Back in the day, a night in this jail meant hard beds, cold stew, and heavy thinking. But beyond its bars was a world of interconnected lives, where the line between law and lawbreaker often ran thinner than you’d think.

Home Behind Bars

Here’s a twist: the city marshal lived in the same building as the inmates. Yep, just a few feet of wall separated justice from chaos. The marshal’s wife cooked meals not just for her family, but for the prisoners, too. Talk about a live-in job. Their kids would play in the yard while some unsavory characters cooled their heels in the cells. It’s hard to imagine, but it was seen as a practical setup back then. I couldn’t help but picture Crystal in that role—serving up a pot of beans while keeping an eye on the guy in Cell No. 2. It’s a glimpse into how ordinary life and law enforcement blended in frontier towns. This wasn’t some distant institution—it was woven into the fabric of family life. The kids probably learned their multiplication tables within earshot of a man swearing vengeance on the judge. That’s the kind of neighborhood schooling you don’t get from a textbook.

Frank James’ Soft Cell

Outlaws don’t usually get room upgrades, but Frank James wasn’t your usual prisoner. When Jesse James’ older brother turned himself in, the authorities gave him a surprisingly cushy stay. His cell was carpeted, furnished, and often unlocked. It even had windows that let in the morning light—because apparently, notorious bank robbers are easier to trust. Frank stayed here for months, awaiting trial for a botched train robbery. Local lore suggests townsfolk visited him like a celebrity houseguest. He was polite, charming, and—if you believe the gossip—a bit of a flirt. Honestly, it sounds more like a historical Airbnb than a jail sentence. I stood in his cell and imagined Frank sipping coffee while penning letters, the iron bars just a suggestion. Moments like this at the 1859 Jail remind you that history is rarely black and white. Sometimes, it’s flannel-clad and reclining in a padded chair.

Quantrill’s Raid

The jail’s most explosive chapter came from William Quantrill, the infamous Confederate raider whose name still shivers through Missouri history books. Quantrill was briefly jailed here, though it didn’t stick. What did stick was his 1867 return, leading a nighttime raid to free former Confederate soldiers being held in the cells. The jailbreak succeeded, but at a terrible cost: Rev. Abner Deane, the man who had helped capture the men, was murdered in the process. It was a dark episode in the jail’s long timeline and a reminder that tensions didn’t cool after the Civil War—they simmered like a cast-iron pot left on the fire. Standing in the quiet hallway, I pictured the flicker of lanterns, the clatter of boots, and the moment when law and rebellion clashed within these walls. The 1859 Jail wasn’t just a bystander but a battleground of ideologies.

Women in the 1859 Jail

Not all the drama belonged to the boys. The jail also held women; one of the most curious cases was Lizzie Clevidence. She was arrested in connection with the Beals kidnapping case—a real local scandal that played out like a dime novel. Lizzie, known for her sharp tongue and quicker fists, wasn’t what you’d call a lady of leisure. She served time here, likely in the same drafty cells as the men, although history doesn’t record if she got the same stew. It’s easy to forget that women got swept up in the law, too—by choice, circumstance, or bad luck. And they faced the same cold stone floors and iron beds. If these walls could talk, they’d probably tell you some sassier stories than the men dared. The 1859 Jail holds their stories, too—complicated, often overlooked, and just as important.

The Final Cell

Our visit ended with a walk down the central hallway, where the old cells sit like stone sentinels. I turned to find Crystal stepping out of one, grinning like she’d just cracked the case of the century. That image stuck with me: even places built to hold people down can still lift our curiosity. The 1859 Jail in Independence, Missouri, may have been a place of punishment, but it’s also a place of people. It’s full of voices echoing through the past, waiting to be heard. And that’s what makes spots like this worth the stop. You don’t just learn the dates and names—you meet the folks who lived, worked, and wandered these halls. So if you pass through Independence, pull over and step inside. Who knows? The next cell might hold the story you didn’t know you were looking for.

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Courthouse Exchange: A Taste of Independence Flavor

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 06 May 2025 10:30:00 +0000

On the square at 113 W Lexington Avenue in Independence, Missouri, there’s a narrow set of steps leading down beneath the sidewalk. You might miss them if you’re not looking. But if you follow them down, you’ll find a doorway into another time. That’s where we found the Courthouse Exchange, a tavern that’s been pouring cold beer and flipping burgers for over a hundred years. These walls have heard it all—farm talk, court gossip, election chatter, and laughter from a time before televisions flickered in every room. Some places hang on out of habit. This one has endured out of affection.

Echoes of Old Independence

Independence has always had a little more story to tell than most towns. It was the edge of the frontier once—a place where wagons rolled westward and pioneers stocked up for the long road ahead. The Courthouse Exchange sits in the shadow of the historic Jackson County Courthouse, where Harry Truman once held court before heading to Washington. This eatery and saloon has stood watch through decades of change, serving generations of locals who’ve come in from the cold, the rain, or the courthouse across the street for a plate of comfort and a bit of community.

Down Below, a Cozy Hideaway

After spending the morning tracing wagon ruts and wagon dreams at the nearby National Frontier Trails Museum, we stopped into the Courthouse Exchange for lunch. Something about stepping below street level makes a place feel like a refuge. Inside, stone walls wear their age proudly. Tin ceilings and old photos tell stories without a word. The air is quiet, not from silence but from the hush of people feeling at ease. Locals filled booths and barstools. We settled in, feeling more like neighbors than tourists.

Tasting the Trails

I ordered the 3 Trails Sliders—three miniature burgers named after the trails that carved this country’s path west: the Oregon, the California, and the Santa Fe. Each one told its own story. The Oregon Trail slider came piled with Swiss cheese and mushrooms that clung to the crispy edge of the patty as boldly as the pioneers who faced mountains. The California slider leaned west with its punch of creamy avocado and jack cheese, smooth and fresh. The Santa Fe slider was rounding out the trio, stacked with zesty Pico and pepper jack cheese, a peppery nod to open skies and endless miles. They lined up on a plate like little monuments to the American appetite.

Crystal’s Choice, Sweet and Simple

Crystal, who’s never one to rush a menu, chose the Turkey Bacon Avocado sandwich. It came piled high and pressed just enough to keep its shape. The bacon was crisp, the turkey real, not the processed, and the avocado was the color of fresh spring grass. She added sweet potato fries, which were golden and crisp enough to satisfy that first bite. I noticed she was hesitant to share, and in our travels, that’s a sign of something worth savoring. She gave a smile and a shrug that said it all.

Courthouse Exchange: A Place to Remember

There are restaurants that feed you and restaurants that welcome you. The Courthouse Exchange does both. It’s a place that holds its ground in a world spinning too fast, where a good burger still matters and where memories are made around a table that’s seen more stories than we ever will. Places like this remind me why we travel—not just to see what’s new, but to hold onto what’s worth keeping. If you’ve ever found a historic spot like this in your own travels, let us know. We’re always looking for the next chapter in America’s story.

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A Journey Through the National Frontier Trails Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:33:00 +0000

Independence, Missouri, has always held a special place in the story of westward expansion, and visiting the National Frontier Trails Museum felt like stepping onto a launchpad of American history. As we pulled into the parking lot, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. Here we were, about to walk the same metaphorical trail trodden by thousands who chased dreams, fortunes, and freedom. The museum sits near the starting point for three major trails that carried settlers into the unknown: the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California Trails. What lay ahead of us was more than just artifacts or placards; it was a chance to explore pioneer life’s grit, courage, and complexity. Much like our visit to Pike’s Peak, this experience promised to blend historical insight with deeply personal moments.

Planting the Seeds: The Louisiana Purchase

The first exhibit we encountered laid the groundwork for the westward migration: the Louisiana Purchase. Acquiring this massive tract of land in 1803 more than doubled the size of the young United States. It opened up the potential for untold opportunities—and conflicts. A well-designed display outlined how this deal wasn’t just a land grab but a catalyst that sparked the imagination of a restless nation. I liked how the exhibit used maps and graphics to trace the evolving borders, which helped us visualize how dramatic the expansion was. As I snapped photos for this article, Crystal read about how this treaty unleashed sweeping change in people’s lives and dreams.

Blazing a Trail: Lewis & Clark Expedition

Around the corner, we discovered the path of Lewis and Clark. Their daring expedition, commissioned to explore the new territory, was as much about survival as science and diplomacy. The National Frontier Trails Museum captures the spirit of their journey with displays and journal excerpts. I’ve always been fascinated by the sheer ambition of their trek. Imagine stepping into unmapped wilderness with nothing but rudimentary gear and a promise to chart the unknown. The museum highlights their challenges, from navigating treacherous terrain to establishing relations with Indigenous tribes. It reminded me that exploration often includes curiosity, courage, and calculated risk.

Fur and Fortune: Traders and Trappers

Winding deeper into the exhibit, we encountered a chapter often overshadowed: the era of the traders and trappers. Before wagon trains became common, fur trappers were among the first non-Indigenous people to explore these territories. Their lives were rugged and dangerous, yet they helped pave the way, sometimes quite literally, for settlers to follow. The museum’s section on the fur trade is filled with eye-opening facts. We could imagine these solitary figures trekking through mountain passes, but the exhibits don’t shy away from the reality. This lifestyle came at a high cost, including strained relationships with Native tribes and perilous isolation. It’s interesting how their legacy lingers in the place names and myths of the American West.

Voices of the Land: Indigenous Tribes

Crystal is always mindful of exhibits dedicated to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited these lands. The National Frontier Trails Museum approaches this history with respect, acknowledging the vibrant cultures that were here long before settlers dreamed of westward travel. We read about encounters by early migrants into Indigenous lands. These weren’t just historical figures; they were real people whose worlds were upended by a migration they didn’t choose. While westward expansion is often painted as progress, we were reminded of its cost here. The museum does an admirable job of sharing these voices, encouraging visitors to reflect on the complexity of American history, rather than seeing it as a one-sided tale of heroism.

Commerce on the Move: The Santa Fe Trail

We moved into the section devoted to the Santa Fe Trail. This trail, unlike the Oregon or California paths, was primarily commercial. Traders braved the route to connect with Mexican markets, hauling goods and forging economic relationships. I was fascinated by the strategic calculations traders had to make: How much could they carry? Would they make it past raiders or storms? The Santa Fe Trail demanded savvy and stamina, and it was clear these merchants were more than business people—they were adventurers. Crystal and I examined the artifacts representing trade goods that passed along the Santa Fe Trail. It’s humbling to think about how commerce helped shape our country.

Gold Fever: The California Trail

Next, we veered west on the California Trail, and you could feel the energy shift. The museum’s Gold Rush exhibit describes how the lure of riches drew thousands of fortune seekers west, even if very few found what they sought. I couldn’t imagine embarking on a 157-day journey with no promise of success. These people weren’t just greedy—they were desperate, determined, and often misled. This section of the National Frontier Trails Museum reminded us how hopes can drive people to extremes—and how few struck it rich.

Fueling the Fire: Westward Fever

So what drove thousands of families to leave everything behind and head into the wilderness? The next exhibit tried to answer that question. Posters promised “free land,” and letters from the frontier painted a picture of opportunity. But between the lines, you could read the desperation—economic hardship, disease, and overpopulation pushed people westward just as much as hope pulled them. I thought about how migration often gets romanticized, but the museum offers a more grounded take. Westward fever was a mix of motivations: some noble, others driven by survival. It’s easy to imagine yourself as a pioneer standing next to a loaded wagon, but harder to fathom the realities of uprooting your life for a promise that may never come true.

Wheels of Fortune: Choosing Wagons and Animals

Pioneers didn’t just grab a wagon and go—it required a series of calculated choices. The National Frontier Trails Museum lets visitors test those decisions through a clever interactive display. Crystal loved the hands-on element. While she packed light and efficiently, I was still eyeing the cast-iron skillet. The types of wagons, the animals chosen to pull them, and even the amount of axle grease could mean the difference between life and death. Oxen were stronger but slower, and mules were more agile but costlier. Each choice carried consequences. I appreciated how the museum framed these decisions with historical context while keeping it fun and engaging. It felt like Oregon Trail brought to life—only we weren’t dying of dysentery this time.

Pack Smart or Perish: What to Bring

What you brought, and more importantly, what you left behind, defined your journey. One of the museum’s educational exhibits is a list of supplies for a trip West. It’s shocking how little could fit: a few barrels of flour, a rifle, bedding, cookware, and maybe a family Bible—no room for sentiment, just survival. Crystal noted how these choices reflected values—necessity ruled, but a few brought keepsakes that offered comfort. I imagined standing in a barn, staring at our possessions, wondering what to cut. The exhibit invites visitors to consider these difficult decisions. It left us both thinking about what to pack if we headed into the unknown.

Dark Days: Trail Tragedies

No trail story is complete without acknowledging the tragedies. The museum handles these with sensitivity, presenting stories like that of the Donner Party not as macabre tales but as cautionary lessons. Crystal and I read through survivor accounts that chilled us to the bone. There’s something sobering about reading the stories of families who made it halfway before fate changed their course. Disease, starvation, accidents, these weren’t rare; they were part of the journey. I appreciated how the National Frontier Trails Museum doesn’t gloss over this darker side. Instead, it honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving us a deeper understanding of westward migration.

Enduring the Oregon Trail

Our visit neared its end with a tribute to the Oregon Trail, the most iconic of the routes. It was here that I found myself reflecting most deeply. Pioneers faced more than physical challenges. They had to adapt, shed belongings, and learn to rely on one another. Displays showed how wagons were lightened as the trip progressed, often leaving prized possessions along the trail. We can imagine the heartbreak of abandoning a cherished rocking chair to ease the oxen’s burden. It was a reminder that survival often meant letting go. Much like we’ve learned in our travels, the journey is sometimes more about endurance than arrival. The Oregon Trail section gave us a quiet moment to absorb the sacrifices and determination that defined the pioneer spirit.

Visit the National Frontier Trails Museum

Before we left, we returned to the interactive wagon-packing area for one last go. This time, Crystal went straight for the coffee (no surprise) while I focused on savory selections. We laughed at each other’s choices, but everyone has their priorities. Visiting the National Frontier Trails Museum wasn’t just a history lesson; it was an immersive experience that connected us with the dreams, struggles, and resilience of those who shaped our nation’s journey west. From the Louisiana Purchase to the rutted trails of Oregon, every exhibit reminded us that progress comes at a price, often paid in grit and grace. As we stepped outside, we took one last look at the museum, grateful for the chance to follow those who dared to dream westward.

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Cockrell Mercantile: Missouri’s Tastiest Hidden Treasure

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 10:24:00 +0000

Tucked away on the outskirts of Lee’s Summit, Cockrell Mercantile is the kind of place you hear about in whispers. Those “you’ve-gotta-go” recommendations from folks who know where to find the good stuff. With its creaky wooden floors, vintage architecture, and shelves brimming with gourmet goodies, this charming mercantile feels like a step back in time with a flavorful twist. What started as a general store in a tiny village now stands as one of Missouri’s tastiest hidden treasures—a must-visit spot for food lovers, gift seekers, and anyone who appreciates a good old-fashioned surprise.

A Century of Where?

To hear someone mention Cockrell will usually evoke sideways looks. “Where?” is one of the most common replies. This sleepy little town has never been large, with a population of around 25. From its beginnings as a farming community, the city was added to maps when it was awarded a post office in 1886. Like other small towns, the post office was run out of the general store. Over time, it moved to a new store, which put the old one out of business. Finally, in 1902, the post office closed for good. These days, the town of Cockrell is still a quiet spot, but the mercantile helps draw visitors from miles around.

The Morton House

The Cockrell Mercantile is made up of five buildings. Each one has its unique flavor. After parking in their on-site lot, we were ready to start exploring. Our first stop was The Morton House, a baker’s dreamland. Stepping through the door, we were met with the delicious aroma of a bakeshop. Not the kind of place filled with pre-cooked goods. This was the type where the scents were from the materials used to create marvelous treats. Exploring the shop was an adventure filled with color and charm.

Fiesta Cottage

Next, we discovered one of Cockrell’s most colorful surprises—the Fiesta Ware Cottage. Just a few steps down the path, this standalone building bursts with vibrant hues and retro charm. Inside, shelves are lined floor to ceiling with dishes in every rainbow shade. From classic cobalt and sunflower yellow to seasonal releases and rare finds, it’s a dream come true for collectors and casual admirers alike. The sheer spectrum of color makes it impossible not to smile, and we found ourselves lingering longer than expected, drawn into the nostalgic feel of this iconic American brand.

A Color Lover's Paradise

It’s not just about picking up a plate or two—it’s about the experience. The cozy cottage invites you to slow down and appreciate the artistry behind everyday objects. I overheard fellow shoppers swapping stories about their own Fiesta Ware sets. Passed down through generations, these treasures foster a sense of connection and tradition. Whether you’re hunting for that elusive piece to complete a collection or just falling in love with the colors, the Fiesta Ware Cottage is a delightful stop that adds a pop of personality to any visit to Cockrell Mercantile.

Cockrell Cottage

Just a few steps away, the Cockrell Cottage beckoned us with its boutique charm and cozy farmhouse aesthetic. Inside, it’s a carefully curated blend of modern rustic style and vintage-inspired finds. Think soft throws, scented candles, seasonal décor, and clever, timeless and trendy gift ideas. Each display feels like a Pinterest board brought to life, and it’s easy to get swept up in imagining how these charming pieces could warm up your own home. Whether browsing for a unique hostess gift or simply soaking in the cozy vibes, the Cockrell Cottage adds a stylish twist to the Cockrell Mercantile experience.

Exploring Cockrell Mercantile

Our visit to the Cockrell Mercantile was like a step back in time. Here we were able to enjoy our time meandering through the shops. It felt like a visit to an old general store filled with modern conveniences. It is undoubtedly a fascinating collection of shops, and we are so glad we were clued in on it by one of our faithful readers. This is precisely the type of interaction we hoped for when we began our travel blog. We can all help each other uncover the hidden gems that lie just around the bend. Thanks for your input, and we hope you share your hidden gems with others.

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Honoring The Past At The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 10:30:45 +0000

Nestled in the historic 18th and Vine District, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum holds tales from the past. This Kansas City attraction is located at 1616 E 18th St, on the Missouri side of the city. It connects to the American Jazz Museum as a cultural cornerstone, setting the tone for a deeply enriching experience. Its mission is to preserve and celebrate the rich history of African American baseball and its profound impact on the social advancement of America. This isn’t just a tribute to athletes—it’s a chronicle of resilience, creativity, and excellence forged under segregation. This visit promised to be more than educational—it felt like stepping onto sacred ground.

Settling into the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

As we stepped through the entrance, reverence and pride were immediately recognizable. The museum’s layout, storytelling exhibits, and preserved memorabilia beckoned us to explore deeper. It’s easy to see why this space is a must-visit for baseball and history fans alike. With camera in hand, I was eager to capture the essence of each exhibit, while Crystal paused to take in the carefully curated visuals that bring history to life. From the first display, it was clear the museum serves a greater purpose than just chronicling stats and games. As we made our way through the introductory exhibits, we found powerful quotes etched on the walls, each a reminder of the barriers these players overcame.

The Early Years

The journey into the early years of Black baseball pulled us into a time when talent often went unrecognized by the mainstream. Before there were organized leagues, African American players formed their teams and barnstormed across the country, seeking opportunities wherever they could. The museum walks visitors through these humble beginnings with vintage photographs, uniforms, and stories that reveal these trailblazers’ hardships and hopes. A weathered glove and ball on display are simple objects that speak volumes about the perseverance required to play in such times. We imagined the excitement of makeshift ballfields and loyal fans who cheered from dusty bleachers.

Traveling to Play

Before formal leagues took shape, independent teams sprang up in towns big and small. These brought high-quality baseball to communities that were often overlooked. Names like the Chicago American Giants and the Cuban Stars represented athletic excellence and cultural pride. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum honors these teams with team photographs and press clippings that celebrate their impact. I paused to admire the striking logos on the vintage jerseys—each a symbol of defiance and dignity. These early teams weren’t just entertainment; they were community cornerstones. They offered role models and rallying points for Black communities during a time of limited opportunity.

Falling on Hard Times

As the Great Depression swept across the nation, it brought fresh challenges to Negro Leagues baseball. Teams folded, travel became harder, and financial survival took ingenuity and grit. Yet, this was also a time when the spirit of these players shone brightest. The museum conveys this era with stark contrasts—newspaper headlines warning of closures placed beside glowing reviews of outstanding performances. Seeing a black-and-white photo of a team crowded onto an old bus is a testament to their determination to keep playing no matter the odds. The stories of barnstorming tours and creative funding solutions serve as reminders that even in the toughest of times, passion can find a way.

Playing Elsewhere

One of the more surprising stories in the museum was coverage of the international side of Negro Leagues history. In Puerto Rico, teams like the San Juan Senadores welcomed Black players and offered them a more inclusive playing field. This chapter added a new dimension to our understanding—how the love of baseball transcended borders and cultures. We found it intriguing to see players being swarmed by appreciative fans. These overseas games were more than just matches; they were moments of dignity and joy in a world that often denied both. The museum’s presentation of this international narrative shows how the Negro Leagues didn’t just survive—they expanded and inspired.

Baseball Greats

A visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum would be incomplete without meeting the legends. Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, Cool Papa Bell—these names echo through baseball lore, and the museum does them justice. We found ourselves lingering at life-sized displays and personal memorabilia that told the stories of their unmatched talent and magnetic personalities. I was particularly impressed with Paige’s pitching form. These players weren’t just athletes but icons of style, strength, and skill. The museum gives each of them room to shine, reminding us how they paved the way for future generations.

Kansas City Connection

As locals, we felt a special pride when we reached the Kansas City Monarchs section. This hometown team was more than just successful—they were legendary. With a legacy of innovation, including the first use of portable lighting for night games, the Monarchs helped shape modern baseball. Crystal and I paused to admire a classic uniform from days gone by. In this section, we can feel the weight of their influence in Kansas City and across the baseball world.

Breaking Sports Barriers

While baseball is at the core, the museum also explores broader themes of Black excellence in sports and culture. A section dedicated to other pioneering athletes—like boxer Joe Louis and basketball star Earl Lloyd—reminds visitors that the spirit of the Negro Leagues lived beyond the diamond. Including artwork, multimedia presentations, and cultural artifacts expands the museum’s reach and relevance. We appreciated how the narrative connected baseball to the broader civil rights movement, and admired the bold visual storytelling used throughout. It’s a moving reminder that the struggle for recognition and equality played out in many arenas, each victory building toward a greater goal.

Field of Legends

At the heart of the museum lies the awe-inspiring “Field of Legends,” a full-scale baseball diamond surrounded by life-sized bronze statues of some of the greatest Negro Leagues players. Each figure stands poised in position, evoking the energy of a game in progress and bringing these legends to life in a powerful and personal way. I was drawn to the expressive detail captured in each statue—from Satchel Paige on the mound to Josh Gibson behind the plate. Crystal took a moment to walk the bases, admiring how this space turns history into a sacred experience. The lighting casts a soft glow, creating a reverent atmosphere that invites reflection and respect.

Plan Your Visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Our time at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City left us with a profound sense of admiration and gratitude. This isn’t just a museum—it’s a tribute to heroes whose stories deserve to be told repeatedly. Walking among the legends, we were reminded that history is best understood when experienced through the eyes of those who lived it. As we stepped back out into the Kansas City sunlight, we carried with us the facts and feelings—the pride, the perseverance, the progress. We encourage our readers to visit this incredible institution and share their reflections. What stories stood out to you? How do you see the legacy of the Negro Leagues in today’s game? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear them.

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The Battle of Lone Jack: Echoes of Conflict

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:30:00 +0000

The crackling of flames and the distant wails of the displaced filled the air as homeowners watched helplessly. Families were being torn from their farms. Their lives were reduced to smoldering ruins under the ruthless enforcement of General Order No. 11. It’s a stark image that encapsulates the deep scars left by the Civil War in Missouri. As we stepped into the Lone Jack Civil War Museum, we could almost feel the echoes of history reverberating through the walls. This wasn’t just a battlefield; it was a community caught in the whirlwind of war. Here neighbors became enemies, and survival was a matter of brutal chance. Join us as we reflect on the Battle of Lone Jack.

We want to thank the Lone Jack Civil War Museum for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

A Fast and Ferocious Battle

The Battle of Lone Jack erupted on August 15-16, 1862, in a ferocious clash between Confederate guerrillas and Union forces. At dawn, a combined Confederate force launched a surprise attack on the Union garrison, igniting a savage, close-quarters fight. The battle raged for five relentless hours, leaving over 200 dead and many more wounded. By mid-morning, the Union line began to crumble, forcing the remaining soldiers to retreat. Despite their victory, the Confederates soon abandoned the town, unable to hold their ground against reinforcements. Lone Jack was left a smoldering testament to the cost of war in Missouri.

Remnants of War

The brutality of the battle was reflected in the ammunition used. Musket balls, minie balls, and artillery shells tore through the air, embedding themselves into the landscape. Walking through the museum’s exhibits, we saw these relics firsthand. Deformed bullets and balls told a story of chaos and carnage. Unlike the mass-produced weaponry of later wars, these projectiles were often crude and designed to inflict maximum damage. The sheer volume of lead exchanged at Lone Jack turned the battlefield into a hellish cauldron, where neither side was spared from the violence.

From Cannons to Squirrel Rifles

Weapons of war came in all forms during this battle. Field artillery, including cannons, roared across the field, shaking the ground with each blast. At the same time, many fighters wielded squirrel rifles and shotguns, designed for hunting rather than combat. The mismatched arsenal speaks to the nature of the conflict. Organized military units clashed with local militias and guerrilla fighters, all of whom were armed with whatever they could muster. This lack of uniformity made the battle even more unpredictable, as both soldiers and civilians were drawn into the fray.

The Cave Hotel

One of the most harrowing scenes of the battle took place at the Cave Hotel. This once-thriving inn became a gruesome battlefield. Its walls became riddled with bullet holes as Union troops made a desperate stand. Confederate forces stormed the building, engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat. The hotel, meant to be a place of rest and refuge, became a spot where men fought for their lives in the tight confines of its rooms. The story of this fight lingers in our minds, whispering a tale of desperation and sacrifice.

The Brutal Battle of Lone jack

The aftermath of the battle saw further tragedy unfold. In an act of calculated cruelty, Colonel Hays ordered his men to shoot the Union soldiers’ horses, leaving survivors stranded and unable to flee. The battlefield, which had already become a graveyard of men, also became a final resting place for their loyal mounts. This act underscored the brutality of the battle, where the rules of engagement blurred. With the region caught between Union control and Confederate resistance, the battle’s ripples were felt far beyond Lone Jack.

Guerilla Warfare

The region’s Civil War experiences were defined by guerrilla warfare. Bands of Confederate partisans waged a relentless campaign against Union forces. The Missouri State Militia struggled to contain these unpredictable fighters, who struck from the shadows and melted back into the countryside. The Border War turned neighbor against neighbor, deepening the wounds that would take generations to heal. Lone Jack was just one of many battlegrounds in this vicious conflict, but its story exemplifies the chaos that engulfed the region.

The Reality of War

The Battle of Lone Jack was more than a single engagement. It was a microcosm of Missouri’s Civil War, where battles weren’t just fought on open fields but in homes, towns, and the hearts of its people. The devastation wrought by General Order No. 11 ensured that suffering would continue long after the last shots were fired. Families were forced from their homes, and communities were left in ashes. These were the legacies of the Civil War. As we left the museum, the weight of history seemed to follow us. Standing beneath the Missouri sky, we reflected on how the echoes of history still shape the land and the lives of those who call it home.

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Changing Times – Johnson County Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 13:01:00 +0000

The Johnson County Museum, located at 8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, Kansas, offers visitors an immersive look into the region’s vibrant past. Housed in a historic landmark, this museum is a treasure trove of stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight the evolution of Johnson County. From its tumultuous Civil War history to the suburban boom of the 1950s, the museum captures key moments that shaped the area. Stepping inside, we were instantly transported through time, rekindling childhood memories while discovering new insights into the county’s history.

From King Louie to Cultural Landmark

Before becoming the Johnson County Museum, the building was home to the iconic King Louie West bowling alley and ice skating rink. As Kansas City natives, we vividly recall the thrill of slipping on rental skates and taking our first wobbly laps on the rink. The laughter of friends, the clatter of bowling pins, and the scent of buttery popcorn filled the air. Seeing the space now transformed into a museum, yet still preserving elements of its past, was a nostalgic experience. This repurposed landmark bridges generations, making history feel alive and personal.

Kansas-Missouri Border War: A Tumultuous Past

The first exhibit we came to delved into the Kansas-Missouri Border War, a prelude to the Civil War that left an indelible mark on the region. As a history enthusiast, I was drawn to the detailed accounts of Bleeding Kansas, where abolitionist and pro-slavery factions clashed violently. The display painted a vivid picture of the tension that once gripped the area. Standing before these artifacts, I reflected on our past visits to Civil War battlefields, which deepened my appreciation for how this conflict had shaped both Kansas and Missouri.

General Order No. 11: A Devastating Decree

A pivotal moment in regional history, General Order No. 11, issued in 1863, forcibly removed residents from several Missouri counties, aiming to curb guerrilla warfare. The museum’s exhibit captures the chaos and displacement this decree caused. It’s a stark reminder of how war uproots communities. Seeing this exhibit, I was reminded of our visit to the Lone Jack Civil War Museum, where we first learned about the lasting scars left by this decree. The Johnson County Museum presents this history in a way that is both accessible and profoundly moving.

The Boom of Johnson County

After World War II, Johnson County transformed rural farmland into a booming suburban enclave. The museum vividly illustrates this shift with maps, photos, and artifacts from the past. Post-war optimism fueled an exodus from city centers, with families seeking the promise of homeownership and community. Walking through the exhibit, I imagined what it must have been like to witness the rapid construction of subdivisions, the rise of shopping centers, and the birth of the modern commute. This era set the foundation for the thriving county we see today.

The All-Electric House: A Glimpse Into 1950s Innovation

One of the museum’s highlights is the All-Electric House, a 1950s model home that showcases mid-century innovation. With push-button appliances, futuristic design, and an emphasis on convenience, this house symbolized the American Dream. The images of life in the 1950s depict an era of boundless optimism, where technology was seen as a means to simplify daily life.

The Rise of Household Convenience

Stepping into the home, we spotted cutting-edge appliances from the 1950s, each designed to simplify the chores of the past. These innovations revolutionized home life, giving families more leisure time. As we examined the retro toasters and stand mixers, I was reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen, where a bright turquoise fridge stood proudly as the heart of the home. The exhibit perfectly captures the excitement and ingenuity of the era’s technological advancements.

Mid-Century Living Room: A Design Time Capsule

The mid-century modern living room is a step back into an era defined by stylish simplicity. With wood-paneled walls, lush carpeting, and a console TV, this space reflects the cozy yet sophisticated aesthetic of the 1950s. I was instantly transported to my childhood, recalling the vibrant color palettes of avocado green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange that adorned homes of the time. It’s fascinating to see how these design trends have made a comeback in today’s interiors.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms: A Splash of Color

The 1950s saw a shift towards bold, vibrant colors in home design, particularly in bedrooms and bathrooms. The museum’s exhibit features a bathroom decorated in colors that defined the era. Seeing these details brought back memories of visiting relatives’ homes, where bathrooms gleamed in shades of mint green or powder blue. This section of the museum beautifully showcases how aesthetics reflected the optimism of post-war America.

Visit the Johnson County Museum

The Johnson County Museum offers an engaging journey through history, blending personal nostalgia with insightful storytelling. From the Border War to suburban expansion, each exhibit provides a glimpse into the past while connecting it to the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a longtime Kansas City resident, or a curious traveler, this museum is a must-visit. Have you explored the museum? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!

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Exploring the American Jazz Museum: Step Into The Rhythm

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Tucked in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine District, the American Jazz Museum, at 1616 E 18th St., is where music history comes alive. From the moment we walked in, the energy was electric—photos of jazz greats lined the walls, the soft hum of saxophones filled the air, and interactive exhibits invited us to dive deeper into America’s original art form. This museum doesn’t just showcase jazz; it immerses you in it. I could almost picture a smoky 1920s club, where the syncopated rhythms of a live band set the tone for an unforgettable night. Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan or just curious about its legacy, this museum offers a front-row seat to the genre’s evolution. If you want to feel the heartbeat of Kansas City, there’s no better place to start than the American Jazz Museum.

Learning the Basics

Jazz is unlike any other genre—it thrives on improvisation, with rhythm, melody, and harmony at its core. It’s a conversation between musicians, where each instrument adds its voice to the story. The American Jazz Museum captures this beautifully, showing how jazz musicians push boundaries with every note. I still remember the first time we saw a live jazz performance in a dimly lit club where the pianist and saxophonist played off each other like old friends finishing each other’s sentences. That spirit of spontaneity is what makes jazz so unique. Walking through the museum’s exhibits, I was reminded of that night as I listened to vintage recordings and watched video clips of legends lost in their craft. Jazz isn’t just about the notes played—it’s about the space between them, the feeling in the room, and the way it connects us across time.

Explore the Roots of Jazz

The roots of jazz run deep, drawing from African rhythms, blues, ragtime, and spirituals. Born in the early 20th century, this genre was shaped by the African American experience, blending cultural traditions into something entirely new. Kansas City played a pivotal role in its evolution, giving rise to its signature swing style. It’s a looser, more improvisational take on jazz that encouraged extended solos. The American Jazz Museum does an incredible job of tracing these origins, from the bustling streets of New Orleans to the smoky nightclubs of Kansas City. Jazz is more than just music; it’s a way of life. Late-night jam sessions and unspoken musical codes between players display how deeply jazz is woven into the fabric of this city.

The Great Satchmo

No jazz legend looms larger than Louis Armstrong. With his gravelly voice and gifted trumpeting, he transformed jazz into something universally beloved. His exhibit at the American Jazz Museum is a must-see. Rare photographs, recordings, and personal artifacts bring his legacy to life. As we stood before a case displaying one of his trumpets, we were instantly transported to the first time we heard What a Wonderful World. Armstrong’s voice’s warmth and ability to make a horn sing were pure magic. In the old photos, we noted his wide grin, effortless charm, and ability to make every note feel like a celebration. Armstrong wasn’t just a musician; he was a force of nature, and his impact on jazz is undeniable.

Big Band Jazz

Duke Ellington took jazz to new heights, blending it with orchestral elements to create something grander and more sophisticated. Ellington was a meticulous composer, unlike many jazz musicians who thrived on improvisation. He crafted intricate arrangements that redefined the genre. The American Jazz Museum pays tribute to the genius that formed this musical evolution. Ellington’s music demanded precision and soul, a rare balance only a true master could achieve. We could almost imagine him sitting at his piano, fine-tuning each phrase until it was perfect.

The Voice That Stirred a Nation

Ella Fitzgerald, the “First Lady of Song,” had a voice that could melt even the most hardened listener. Her ability to glide effortlessly from silky smooth ballads to rapid-fire scat singing was unmatched. The American Jazz Museum captures her brilliance through memorabilia highlighting her groundbreaking career. One of my favorite Ella songs is Summertime. It’s hauntingly beautiful, her voice full of longing and warmth. She had this way of making every lyric feel deeply personal, as if she was singing just for you. Even today, her influence can be heard in vocalists across genres.

Kansas City's Own

In Kansas City, no jazz figure is more revered than Charlie Parker Jr. Known as “Bird,” Parker revolutionized jazz with his complex bebop style, pushing the genre into uncharted territory. His exhibit at the American Jazz Museum is a true highlight, filled with personal artifacts and tributes from fellow musicians. His music, filled with blistering-fast runs and unexpected turns, still sounds daring and fresh today. Parker didn’t just play jazz—he reinvented it, proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.

American Jazz Museum Media Room

Jazz isn’t just a relic of the past—it continues to shape modern culture, from film scores to television soundtracks. The American Jazz Museum highlights how jazz has influenced media for decades. Even today, jazz is woven into pop culture, whether it’s the sultry sounds behind a crime drama or the lively swing of a commercial jingle. The museum does an incredible job of showcasing jazz’s lasting imprint, proving its influence is still as strong as ever.

Real Life Jazz Incubators

Kansas City was once home to some of the greatest jazz clubs in the country. During Prohibition, Kansas City dance halls, cabarets, and speakeasies flourished. Musicians from around the nation flocked to Kansas City to perform. Places like Milton’s Tap Room and the Pink Door were more than just venues—they were incubators of musical innovation. After the evening performances, jazz musicians gathered for jam sessions. This exchange of ideas created new forms of jazz. While many of these clubs are gone, their influence can still be felt.

Living History at The American Jazz Museum

No visit to the American Jazz Museum is complete without stepping into The Blue Room, an intimate venue that keeps Kansas City’s jazz legacy alive. Sitting in that club, we were transported back to an era when jazz ruled the night. It’s a reminder that jazz isn’t just history—it’s alive, breathing, and evolving. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the genre, this museum offers an immersive experience that combines jazz’s past and present. From legendary musicians to hands-on exhibits, it’s a place where history sings. If you ever find yourself in Kansas City, don’t miss the chance to visit the American Jazz Museum. You’ll hear the stories, feel the rhythm, and let the music take you on a journey you won’t forget.

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Discovering Wyandotte County’s Hidden Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 18:16:07 +0000

Tucked away in Kansas City, Kansas, the Wyandotte County Museum is a hidden gem filled with rich local history. Located at 631 N. 126th St., this FREE museum offers an insightful journey through the past, showcasing artifacts and stories many locals may not even be aware of. As lifelong residents, Crystal and I were eager to explore Wyandotte County’s hidden museum and uncover the fascinating history that shaped our hometown.

A Glimpse before Immigration

Before the waves of immigration brought new communities to the region, Wyandotte County was a vastly different landscape. The land was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wyandots, who were forcibly relocated to the area. Rolling prairies and the winding Kaw River defined the geography, with only a handful of settlements dotting the area. At that time, the region’s economy was primarily based on agriculture and trade along the river, setting the stage for the transformations that would soon follow.

The Rise of Small Communities

As industry began to grow, small enclaves formed within Wyandotte County. Places like Snake Hollow and Hooverville became home to working-class families, often immigrants searching for opportunities in the burgeoning industries. These tight-knit communities were known for their resilience, with families supporting one another through hard times. Though many of these neighborhoods have faded into history, their legacy remains in the stories passed down through generations. The images we discovered at Wyandotte County’s hidden museum uncovered pieces of our city’s history we had never realized.

From Meatpacking...

One of the most significant industries that shaped Wyandotte County was meatpacking. The nearby Kansas City Stockyards were bustling with activity, and the demand for skilled labor surged. Thousands of immigrants, including many from Eastern Europe and Mexico, found work in slaughterhouses and processing plants. This industry provided jobs and contributed to the cultural diversity that still defines the region today.

To Soap-Making

An unexpected offshoot of the meatpacking industry was soap production. With abundant animal fats available, local businesses saw an opportunity to create products such as soaps and candles. Companies like Peet Brothers, which later merged with Colgate-Palmolive, became household names. The soap-making industry played a crucial role in the local economy, providing additional jobs and expanding Wyandotte County’s industrial footprint.

The Devastating Floods of the Early 1900s

The early 20th century saw a series of devastating floods that tested the community’s resilience. The floods of 1902, 1903, and 1908 wreaked havoc on homes and businesses, leaving behind a path of destruction. Limited flood control measures left residents facing repeated hardships as they rebuilt their lives time and again. These natural disasters underscored the need for improved infrastructure, which would take decades to materialize fully.

The Founding of Bethany Hospital

Wyandotte County’s history would be incomplete without mentioning Bethany Hospital. This institution opened its doors to provide much-needed medical care to the growing community. This hospital holds special significance for us, as Crystal and I were born there. Established to serve the working-class families of the area, Bethany became known for its compassionate care and commitment to the people of Wyandotte County. Though it eventually closed, its memories live today with the people it served.

Segregated Sewing Circles

Sewing circles became crucial to community support efforts during the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era. Segregation was still deeply ingrained in society, and these sewing groups were often divided by race. Despite the separation, both Black and white women contributed tirelessly to making garments, quilts, and other essentials for those in need. These efforts showcased the strength of the community, even in the face of adversity. This was another piece of previously unknown history we discovered at Wyandotte County’s hidden museum.

Building Aircraft for World War II

Wyandotte County played an important role during World War II. Local factories shifted production to aid in the war effort. Aircraft manufacturing became a primary industry, as plants in the area built essential components for planes used in combat. Many local men and women took on jobs in these factories, contributing directly to the war effort. This cemented Wyandotte County’s place in wartime history.

Flood Control and Levees

The devastating flood of 1951 was a turning point for flood control efforts in Wyandotte County. Our family, like many others, was directly impacted by the flood. This disaster prompted the construction of improved levees and flood management systems. Having endured so much loss, the community rallied to ensure that such destruction would not happen again. These measures continue to protect the urban core from the devastating effects of rising waters.

An Interactive Table for Young Historians

While exploring Wyandotte County’s hidden museum, we spotted this table filled with interactive exhibits. Hands-on activities allow young visitors to engage with history fun and meaningfully. We could quickly identify Most of the pieces, but we wondered how many of the younger generations could do so. How do you think you would do? Please feel free to comment below if you know all of these items.

A Local’s Reflection on Wyandotte County’s Rich History

As locals, Crystal and I found our visit to Wyandotte County’s hidden museum enlightening and nostalgic. This hidden gem preserves the stories that shaped our community. It provides a space where locals and visitors can connect with the past. If your travels lead you to Kansas City, Kansas, we highly recommend visiting to experience a piece of Wyandotte County’s history. You might discover a new appreciation for the place we proudly call home.

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Moon Marble: A Timeless Treasure in Bonner Springs, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 04:30:00 +0000

Moon Marble Company has become a must-visit destination for families, collectors, and nostalgia seekers. This unique shop, nestled in Bonner Springs, Kansas, offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of marbles and classic games. We’ve been drawn to the store for its vast selection and the live marble-making demonstrations. Stepping inside Moon Marble is like taking a trip back in time, where handcrafted details and old-fashioned fun take center stage. Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for a family-friendly day trip, Moon Marble is a Kansas treasure worth exploring. The shop has established itself as a landmark of creativity and craftsmanship.

Kansas City Classic

Since its founding, Moon Marble Company has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in Bonner Springs. The business has thrived for decades, drawing in locals and travelers eager to experience this unique space. The shop has continued to grow while staying true to its mission of preserving the art of handmade marbles. Its longevity speaks to its charm and the timeless appeal of its products. Moon Marble’s ability to blend education, entertainment, and nostalgia makes it a must-see destination. While trends in toys and games have evolved, Moon Marble has remained steadfast. This tells us that traditional craftsmanship still holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Stirring Memories

Moon Marble Company offers a fantastic inventory of classic games and toys, going beyond marbles. Shoppers can find everything from vintage board games to tin toys that bring back childhood memories. The store specializes in hard-to-find games, making it a paradise for collectors. Families looking to introduce their kids to timeless entertainment can find a wide assortment. A trip through the store feels like an adventure through the past. Shelves are lined with items that recall a simpler time. Whether you’re searching for jacks, wooden tops, or classic puzzles, this shop has something for everyone. Their curated selection showcases the enduring popularity of traditional games and the joy they bring to new generations. We spotted many games that reminded us of our youth.

Moon Marble Mania

Bruce Breslow, the owner of Moon Marble, has built a business that reflects his passion for craftsmanship and creativity. What started as a small endeavor has become a destination for marble enthusiasts. Breslow’s dedication to preserving the art of handmade marbles has earned him recognition across the country. He has spent years refining his techniques and educating the public about the delicate artistry required for marble-making. His expertise and quirky personality have helped turn Moon Marble into a beloved stop for visitors of all ages. Bruce’s enthusiasm for his craft is evident in every detail of his work. His commitment to keeping the tradition alive ensures that the skills involved in marble-making continue to inspire future generations.

Exhibition Zone

Stepping past the games and toys leads to the marble-making area. It has been designed to give visitors a front-row seat to the fascinating process. Here you’ll find bleachers where you can sit and watch molten glass get shaped into colorful, handcrafted marbles. The setup allows for an up-close view of the intricate techniques used to create these tiny works of art. We are always mesmerized by the precision and patience required to craft each marble. The workbench is crowded with tools, materials, and examples of Bruce’s craft. A monitor amplifies the scene, allowing a better view of the process.

Marble-Making Demos

Waiting for the marble-making demonstration allowed me time to chat with Bruce. His passion for the art was evident during our conversation. What struck me was his interest in my history. We spoke about our younger days and the jobs that we have held. These details mold our paths in life and help us better understand others. We were joined by a family, which signaled the start of Bruce’s demonstration. While working the molten glass, he walked us through the delicate balance of heat, movement, and timing needed to craft each piece. The mesmerizing process of shaping, twisting, and layering colors was captivating. Each demonstration leaves audiences with a deeper appreciation for the art form.

Taking Shape

We watched in awe as Bruce carefully shaped the pieces of glass rod into a sphere. Vibrant colors are added in, creating unique designs for every marble. Bruce’s engaging presentation kept us entertained while offering an educational experience. The intricate steps involved, from gathering molten glass to finalizing the shape, demonstrate the mastery required for each creation. These demonstrations provide a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship needed for marble-making. After the one-man show, you can shop for a piece of handcrafted artistry as a reminder of your visit. The interactive nature of these presentations makes them a highlight of any trip to Moon Marble.

Visit Moon Marble

The store is filled with samples from previous demonstrations. Shoppers can choose from handmade, one-of-a-kind designs or mass-produced classics. The variety spans a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes. Moon Marble has a glass marvel for every collector. Bins and shelves overflow with colorful glass spheres. You can spend hours finding the perfect marble to take home. Whether it’s a modern work of art or a replica of a classic design, each piece tells its own story. The experience of sifting through thousands of marbles is a joy in itself. These miniature masterpieces are a testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of artists like Bruce. Moon Marble is a timeless treasure for locals and travelers alike.

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Italian Delight: A Kansas City Favorite That Stands the Test of Time

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:53:41 +0000

There was a time when Indian Springs Mall was the heart of shopping in Kansas City, Kansas. Families strolled the corridors, browsing department stores, and stopping for a bite. Tucked inside the once-bustling mall, Italian Delight served up New York-style pizza slices that became a favorite for locals. I remember grabbing a quick slice or a plate of pasta while taking a break from my job in the mall. The warm, cheesy goodness became a taste of nostalgia. It was a reminder of a place where friends and family gathered. The scent of fresh-baked dough filled the air, drawing in customers looking for a comforting meal. Visiting Italian Delight was a highlight of the shopping trip. A chance to sit, relax, and enjoy a delicious, affordable meal in a familiar setting.

Our Dying Mall

When Indian Springs Mall closed, it left a void in the community. Many longtime businesses shuttered, while others searched for new homes. Italian Delight wasn’t ready to call it quits. They packed up their recipes and moved west, ensuring their devoted customers could still enjoy the same flavors they had grown to love. The transition was not without challenges. Italian Delight’s owners remained dedicated and determined to continue their tradition. They searched for a location that offered the welcoming atmosphere their customers cherished. The move was a bittersweet moment for those who had fond memories of the mall, but their favorite pizza joint survived, carrying on their flavorful tradition.

Go West, Young Man!

Italian Delight has solidified its place as a local favorite. The new location, at 8145 State Avenue, offers a familiar feel. It’s a go-to spot for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a quick bite after a long day. Their longevity speaks to the dedication of the owners and the loyalty of its customers. Many have been coming here for years, introducing new generations to their favorite pizza spot. The restaurant’s consistency and commitment to quality keep customers returning. Whether celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends, or simply craving a classic slice, Italian Delight provides a familiar and welcoming space. The bond between the restaurant and the community is evident, proving that good food and service stand the test of time.

New Digs

The new location offers a familiar feel. Though the surroundings have changed, the welcoming atmosphere remains the same. Customers still find the friendly faces behind the counter. The space offers plentiful seating, with the smell of fresh pizza filling the air. Booths and tables invite guests to sit and savor their meals. During my lunch, a steady stream of customers filed through the doors. The menu stays true to its roots, ensuring customers can still enjoy their favorite dishes. Even with the shift in location, the spirit of Italian Delight remains unchanged, a comforting reminder of its origins at Indian Springs.

Plentiful Eats

The menu offers a variety of Italian comfort foods. Choose from oversized slices of pizza or hearty plates of pasta. Calzones, strombolis, and fresh salads round out the menu, ensuring no one leaves hungry. Everything is made with fresh ingredients, keeping the quality high and the flavors satisfying. The pizzas are hand-tossed, with perfectly crispy crusts and flavorful sauces. Their signature dishes include tasty stromboli, creamy chicken alfredo, and classic meatball subs loaded with savory goodness. Each weekday provides a different lunch special. Whether dining in or taking food to go, Italian Delight continues to serve up the flavors that have made it a cherished dining spot for years.

Solo Stop at Italian Delight

This visit to Italian Delight was a solo outing for me, a chance to revisit an old favorite. As I enjoyed a slice of pizza, memories of past visits came flooding back. It’s comforting to see that some things, like great food and friendly service, never change. Sitting in the familiar space, I watched customers come and go. The restaurant’s atmosphere is as inviting as ever, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal. It was a nostalgic trip and a reminder of how food can connect us to our past. Italian Delight has stood the test of time, proving that a good meal, fond memories, and a strong sense of community are a recipe for lasting success.

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6 Uniquely Kansas City Museums

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 04:30:00 +0000

Kansas City is a treasure trove of unique experiences, and its museums showcase a rich tapestry of culture, history, and innovation. Beyond the usual tourist stops, this city boasts a collection of one-of-a-kind museums that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore something new, these six uniquely Kansas City museums promise to leave a lasting impression. Join us as we dive into these local gems that truly capture the heart and soul of the city that we call home.

World War I Museum

The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City brings history to life with its vivid depiction of trench warfare. Walking through the recreated trenches, you get a sense of the gritty and grueling conditions faced by soldiers. The cramped quarters, muddy surroundings, and constant threat of attack highlight the daily struggles of those on the front lines. Interactive displays and authentic artifacts, such as helmets and weapons, provided us with a connection to the human stories behind the battles. This immersive experience reminds us of the resilience required to endure one of the most harrowing aspects of World War I.

Quickly Changing Landscape

The museum also delves into the technological innovations that transformed warfare during World War I. The conflict began with cavalry charges but ended with tanks leading the way. Exhibits showcase how the introduction of mechanized vehicles, like tanks, reshaped battle strategies and rendered traditional methods obsolete. Visitors can explore the evolution from horse-drawn artillery to the roaring engines of tanks that could cross rugged terrain. These advancements marked the dawn of modern warfare and underscored the war’s lasting impact on military technology. The museum provides a fascinating look at how ingenuity and necessity reshaped the battlefield.

Harry S. Truman Museum

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum offers an insightful look into the life of one of Missouri’s most notable figures. Before he became president, Truman honed his leadership skills in Kansas City politics. As a county judge, he focused on infrastructure improvements, like roads and bridges, to benefit the community. His time working under the Pendergast political machine (A story all on its own.) taught him the complexities of local government. It solidified his reputation for honesty and hard work. These early experiences shaped his approach to public service and laid the groundwork for his future in national politics.

A Tough Character

Truman faced some of the most pivotal moments in American history during his presidency. The museum’s exhibits helped us better understand how difficult these must have been. His decision to use the atomic bomb to end World War II reshaped the global landscape. Visitors can explore his role in establishing the Marshall Plan and the United Nations, both key to post-war recovery and peace efforts. Interactive displays and personal artifacts highlight his “The Buck Stops Here” philosophy. It highlights his willingness to make tough decisions. The museum captures his legacy as a leader who tackled immense challenges with resolve and integrity.

Arabia Steamboat Museum

The Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City tells the fascinating story of a vessel lost to time. In 1856, the steamboat Arabia carried settlers’ supplies and goods along the Missouri River. These were vital for the growing frontier. Disaster struck when the ship hit a submerged tree and sank near Parkville, Missouri. The river’s unpredictable waters and swift currents buried the Arabia in silt, preserving it underground for over a century. This ill-fated crash turned the ship from a routine cargo vessel into a time capsule of 19th-century life.

Treasure Trove Collection

Over 130 years later, the Arabia was unearthed. It held a treasure trove of well-preserved artifacts. This downtown museum showcases everything from fine china and tools to clothing and preserved food. These items provide an extraordinary glimpse into daily life in the 1800s. We marveled at the sheer variety of goods, from luxury items to everyday essentials. The museum’s exhibits bring history to life by connecting modern audiences with a glimpse of the past.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum celebrates our city’s pivotal role in baseball history. Kansas City was home to the Monarchs, one of the most successful teams in the Negro Leagues. The museum sits in the historic 18th and Vine District. This area has long been a vibrant hub for African American culture and commerce. Visitors are immersed in the rich legacy of the leagues and the players who made history here.

Local Legends

The Negro Leagues provided a platform for African American and Hispanic players, during segregation. It honors legends like Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, and Buck O’Neil, whose talents shaped the game despite barriers. We discovered a treasure trove of artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. These highlight the league’s role in breaking racial barriers and paving the way for integration in Major League Baseball. This journey through history showcases the resilience and talent of these players, ensuring their contributions to America’s pastime are never forgotten.

TWA Museum

The TWA Museum celebrates the legacy of one of America’s pioneering airlines. It began its journey in our hometown and became a worldwide leader in luxury travel. Founded in 1925 as Transcontinental Air Transport, the company merged with Western Air Express to become TWA. This ushered in a new era of aviation. TWA grew into a global leader that connected cities and continents by using its innovative approach to air travel. The airline was known for its cutting-edge aircraft and luxurious passenger experience, cementing its reputation as an icon of mid-20th-century aviation.

Flying the Friendly Skies

The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of TWA’s golden age. We found vintage flight attendant uniforms, original airline menus, and early aviation tools. These reflect the glamour and innovation of air travel’s early days. Exhibits include detailed models of iconic aircraft and memorabilia from TWA’s global destinations. Step into the cockpit simulator to experience a pilot’s view of flying. Peruse the rich archive of photos and documents highlighting the airline’s role in shaping the aviation industry. The museum offers a fascinating look at a bygone era of travel and Kansas City’s role in its history.

Toy & Miniature Museum

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures in Kansas City is a hidden gem filled with artistry and imagination. Its world-class collection of miniatures showcases jaw-dropping craftsmanship. The tiny recreations of furniture, architecture, and everyday objects are amazing. Each piece is meticulously crafted, often requiring hundreds of hours of work and tools as small as a needle. Walking through these exhibits feels like stepping into a miniature world, where every detail is perfect. We spotted everything from tiny classrooms to intricate artwork. These creations highlight the artistry and dedication of miniature makers, offering visitors a new appreciation for this fascinating art form.

Memories of Playtime

The museum also features an extensive collection of toys that sparked feelings of nostalgia. From classic dolls and board games to vintage action figures, these treasures reflect the evolution of play. The exhibits evoke childhood memories, reminding us of the simple joys of imagination and storytelling. Each display tells a story of the era it represents. Whether it’s a cherished favorite from your youth or a glimpse at toys from another time, this collection bridges the gap between generations and celebrates the connection we have through play.

Uniquely Kansas City Museums

Kansas City is brimming with museums that never fail to impress us. Each visit feels like uncovering a new layer of the city’s story. From the trenches of war to the tiny worlds of miniatures, these six Kansas City museums capture the essence of our hometown’s charm and history. They remind us that learning can be both fun and awe-inspiring. Whether exploring a sunken steamboat or stepping back into the golden age of aviation, we know our visit will be inspiring. These uniquely Kansas City gems ensure that every visit leaves us amazed, inspired, and eager to return for more.

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Harvey’s – A Historic Lunch Break

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 04:30:00 +0000

There’s something magical about enjoying a meal at Harvey’s during the Christmas season. This hidden gem sits in plain sight of locals and travelers alike. The setting is Kansas City’s Union Station, adorned with a huge Christmas tree, festive decorations, and twinkling lights. We were eager to dive into a delicious lunch while soaking in the charm of this local dining landmark, all dressed up for the holidays. Between the cozy vibe and the mouthwatering menu, it was the perfect spot to enjoy a historic lunch break.

Seasonal Beauty

The enormous Christmas tree is one of the most breathtaking sights during Christmas at Kansas City’s Union Station. Standing tall in the grand hall, it’s a centerpiece of holiday cheer and a perfect photo backdrop. Festive decorations and garlands surround it, adding to the magical ambiance of the space. We found ourselves captivated by the tree’s grandeur, taking a moment to soak in the beauty and joy it brings to visitors of all ages. It’s a holiday tradition that transforms Union Station into a winter wonderland.

Harvey's Nod to History

Harvey’s carries on a legacy of dining tied to the station’s rich history. The name pays homage to Fred Harvey. In the late 19th century, he revolutionized railroad dining with his renowned Harvey Houses. Union Station once served as a bustling hub for travelers, and Harvey Houses became a trusted stop for high-quality meals. While the original Harvey House is no longer in operation, Harvey’s continues the tradition of serving delicious food in a historic setting. Today, it blends modern cuisine with the timeless charm of Union Station, creating a dining experience that nods to its storied past.

Our Historic Lunch

Mel’s Spinach Salad is a fresh and flavorful delight. This vibrant dish features tender spinach leaves, topped with crispy bacon and tangy feta cheese. Slices of green apple and strawberries add layers of flavor, while the vinaigrette ties everything together. Crystal felt that the combination of textures and tastes made each bite interesting. It’s a good option for those seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing bold taste. She added grilled chicken to make sure her meal provided some solid protein.

Kansas City Flavors

KC barbecue is a temptation for vacationers and locals alike. It seems that I’m often swayed in my meal selection by a BBQ dish. Such was the case at Harvey’s. When I spotted the KC Classic, I felt compelled to test it. This dish is designed to capture the essence of Kansas City’s hearty flavors. The sandwich features sliced burnt ends piled high on toasted jalapeno cornbread. Add in cream cheese, candied jalapeno, and onion straws for some extra zest. Paired with a side of crispy fries, the KC Classic provided plenty of flavor, even though I’m not a fan of Brancato’s sauce.

Visit This Local Dining Hotspot

Our historic lunch break, at Harvey’s in Kansas City’s Union Station, was the perfect blend of food and ambiance. Surrounded by the grandeur of the station, we enjoyed a meal that felt special and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re visiting during the bustling holiday season or any time of year, Harvey’s is an ideal spot to relax and refuel. Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM, it’s a convenient choice for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. With its unique setting and flavorful menu, Harvey’s offers a dining experience as memorable as the landmark it calls home.

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Want Some Free Money? – The Money Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:17:35 +0000

They say that education is one of the best investments. Does that mean if you learn about money, you are doubling the value of your education? Perhaps my math doesn’t quite add up, but you can certainly learn a lot at The Money Museum. This FREE attraction offers a lot for all ages and helps visitors understand more about how the Federal Reserve works. You even get a treat at the end, and who wouldn’t want some free money?

Raise Your Hands if You Want to See Inside

The Money Museum is located inside the Federal Reserve Building at 1 Memorial Drive, in Kansas City, Missouri. As we made our way to our destination, our view landed on the World War 1 Museum, just across the street. While making our way to the entrance, we passed a pair of statues that represent Industry and Commerce. Inside, we passed through security and were on our way to the exhibits. Important Note – Bring an I.D. to get in.

Get to Know the Federal Resrve

The Money Museum offers an engaging way for visitors to learn about the Federal Reserve’s vital role in the U.S. economy. Through interactive exhibits, the museum explains how the Fed manages the nation’s monetary policy to ensure economic stability. We spotted displays that detail how the Federal Reserve regulates banks, controls inflation, and distributes currency. By breaking down complex financial concepts into accessible and entertaining exhibits, the Money Museum makes the Federal Reserve’s purpose clear and relatable for all ages.

Money Museum History

A large display brought the local history of the Federal Reserve to life. The exhibit showcases the establishment of the Kansas City branch, one of the original 12 Federal Reserve Banks, and explains its role in serving the central U.S. region. Through photos and stories, we learned about the bank’s contributions during economic milestones, like stabilizing the agricultural economy in the Midwest. It details the local impact of national policies and how Kansas City’s Federal Reserve Bank became a cornerstone of financial support and innovation. It also includes some surprising details. We never realized that in 1928, machine guns were used for protection. Of course, with people like John Dillinger around, you could never be too safe.

Jay's Journal

Mixed in with the displays, at the Money Museum, are placards titled Jay’s Journal. These engaging displays are designed to help younger visitors learn about the Federal Reserve Bank. We followed “Jay,” a fictional character inspired by real employees, as he guided us through tasks like currency processing and ensuring secure cash distribution. The exhibit provided fascinating insights into how the Federal Reserve functions behind the scenes, all while showcasing the human element of this vital institution. It was a creative and memorable way to connect with the history and mission of the Kansas City branch.

Getting Our Hands on Money

As we made our way through the Money Museum, we spotted a real gold bar on display. We watched as visitors tested its weight, thanks to the interactive feature that lets you try to lift it! The exhibit explained the significance of gold in the Federal Reserve’s history and its role in maintaining economic stability. Before we left, we grabbed a bag of free shredded cash as a quirky souvenir. It was fun to think about the thousands of dollars that were once in circulation, now transformed into an educational memento. The mix of history, hands-on activities, and memorable keepsakes makes this Kansas City attraction unique.

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Vibrant Spirits & Colorful Souls: Experiencing Día de Muertos in Kansas City, Kansas

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Every fall, as the cool October air begins to settle over Kansas City, Kansas, something truly magical takes place in the heart of the city. Día de Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, transforms Central Avenue into a vivid celebration of life, memory, and tradition. Amid a backdrop of city vibes, soulful music, and artful altars, this unique festival invites visitors to experience an ancient cultural heritage that honors the loved ones who have passed on. Here, families gather with friends, neighbors, and travelers alike, celebrating with an unforgettable and inspiring blend of joy and reverence.

A Growing Neighborhood

Central Avenue is alive with color, music, and energy during the Day of the Dead celebration. The street pulses with the energy of thousands of revelers. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good street festival? The cooler weather reminds us that these events will only be memories during the harsh Midwest winter to come. With a chance for one last hurrah, the crowds throng to the area. The sidewalks are packed with people anticipating the sights, sounds, and flavors awaiting them.

Día de Muertos

Día de Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a deeply meaningful Mexican holiday that honors the lives of deceased loved ones by celebrating their memory. Rooted in ancient Aztec traditions, the holiday embraces death as a natural part of life, rather than something to be feared. It is believed that during this time, the spirits of the departed return to the world of the living to reunite with their families. Families create elaborate altars, or ofrendas, adorned with photographs, favorite foods, marigolds, candles, and symbolic items to welcome and guide their spirits home. The holiday is solemn and joyful, blending reverence with festivity to reinforce the belief that those who have passed remain connected to the living, loved, and remembered.

Sounds of Celebration

The celebration pulses with the sounds of merriment. Ten stages line Central Avenue, and provide an electrifying array of entertainment. Each stage pulses with life, showcasing a unique blend of performances that honor Mexican culture and the spirit of the holiday. Locals and visitors are treated to traditional mariachi bands and captivating folkloric dance troupes. Local musicians add a modern twist, filling the air with the sounds of celebration. Storytellers and community leaders also take the stage to share the significance of Día de Muertos. The celebration on Central Avenue transforms the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, into a cultural hub, honoring the beauty of remembrance through music, art, and community.

Local Flavors Abound

Kansas City’s diverse culinary offerings reach a peak during Día de Muertos, with local vendors showcasing authentic Mexican street food that draws festival-goers to every stand. The scent of fresh tamales, warm churros, and spicy tacos al pastor fills the air. Locally loved eateries open their doors to invite the crowd inside. The festive spirit finds its way into every dish, uniting visitors over shared bites and a love for unique flavors.

Temptation on Every Corner

Local artisans and crafters line the streets, each stand filled with handmade treasures that celebrate Mexican culture and the spirit of Día de Muertos. Intricately painted sugar skulls, known as calaveras, catch the eye, while beaded jewelry, woven blankets, and hand-painted pottery tempt shoppers looking for a unique keepsake. Talented artists sell traditional art pieces alongside contemporary creations, each reflecting the vibrancy of Mexican heritage. There’s something almost magical about each vendor’s wares—souvenirs that remind visitors of the importance of honoring the past while celebrating the present.

The Stars of the Celebration

Among the most striking sights at Kansas City’s Día de los Muertos celebration are the Catrinas, elegant skeletal figures dressed in flamboyant attire. Inspired by the iconic work of Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada, the Catrinas have become symbolic figures for Día de Muertos. With elaborate hats, flowing dresses, and intricately painted faces, these skeletal women represent the notion that death is a part of life, one to be embraced rather than feared. Here in KCK, visitors can see living Catrinas, which adds a surreal beauty to the event.

History of Catrinas

The Catrinas originated as a satirical illustration by Posada in the early 20th century, aiming to criticize the upper class who tried to emulate European aristocracy. Posada’s message was clear: no matter one’s social standing, everyone ultimately meets the same fate. This idea resonated so deeply that the Catrina became a beloved symbol in Mexican culture, evolving into an emblem of Día de Muertos. Today, Catrinas remind us to celebrate life, honor death, and cherish every moment. On Central Avenue, the Catrinas serve as both a respectful homage to tradition and a striking testament to the cultural depth of Día de los Muertos.

Remember This Annual KCK Event

As KC locals, the annual Day of the Dead celebration holds a special place in our hearts. This vibrant event brings our community together in a colorful display of tradition and remembrance. Walking down Central Avenue, we’re swept up in the music, the swirling skirts of folkloric dancers, and the tempting aromas. We love capturing the beautifully adorned ofrendas, which honor loved ones with marigolds, candles, and mementos. It’s more than just an event; it’s a powerful reminder of how culture and memory keep us all connected. Whether we’re snapping photos of intricately decorated sugar skulls, classically adored Catrinas, or just street scenes, we’re reminded why this celebration is one of our favorite times to be both locals and travel bloggers in our own hometown.

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Hands-on Fun At Museum at Prairiefire

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:30:00 +0000

We consider ourselves blessed to reside in a city with many diverse attractions. Museums are one of our favorite destinations, and the Museum at Prairiefire fits a specific niche in this category. The museum is inside the Prairiefire neighborhood at 5801 W. 135th Street in Overland Park, Kansas. The building is the first in North America to utilize dichroic glass on the exterior. It is designed to absorb the light on the outside as one color, but it becomes a different color on the interior. It was a fun addition to our visit filled with hands-on fun.

Dino Life

Stepping through the entrance we found ourselves in the huge Great Hall. After paying the $5 admission fee, we jumped in to exploring the museum. Our first stop was in the front gallery where their T-Rex resides. This full-sized replica of the King of the Dinosaurs towered over us, as it appears to be keeping an eye on the museum entrance.

A Kansas Explorer

The skeleton of the T-Rex was discovered by Barnum Brown, the famous Kansas paleontologist. This graduate from Kansas University uncovered the original pieces in the mountains of Montana. A series of informational placards tell about Barnum, and how the processes he put into place are still being used by scientists today.

Digital Dinosaurs

Across the Great Hall from the T-Rex is an area where visitors can create their own “digital” dinosaur. Crystal and I took turns selecting the region where we would dig for fossils, and then designed what our specimen would look like. You get to name your “pet”, before releasing it into the wild of the digital monitor in the Great Hall. It would be the start of our hands-on fun.

Stepping Out

Once released, it will wander periodically across the screen, and appear to be right alongside of you. This was especially interesting when one of the creatures would stop and make sounds. I was able to capture this Velociraptor as it let me know who was boss. During our visit, we passed back through this area a few times. We would find ourselves viewing the big screen, to see what creatures had been created by others. This exhibit is addictive for visitors of all ages.

Discovery Room

The second floor, at the Museum at Prairiefire, holds The Discovery Room. This hands-on area is designed for kids 3 to 12. To be honest, it was fun for us kids, who are a little beyond those numbers. The main area contains five different scientific fields, as well as a separate room for astronomy. The layout of the room makes it easy to quickly assess which areas are the most busy, so visitors can pace their visit around the room.

Meet My Little Friend

The invertebrate area is filled with plenty of creepy-crawlers, with which we share the planet. Visitors are given a chance to hold one of the hissing cockroaches, which is a new kind of hands-on fun. Once it was resting in my hand it didn’t want to leave. Obviously, I am blessed with a little insect magnetism versus Crystal’s same skill with animals. In the Field Biology section we were introduced to some of the larger creatures that call the museum home. A Pygmy Hedgehog, Bearded Dragons, and even Poison Dart Frogs can be viewed.

Virtual Traveling

The Museum at Prairiefire offers Virtual Reality journeys in their admission price. We’ve had the opportunity to experience VR in other cities and know that it usually comes with an additional cost. We popped in, when we saw the door open, and soon we were geared up and ready to go. On a previous visit we explored Stonehenge. Another time we traveled into space on a rocket. This visit our experience focused on nature. It’s worth the admission price just to visit the VR room.

Hands-on Fun Galore

The Museum at Prairiefire is proof that smaller venues can provide just as much value. While the museum is smaller than many we’ve visited, it is just as interesting. They’ve streamlined their exhibits to be more interactive and educational. By including an assortment of hands-on experiences, it draws in visitors for a better connection with the exhibits. We expect to see more of this type of science museums popping up over the coming years. You can bet we’ll be watching for them and we’ll share them with all of you.

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The Waiting Game At Joe’s KC BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:30:00 +0000

It seems that the whole world has seen or read something about Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que. When we think of KC barbeque restaurants, this is one of the most well-known. The love for Kansas City-style barbecue is strong enough, that on any given day, you can see license plates from across America. A visit to one of Joe’s KC restaurants will usually result in taking a turn at the waiting game. Although the lines may be long, Joe’s staff has refined the ordering process to a fine art. This helps them serve the largest number of customers efficiently.

A Prestigious Past

Even though their delectable dishes are familiar to many, their rise to fame is less well-known. Kansas City is a barbecue town. The smoke of hundreds of grills rises above our sports stadiums on game days. New KC barbeque restaurants appear regularly, with hope of rising to the national acclaim of Joe’s KC. Many rely upon the laurels they receive at barbeque competitions and invitationals to fuel their success. (You can read about another contest-winning BBQ here.) Jeff and Joy Stehney were bitten by the barbeque bug after attending their first competition. Their passion grew to the point that they started their own team, named Slaughterhouse Five. Before long, their collection of awards was piling up.

Playing the Waiting Game

On the BBQ circuit, competitors often become friends. Striking up a relationship with the founder of the Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Company helped the Stehneys enter the restaurant business. By 1996, their first store opened in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The legend of Oklahoma Joe’s BBQ had begun. They wouldn’t have to play the waiting game before their next break would appear. It was less than a year later, when a space inside a local Kansas City gas station became available. Being close to their home, this was the perfect fit and Oklahoma Joe’s BBQ launched in Kansas City. The business partnership ended when the owner of the smoker company sold his share and moved to Texas.

Spreading the BBQ Love

Today, there are three Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que locations (Their new name). That seems the way the Stehneys want it to stay. To date, we have visited the KCK and Olathe locations. We’ve played the waiting game, joining the hungry crowds yearning for a lunchtime meal. The line moved steadily, and it didn’t take long for us to get our turn at the counter. The time in line allowed us to determine our choices, and soon we were at a table ready to dine. Of course, first, we need to get photos.

Carolina Meets Midwest

I was longing for something besides my usual pork ribs. I spotted the Carolina Pork Sandwich and immediately chose my dinner. It starts with a heaping helping of pulled pork. This is covered with a healthy dose of spicy Cole slaw and “Bubba’s” sauce. Add in a handful of crisp fries and I was ready to dine. The flavor was good but no specific taste stood out from the others. Next time I’ll add an extra shot of BBQ sauce.

What's in a Name?

The Z-Man Sandwich is quite a flavorful treat. To commemorate the creation of this masterpiece, a contest was held to name it. Mike Zarrick, a local sports radio jockey, played up the new sandwich on air. With a growing audience and a cool nickname, the Z-Man feverishly promoted Joe’s and their sandwich. By the end of the contest, the name Z-Man became the way many people would order the sandwich. Crystal’s version was altered to include burnt ends and remove the cheese. It still featured the crispy onion rings and a drizzle of sauce.

The Wait is Over

These days, the Stahneys continue to share their love for barbeque with as many as possible. The magic of the smoke still captures their hearts and is the drive behind their desire to create the best barbeque in the Midwest. With this passion still burning, each day brings them another chance to endear new fans. As with any cuisine, BBQ lovers have their favorites and many hold allegiance to only one or two. We have found a love for all barbeque since each location has its unique flavors. Places like Joe’s KC Bar-B-Que help spread the message of Kansas City barbeque far and wide. In the end, this type of notoriety helps keep the KC BBQ spirit alive and growing. What are some of your favorite Kansas City barbeque joints?

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Tay’s Burger Shack – Grass Fed Goodness

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:20:00 +0000

It’s been said that the simple things are quite often the best. Such is the case at Tay’s Burger Shack, located at 1019 Armour Road, in North Kansas City, Missouri. You won’t find page after page of menu items. Here they focus on a few things and they do them right. This hole-in-the-wall eatery has built its reputation on flavor. Their burgers are filled with grass-fed goodness and the hand-cut fries top off a meal. Date Night gave us a reason to head this way and our bellies were anxious for the tastes.

Simple Digs

Cruising along Armour Road, you see a hodge-podge of restaurants, shops, and businesses. Suddenly up ahead, our destination came into view. Pulling up to Tay’s, you won’t find an elaborate dining hall. The main focus at Tay’s Burger Shack is burgers. Outside they have a couple of picnic tables for diners wanting to enjoy the fresh air. We wanted the whole experience, so dining indoors was on our schedule.

The Atmosphere at Tay's Burger Shack

Stepping through the door, you enter a small venue. Seating is limited to about six tables and four booths, enough for roughly 40 people. At times, the non-stop flow of customers challenges this capacity. Those who have eaten here before are willing to overlook this shortcoming. The food makes this little inconvenience a non-issue. Tay’s Burger Shack workers are friendly and often walk through the dining area to ensure customer expectations are being met. How frequently does this happen at the burger joints you frequent? Once your order is placed, you grab your drink and head for your seat. They will bring your meals to you, but until then you have to take in the sounds, sights and smells of others enjoying their food.

What about that Menu?

Customers can choose between single, double, or triple burger. Those wanting even more can go all-in with the “Homerun”, made with four patties. The beef they use is grass-fed, and the patties are about a quarter-pound each, before cooking. The beef is sourced locally, as are many other ingredients. The cooked meat patties are sandwiched inside buns that are baked fresh daily. This commitment to freshness comes through in the flavor of their product. Of course, don’t feel like you are limited to burgers. Tay’s also serves Nathan’s hot dogs, with or without chili. By the way, the chili is made with the same great Missouri-raised beef.

The Food at Tay's Burger Shack

We both chose to experience the double combo meals with fries. These are served with American cheese, pickles, tomato, and lettuce. Our food was delivered, and we prepared for the tasting. You’ll notice the standard condiments are available at each table. What wasn’t normal were the other two squirt bottles, one each of sriracha mayo and sriracha ketchup. Be warned that these pack some heat! The burgers were juicy, without being greasy. This comes from their choice of beef. The patties are cooked to perfection and offer just a little char along the edges, for crispness. The fresh buns complement the crispy toppings, and the blending of flavors makes each bite delicious.

Sharing is Caring

The hand-cut French fries have a nice kick all on their own. We’ve seen other diners dipping their fries in some of the sriracha sauces. For us, they were good just the way they were presented. Thin strips of slightly firm potato quickly become an addictive addition to the burger. Our bill tallied about $35.00, similar to other non-fast-food burger joints. Neither of us could finish our food, and we walked away from Tay’s Burger Shack well-fed and happy. We’ll mark this up as another successful date night adventure.

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GG’s Barbacoa Cafe – Chef Inspired Cuisine

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 17 May 2024 03:45:00 +0000

How many times do we drive past a hole-in-the-wall destination without even noticing? If we are being honest with ourselves, this happens to us more than we like to admit. A prime example is a small restaurant that sits at 1032 Minnesota Ave., in Kansas City, Kansas. Home to GG’s Barbacoa Café, this petite diner hides the amazing dishes that can be found inside. Originally, our friend clued us in on this hidden gem, and we could hardly wait to sample their plates. (Thank you Edgar Galicia for the solid advice!) Now we were back for more and were ready for more chef inspired cuisine.

We want to thank Visit Kansas City, Kansas, and GG’s Barbacoa Café for their hospitality. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

GG’s Barbacoa Pleasing Plates

The menu is comprised of a variety of photos that showcase your choices. It may seem an unusual method, but it does have a nice benefit. For people who like to take photos of their food, (Always!) it helps us see what to expect. Crystal and I decided to divide and conquer a little of the menu. Her choice was the Enchiladas Casserolas. A delightful stack of flavorful chicken is topped with a corn tortilla and fried eggs. This is decorated with salsa and sour cream, with the flair of chef-inspired cuisine. Sides of Spanish rice and refried beans round out this filling meal.

Tacos for Breakfast?

I had a hankering for some tacos and GG’s didn’t let me down. He walked me through my options and we settled on Barbacoa Breakfast Tacos. Doubled-up corn tortillas are the vehicle that gets all of the delicious fillings to your mouth. These included barbacoa beef, fluffy eggs, and creamy shredded cheese. They added some chopped cilantro and onions that could be spread as light or thick as preferred. Each tender bite was a mouthful of morning satisfaction. A heaping helping of Horchata added a sweet edge to my meal.

Chef Inspired Cuisine

By the time we finished our dishes, we found our appetites quenched. To our surprise, the owner Gabriel Gonzalez, brought us a plate of dessert. He wanted to thank us for all of the love we have shown him over the years. The creative design of the plate showed the chef-inspired style that is imparted on many of the dishes. We are always impressed at the artistic design he and his wife put into their work. The flavors and textures came at us in layers, just like a dessert should.

A Hidden Gem

When we mention hidden gems, sometimes they are in plain sight. Too often they blend into the landscape or sit in locations that make it difficult to observe. GG’s Barbacoa Café may be out in the open, but it’s easy to overlook when cruising along this thoroughfare. Although the owner has gone to great lengths to make it more noticeable. This new location puts them near another of our favorite KCK eateries, Tao Tao Chinese Restaurant. Everything about this visit proved to us that GG’s Barbacoa Cafe delivers consistency and flavor. What more could we ask for?

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Up Up And Away to the TWA Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 04:30:00 +0000

Let’s see a show of hands of the people who knew there was a TWA Museum in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. An unseasonably warm Saturday morning was the perfect chance to check it out. Located at 10 Richards Road, in the Charles B. Wheeler Airport, this unique museum highlights the 75-year lifespan of the airline. Arriving at the opening, we had plenty of time to get up, up, and away with TWA. While the airline no longer exists in this name, its spirit still beats with its employees.

We want to thank the TWA Museum for its hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

TWA Through The Years

The TWA Museum shares a building with an airline service that is still in business. This made for an interesting visit, as we watched a few planes taking off and landing during our visit. As you approach the museum entrance, you will find an assortment of historical pictures and memorabilia. Timeline boards highlight the chronology of the airline’s existence. Here we found interesting articles about some of the historic events that involved the airline and its employees.

Entrance Information for TWA Museum

At the end of the hall, you come to the official entrance to the museum. You will be greeted by one of the museum staff, who will happen to be a volunteer. The entire staff at the TWA Museum is made up of volunteers, and about 90% of these are former TWA employees. Admission is $12.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors, and children 6-16 pay $6.00. Anyone in the party younger than that will get free admission. Heading into the first gallery, we found ourselves in a room packed full of aviation artifacts.

The Early Years

Transcontinental & Western Air was born from a merger in 1930. Much of the air travel of those days was focused on the delivery of mail and goods. Charles Lindbergh was one of the founding members of the airline, having come from the Transcontinental Air Transport side of the merger. William “Jack” Frye came from the Western Air Express side and ended up serving as president of the newly created airline from 1934 until 1947. The high-profile pilots that TWA secured brought an air of credibility to TWA, and it became known as “The Airline run by Flyers”. Another notable celebrity from the airline’s early years was Amelia Earhart.

Time For Change

In 1931, the airline suffered a setback when one of its wooden planes crashed on its way to Wichita, Kansas. The death of eight people was compounded by one of them being football coach, Knute Rockne. The crash discredited the use of wooden-framed aircraft and helped usher in the era of all-metal planes. This change would also create the research needed to allow aircraft to fly at higher altitudes, which would have been impossible without pressurization. In 1937, the Boeing Stratoliner began flying the skies and became the first commercial plane with pressurized cabins. In 1938, Howard Hughes agreed to purchase 25% of the airline. By 1941, Hughes had a controlling interest, and the airline prospered during World War II. By the latter half of the 1940s, internal strife had dealt significant blows to the airline, and by 1958 the executive offices moved from Kansas City to New York City.

Golden Age of Air Travel

In the 1930s, the airlines had strict requirements for their flight attendants, which included the requirement that they were nurses. During those days planes flew at much lower altitudes since they weren’t pressurized. This led to excessive turbulence on many flights and more illnesses than we see these days. The idea of having nurses was they would be reassuring for the passengers. As flight comfort improved, so did the quality of items carried on the planes. The styles of the times were quite often reflected in the items found during flights. How many of these items do you remember?

Moving With The Times

Flight attendants found that their uniforms also changed with the times. Some were designed to match current styles, while others were meant to be used during certain promotions. The TWA Museum even has uniforms on display that were made of paper. For almost one year, TWA tinkered with the idea of making their domestic flights more dramatic. They would designate one of four specific styles for each flight, and attendants were supplied uniforms to match the style, just before boarding. These paper uniforms were one size fits all, and ever-increasing logistical issues caused the early abandonment of this promotion.

Getting Hands-on

The 1951 flood highlighted the need to create a new airport away from the often swollen riverbanks. This was the spark needed to build the new international airport north of the metro. At its peak, TWA employed over 20,000 employees and was one of the largest employers in the Kansas City area. TWA led the way in many areas of the commercial aviation field. It was the first airline to hire an African-American flight attendant and did so in 1958. In 1961, it became the first American airline to show in-flight movies. TWA developed the innovative idea to move gate access closer to the street level. This was to provide quicker service to customers. It became a costly endeavor when the hijackings of the 1960s forced tighter security measures.

Dizzying Array

Once we finished in the first couple of galleries, a former employee asked if we wanted to visit the hangar. The first thing we spotted was a 1930s-era research plane. They let us inside to check it out and Crystal quickly took command. After prying her out of the pilot’s seat, we made our way to a couple more exhibits. These were set up to display how TWA employees would have trained. Various pieces of equipment allow hands-on practice. Just looking at the dizzying array of switches and buttons reminded us how complicated air travel can be behind the scenes. It’s a far cry from a seat in the cabin with a cold drink.

Fun Memories

TWA was such an integral part of American life, that there are even a couple of display cases filled with toys based on the airline. The TWA logo adorns model planes, helicopters, cars, trucks, and other assorted items. I remember some of these from my youth, as I am sure most people would. The depth of saturation that this company had into American life shows just how integral its role was to the public. As our time at the TWA Museum drew to an end, we returned to the main galleries. Here is where many of the volunteers wait for new visitors to arrive for tours.

TWA Museum Discussions

Our visit lasted about 1.5 hours. Even before making it to our car, we were already reminiscing about stories we had read. For your visit be sure to allow plenty of time to see, hear, and explore this unique Kansas City museum. You can visit them on Wednesday through Saturday. They are open from 10:00 to 4:00 each of those days but double-check if the weather is especially bad. Be prepared to find a lot of unbelievable items, as the museum covers 75 years of airline history. It’s certainly a stop that will provide a ton of conversation starters.

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Preserving History at the Arabia Steamboat Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 04:30:00 +0000

When we think of the Wild West, visions of chuckwagons, cattle drives, and lonely cowboys play out in our minds. The steam engine, invented in the early 1800s, impacted the path of history. As the country raced to build railroads across the wide expanses, the age of steamboats arrived. Living on the confluence of two mighty waterways, we can imagine the days when steamboats were commonplace. A sunny Spring morning found us on our way to the Arabia Steamboat Museum, to learn more about this unique style of transportation.

We want to thank the Arabia Steamboat Museum for their hospitality. Rest assured that all opinions are our own.

River Transportation

Mark Twain once lamented that “(Riverboat) Pilot was the grandest position of all.” The Arabia was a side-wheeled steamer built in 1853. By 1856, Arabia was making regular trips up and down the Missouri River. In March of that year, Arabia had a collision with an obstacle and required repairs to the rudder. That same month the ship was searched by pro-slavery members near Lexington, Missouri. Weapons destined for Free-staters in Kansas territory were discovered in crates labeled “Carpenters Tools”. They were confiscated and the ship continued its journey.

Creating a Legend

Each river journey opened ships up to unique dangers. Many steamboats were lost due to high-pressure boiler explosions. The rolling waters were constantly altering the riverbed. Rising and falling water levels uncovered new sandbars. In September 1856, Arabia struck a submerged snag at the Quindaro Bend, which is near Parkville, Missouri. Water rushed in through the hull, and the ship quickly sank. Passengers and crew scrambled to the upper decks to avoid drowning.

Unfortunate Passenger

In the end, all 130 people on board made it safely to shore. The only casualty from the accident was a mule that had been tethered to a lower floor. Forgotten in all of the confusion, it was left behind as the ship sank into the dark waters. It would be the 1980s before the Arabia would once again see daylight. Our visit to the Arabia Steamboat Museum began in the gift shop, where guests purchase their tickets. After descending a ramp to the gallery level, visitors will see the steam engine from the Missouri Packet. In 1820, this early ship was the first recorded steam-powered vessel to sink on the Missouri River.

Arabia Steamboat Museum

Looking up, we spotted a wagon loaded with barrels of Kentucky Bourbon. It was rumored that this type of cargo was onboard Arabia, but none was recovered. The common belief is that if it had been part of the shipment, it was probably being stored up on the main deck. In that case, it would have floated away during the sinking of the ship. We continued into the main gallery area, where a description of the dig site was given, as well as seeing part of the stern on display.

Artistic Artifacts

Passing into the exhibit galleries, we saw the huge paddlewheel slowly turning. We could almost imagine ourselves on the deck of a ship, traveling along the Muddy Missouri. This was the golden age of river travel and large amounts of cargo were transported to blossoming frontier towns. Arabia was 171 feet long and could carry over 200 tons of cargo. The sharp whistle would signal the arrival of a steamboat. Stopping at towns along the river, we can imagine the bustle of activity as ships were unloaded.

Craftsman Supplies

The Arabia Steamboat Museum is set up in an oval shape, and visitors work their way through at their own pace. The Arabia was carrying about 220 tons of goods at the time it sank. Most of this was destined for sixteen towns along the river. This left many frontier craftsmen without the materials needed to create their products.

Daily Necessities

As we walked through the gallery, we saw massive displays of goods that looked almost new. There are rows upon rows of glassware, dishes, coffee pots, and other items used in daily life on the prairie. It’s hard to imagine these goods spent 152 years buried in the mud of a Wyandotte County cornfield. The Missouri River changed its course not long after the Arabia Steamboat sank. While many searched for the ship, it was not until 1988 that a group of treasure seekers located it.

Clothing Galore

The treasures of the Arabia Steamboat Museum include a wide range of products. Since the ship was scheduled to deliver to numerous frontier stores, you can imagine how broad the inventory was. As I looked out upon the vast supply, it made me wonder about the people in those small towns. Who knows how long they had been waiting for their supplies, only to discover them lost to the muddy Missouri River.

Oodles of Items

The various displays showcase the breadth of the inventory. Colorful glass bottles were filled with liquor and condiments. Preserved fruits for pie making were packed along with jars of sweet pickles. Buttons, beads, and tools were abundant. One display exhibit is filled with thousands of hardware pieces that would have been needed for the construction of homes and businesses.

The Work Continues

Not all of the merchandise recovered is even on display. After recovering all of the cargo, there was still the overwhelming task of preservation. During excavation, most of the pieces were frozen in blocks of ice. These were moved to freezers to maintain their condition. Each piece has to be meticulously cleaned, repaired and stabilized. To stabilize the leather and garment pieces, they were first soaked in preservatives and then freeze-dried on-site in the museum. While we were touring, we spotted a school group getting a tour. Staff explained the details of the restoration process to the eager crowd and we felt no shame listening in.

Visit Arabia Steamboat Museum

At the end of your visit, you can see the anchor and capstan that were used to hold the Arabia in place when it was at rest. It is a fitting end to the displays found in this one-of-a-kind museum. The Arabia Steamboat Museum is open 7 days a week, except for major holidays. Tours run every half hour, with the last one starting at 3:30. Admission is $16.50 for adults, and $15.50 for seniors 60 and older. Children 4 to 14 get in for $6.50, and younger than that are free. We found that about 1.5 to 2 hours are needed to check out all of the exhibits. It’s a great activity to add during a visit to the KC City Market.

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Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum – Eating Up History

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 04:23:00 +0000

What do you get when you combine delicious food and an astonishing collection of sports memorabilia? Located in North Kansas City, Missouri is Chappell’s Restaurant and Sports Museum. This sports fan Mecca opened in 1986 and has drawn visitors from far and wide. Notoriety has come from many directions, including lots of the top sports news channels. Located at 323 Armour Road, this destination was calling our names.

Heads Up

A visit to Chappell’s Restaurant is like walking through sports history. The interior walls are covered with photos, articles, and framed collectibles. Football helmets and pennants cover the ceilings. Awards of all types are scattered throughout the place. Sports equipment, much of it autographed, hangs and sits in places of honor. No matter how long you look around, it seems like there is always more to see. It is not unusual to see people wandering around the place checking out all of the nooks and crannies.

Local Legends

It wouldn’t be a hometown favorite if it didn’t include plenty of Kansas City memorabilia. Autographed photographs, sports equipment, and uniforms from various Kansas City teams are found here. There are even items from teams before moving to the Kansas City region. Of course, there are plenty of other teams represented. It is estimated that there are over 10,000 pieces in the collection. That’s easy to believe after walking through more than 7000 square feet of space. The only open spots, we noticed, were behind the bar. The bar is home to the 1973 World Series trophy, from the Oakland Athletics.

Lunch At Chappell's Restaurant

Our visit was a perfect opportunity to grab a bite and refresh our memories. The menu at Chappell’s restaurant has dozens of tasty opportunities. A good selection of appetizers and salads can be had, but we were set on some burgers. The restaurant touts its half-pound burgers, which are served with a side dish. I have to admit, it’s hard to concentrate on the menu when there is so much sports eye-candy to scope out.

Piled High

With a menu packed full of tasty dishes, it would have been easy to change our minds. We stayed true to our purpose and each chose a burger. The 323 Burger sounded too good to pass up and we both ended up ordering one. The 1/2 lb. patty was topped with horseradish sauce, arugula, crispy bacon, Blue cheese crumbles, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Crystal selected the Curly Fries, while I substituted Sweet Potato Fries. Our first bites were enough to confirm our choice. The juicy burgers were quickly eliminated, as we continued to scan the walls.

Plan Your Visit To Chappell's Restaurant

A visit to Chappell’s Restaurant means that you get a meal and an attraction, all for one price. At almost any other place you would have to pay an admission to see the quantity and quality of items on display. Here you simply have to show up. This one-of-a-kind restaurant is a jewel in North Kansas City. Be sure to belly up to the bar on your next visit, and check out that World Series trophy. Now if they could just secure the 1985 Royal’s version or maybe a Chief’s Super Bowl trophy.

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10 Kid Friendly Indoor Attractions In Kansas City

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:32:00 +0000

Kansas City has an average of 100 rainy days per year. That may not sound like a lot, unless you have kids (or grandkids). What’s a parent (or grandparent) to do when the weather doesn’t cooperate for an outdoor activity? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of 10 kid friendly indoor attractions in Kansas City. While most have an admission cost, some are FREE or low-cost. All of them are designed to elicit smiles and entertain all ages. Please note that the admission costs were current for February 2024, so doublecheck the websites before heading out.

Toy & Miniature Museum

Let’s start with an attraction that blew us away. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures may be a mouthful to say, but it’s not just the name that will leave you speechless. The first floor is filled with tiny replicas of just about anything you can imagine. The details are best seen with the magnifying glasses that the museum provides. Be sure to head to the second floor to check out their collection of toys from throughout the ages. You’re sure to spot some that you played with as a child. Location: 5235 Oak Street – Admission: Adults $8 and Children $5

Money Museum

How about visiting an attraction that pays you to come indoors? The Money Museum is located at the Federal Reserve Building and is a great place to learn about our currency. Kids of all ages can try to lift a gold bar and see how much it’s worth. You’ll learn about inflation and counterfeiting through interactive exhibits. Before you leave, pick up a bag of shredded currency to take as a souvenir. Be sure to bring an I.D., since you’ll have to pass through airport level security. Location: 1 Memorial Drive – Admission: FREE

Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions KC proves that not everything is what it seems. This Union Station attraction unfolds the mystery of forced perspective. Become a bodiless head with the aid of mirrors. Be sure to bring a camera or phone to capture some incredible selfie opportunities. The staff has marked the best viewing spots to help maximize your experience. Location: Inside Union Station – Admission: Adults $15 and Children $10

Science City

Our list of kid friendly indoor attractions would be incomplete without mentioning Science City. This place has been a Kansas City favorite for more than two decades. Loaded with a dizzying array of activities, you’ll want to plan plenty of time for your visit. While the grandkids enjoy this place, I believe Crystal and I are two of the biggest kids in the place. Wear your comfortable shoes and don’t be afraid to join in on the fun. Location: Inside Union Station – Admission: Adults and Children $16.50

Sea Life

Living in the landlocked Midwest, it’s not often we get to view sea creatures. This changed when they opened Sea Life Kansas City. These days we are just a short drive from petting starfish. Watching the variety of fish swimming through the tanks is mesmerizing and we could do it for hours. After your visit be sure to stop by Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant for a meal delivered by a train. Location: Inside Crown Center – Admission: Adults and Children $19.99

Prehistoric Golf

The newest of the 10 kid friendly indoor attractions in Kansas City has to be Prehistoric Putt. We are huge fans of mini-golf, so we couldn’t wait to challenge the grandkids to a round. Each hole presents unique obstacles that force players to get creative. I never expected to be ziplining during a round of golf but once we did, we wanted to do it over and over again. We don’t know who won (we don’t keep score) but everyone had a blast. Location: 13907 E. US Hwy 40 – Admission: Adults $10 and Children $6 per round

Nelson Museum

Looking to add a little culture to your day? Why not plan an outing to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This world class museum is filled with amazing exhibits. Whether you’re a fan of modern art or prefer the classics, you’ll find plenty of examples. Keep an eye on their calendar of events to add another level of fun to your visit. This place has been a family favorite for decades. If the weather allows, step outside to check out their outdoor art walk. Location: 4525 Oak Street – Admission: FREE

Kemper Museum

If you’re looking for even more art, hop over to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. This place focuses on engaging the younger crowd with interesting events. We love that they have plenty of revolving exhibits, so every visit is fresh and new. Location: 4420 Warwick Boulevard – Admission: FREE

Prairiefire

We love museums and Kansas City is home to some amazing ones. One of the newest arrivals is Museum at Prairiefire. Approaching from the west, our first view was the dichroic glass exterior that shows as a different color on the inside. This museum focuses on S.T.E.A.M. education so be prepared for lots of hands-on activities. From dinosaurs (my favorite) to outer space, this place covers it all. Location: 5801 W. 135th Street – Admission: Adults and Children $5

Scheels

You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy a visit to Scheels. A cold winter day was the perfect setting for a visit with our grandkids. After viewing their array of taxidermized animals, we turned our attention to the indoor Ferris wheel. Afterwards, we discovered the mini-bowling and shooting gallery. Our visit turned even sweeter with a stop at their fudge shop. Location: 6503 W. 135th Street – Admission: FREE but some activities have fees

Enjoy KC's Kid Friendly Indoor Attractions

Whether you are just visiting Kansas City or you’re a lifelong resident, you’ll find plenty of all-ages activities. We love exploring these with our grandkids but just as often it’s just the two of us. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and join in the fun. Age is just a number and we find that being playful helps keep our spirits young. We hope you feel the same way and will give a few of these spots a visit. Have fun!

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Delivering Crunch – Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 09:34:01 +0000

Growing up in the Midwest, we discovered the depth of flavors that can be found in this region’s dishes. I remember waiting impatiently as my grandmother fried up chicken for Saturday night dinner. The smell was intoxicating and I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the crispy coating. Fast forward a few decades and I’m still a huge fan of crispy chicken. These days we’ve found a place that’s delivering crunch with a little extra kick. A visit to Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is an opportunity to relive those early days of family dinners but with a little more heat.

Yellow is the Color of Flavor

Gus’s Fried Chicken is located at 2816 W. 47th Street, in Kansas City, Kansas. A few years back, this area was fading, but a recent resurgence has brought life back to the neighborhood. These days you’ll find a handful of tasty dining options. Across the parking lot is 1889 Pizza Napoletana, which has plenty of interesting pies. Beyond that is Joe’s KC BBQ that has earned a national reputation for delivering Kansas City barbecue flavor. It’s hard to imagine another area this packed with unique tastes.

Feeling Homey

We’ve always been fans of consistency and Gus’s has found a way to incorporate that into their service. It’s easy for us to remember when they are open, as it is from 11:00 to 9:00 every day. This makes it easy for us to pop in for lunch, dinner, or to grab a snack to go. The eclectic seating arrangements makes it feel like dinner on Saturday at grandma’s. Unmatched chairs and checkerboard tablecloths bring that southern comfort into play. With plenty of room to spread out, we were ready to dig into some delicious fried chicken.

Heaping Helpings

The menu at Gus’s is simple and direct. Most of it focuses on their world famous chicken, but they also have fried catfish at times. We seem to gravitate to the same meals on each visit. Crystal is all about the Four Tender Meal. She’ll vary her choice of sides between beans and fries, but always gets the Cole slaw. I still remember her first taste and the realization that they season with southern spices. I could see that she liked the extra kick that came with each crunchy bite.

Delivering Crunch

Being raised on fried chicken, I prefer mine to still be on the bone. For this meal, I stuck with the Two Piece Dark Meat Dinner. It also includes two sides and in true Saturday evening fashion, I got the beans and slaw. While this seems like a smaller serving than Crystal’s, I also ordered three wings to go. The true test of fried chicken is how it tastes cold and Gus’s has met that standard on every visit. Each spicy bite reminded me of those long-ago family dinners.

Satisfied Customers

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken has risen to the top of our chicken choices for dining out. We’ve found them to be consistent and thorough with each visit. Each bite is flavor-packed and the two of us can always find something we enjoy. After all, isn’t that what dining out is supposed to be about? While we skipped dessert on this visit, it is not unusual for us to grab a slice of their Pecan Pie and Coconut Pie. Even these are delivering crunch, while keeping it sweet. If you see us eating chicken, we’re probably at Gus’s.

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Taking It To The Hole – Prehistoric Putt

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 16:00:00 +0000

When we heard that Kansas City has a new mini-golf destination, we couldn’t wait to check it out. Crystal and I have long enjoyed a fun round of miniature golf. Prehistoric Putt, located at 13907 E. US Hwy 40 in Independence, is filled with some challenges that are unlike any we have seen before. We had to use some new skills when taking it to the hole. Fortunately, we had some company during this visit, so we all learned from each other’s mistakes.

Pick Your Poison

Prehistoric Putt has 3 courses, each with their own unique design elements. Crystal was the one who first heard of this place, so we let her choose our direction. The Red Course includes a chance to zip-line and she had been waiting for that. We grabbed our clubs and golf balls and headed to the course. Our visit took place during Spring Break, so the place was flush with visitors. No problem for us, as this gave us an opportunity to scope out each of the challenges that lied ahead.

Game Time

The people who designed the course added plenty of fun elements. One hole required putting through a Foosball table, while the others in the group attempted to stop the ball. These actions elicited some laughs, as we watched the grandkids try their first shot at Foosball. Later we came to a hole that requires some Pinball skills. Depending on your ability (or luck) the ball shoots out of one of the holes leading toward its final destination.

Taking It To The Hole

About halfway through the course we landed at the Zip-line hole. Here players can choose to putt like normal, but what fun is there in that? Instead, we took turns zipping along the course as we plunged toward the hole. The goal is to release the ball at the perfect moment to get it to roll into the cup. Let’s just say none of us had a hole-in-one. That’s okay, because we all had a good time.

Celebrataion Time

After completing our round, we decided to head off for a victory round of ice cream. There’s no better way to celebrate a job well done than with some creamy delights. As we ate our ice cream, we reminisced about the fun we had. It was decided that a return visit would be needed to challenge the other course, but that would have to wait for another day. For now, we were happy with our results of taking it to the hole.

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Life in the Trenches – National World War 1 Museum

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:45:17 +0000

The National World War 1 Museum and Memorial is not a memorial to the war. This national treasure is a reminder of the human spirit and the never-ending fight for peace. Life in the trenches was filled with short periods of sheer terror followed by long spans of boredom. Stretching across the horizon, these muddy, rat-infested trenches offered defense from shrapnel and snipers. When Union General Sherman noted that “War is Hell”, he probably hadn’t imagined it on a global scale. A visit to this top 25 U.S. museum serves as a reminder to all of the fight to preserve peace, liberty, and the reduction of human suffering.

A Monument To The Human Spirit

“The War to End All Wars” was one of the deadliest conflicts in history. Allied forces clashed with the Central Powers in a real-life game of Risk. The five years of turmoil left the countryside scarred, and families broken. It did not however extinguish the human spirit. The good in mankind rose above all of this to help heal a world that had been dark for so many days. The same year that WWI ended, Kansas City leaders came together with a plan to construct a lasting memorial to those who served.

By 1921, a site had been selected, and 100,000 people gathered for the dedication. Within five years, the memorial would be built, and an even larger crowd would be on hand for its opening. The museum served the city, and its visitors, for many years. By 1994, the museum was closed due to structural concerns. A plan was made to revitalize, as well as expand the site, so that it could better showcase the growing collections of artifacts. During this period, it was given the distinction of being proclaimed the nation’s official World War 1 Museum. When it reopened in 2006, the completely redesigned space had become a showcase. Its 217-foot-tall tower, topped with an eternal flame, stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.

Life In The Trenches

World War 1 was a battle fought in the trenches. Long series of dugouts were constructed across the fields, and the battle of small gains was waged. The trenches were designed to slow the advance of the enemy, while offering some protection from artillery and snipers. These man-made troughs were often reinforced with wooden beams and sandbags, as well as guarded with barbed wire. Flooding was a concern, as well as infestation by various pests. Life in the trenches was difficult, and soldiers would often rotate through them in stays of up to two weeks. It is estimated that if all of the trenches dug out during the war were laid end to end, they would total over 25,000 miles long. Be sure to check out the viewing holes to see soldiers in the trenches.

Rise and Fall of an Empire

As we made our way through the museum, we learned all about life in the trenches. Information is presented in an easy to understand approach. Don’t forget to ask staff members to help shed additional light on the exhibits. Be sure to interact with them during your visit. They are a wealth of information and everyone we met was so helpful and informative. Tours are available for those interested, and short films highlight key events of the war. Additional displays show the political, social, and economical impacts that rippled through Europe. The end of WWI would offer temporary relief and a short time to heal. Our planet would once again be plunged into another world war in just three decades. (You can read about the WWII Museum here.)

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F325 BBQ Brings Their “A” Game

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:30:48 +0000

Opening a new barbecue in Kansas City is always risky business. With over 100 competitors already churning away, you’ll find yourself in an uphill battle. It’s like competing in the American Royal BBQ Contest every day. When a friend clued us in on a newcomer in North Kansas City, we just had to test it out. F325 BBQ sits just off Burlington & Armour at 1825 Buchanan St. Our first visit was a trial run and the results demanded an immediate return. With our appetites in full bloom, we descended on this new hot spot to check out their “A” game.

New Player in Town

This new player is tucked away off the main drag but it hasn’t prevented people from finding them. Like they say, “Good news travels fast.” Our day had already been filled with repeat performances. Checking out the revamped Truman Library had filled our morning. Feeling lucky, we pushed it and also made a return to the National WWI Museum. Now we were starving and ready to chow down on some smoky goodness. We had chatted with owner James Huey on our first visit and could feel his passion for bringing his BBQ pit to life.

The Secrets Out!

On any given day, diners can sample BBQ from a multitude of Kansas City restaurants. The majority carry on the KC tradition of low and slow cooking. The dry rubs work their magic, as smoky dry heat fills the pit. There are twists and turns introduced by each in one way or another. F325 BBQ brings theirs through a Carolina-style sauce served up with some delectable meaty choices. A variety of tasty sides lets the owners showcase their creativity. A packed house proves that in just six months the news about their delicacies has spread.

Balanced Plates

The menu at F325 BBQ is extensive but our test run had already helped us with our decision. Ordering a two-meat and a three-meat plate meant that we could sample five of their options, as well as adding four sides. They also toss in a mini-cornbread muffin on each plate. Crystal’s 2-meat pulled in brisket and pulled pork into our dinner equation. Here was a good chance to sample the sauces. The standard sauce has the vinegar-based tang found in North Carolina barbecue.

Meaty Goodness

My 3-meat was filled with ribs, burnt ends, and turkey. All brought a rich smoky flavor but I surprisingly found the turkey to be my favorite. It was so juicy that I just couldn’t stop nibbling. I’m sure I probably ate more than my half. Our server asked if we’d like to tempt the spicy version and we did so with reservation. Neither of us are huge fans of heat and this thick pasty concoction had plenty to offer. Before long, we’d both found our favorites and settled in for the long haul.

To keep from getting the “meat shakes”, we dove into the amazing side dishes. F325 BBQ has found a way to add a twist to each. From their sweet and smoky Baked Beans to the tangy spinach-artichoke sauce on the Mac & Cheese. Their Coleslaw has the added bite of Granny Smith apples that helps create a sweet and sour rollercoaster of flavors. There was one side dish that seemed more fitting for a dessert menu. The Whiskey Sweet Potato Casserole brings layers of taste and texture in each mouthful. Looks like we wouldn’t need an ice cream run after this visit.

F325 BBQ Brings Their “A” Game

The true test of any barbecue joint requires time. The bane of many pitmasters has been consistency. Our visits to F325 BBQ took place about a week apart but the flavor was just as good both times. It looks like James is on his way to great success as a Kansas City restauranteur. Time will be the real judge but we will certainly be dropping in at times to see how things advance. We’re pretty sure that he’s got the right attitude and heart to become another Kansas City legend. It’s great living in a city that inspires such devotion in each new generation.

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The Truman Museum-The Buck Stops Here

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 00:58:15 +0000

A historic Independence, Missouri visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Harry S. Truman Library & Museum. Growing up in Kansas City, we were well aware of Truman’s ties to the area but had not really studied much about the man. Since the Truman Library had recently completed an overhaul, we felt it was the perfect time to learn more about our 33rd president. A sunny Spring day was the setting for our visit and we were excited to see the recognizable statue of Harry welcoming us.

Truman Museum – Design for the Masses

It had been a few years since our last visit but we could immediately see the changes. The Truman Museum has added more audio-visual exhibits. This helps draw visitors into the story of this man from Missouri. As we progressed through the museum, we found the films to be informative. Each would add the building blocks of information that create a portrait of Harry S. Truman.

The Early Years

Harry’s early years were spent on farms around the big city’s outskirts. At the age of six, his folks moved to Independence, Missouri. Harry’s mother encouraged him to explore. He began piano lessons at seven and became quite skilled. Harry was also a voracious reader and enjoyed history. His first venture into politics was working as a page at the 1900 Democratic National Convention in Kansas City. Harry graduated high school in 1901 and attended one year of college. While he never gained a college diploma, his one year of business studies would pay off for him later.

Entering Service Life

In 1905, Truman enlisted in the Missouri National Guard. He would serve 6 years in the field artillery regiment. To prevent his poor eyesight from keeping him out of service, Harry memorized the eye chart. When the U.S. entered World War I, Truman would rejoin his artillery division. His time in Europe would teach him new leadership skills. These would prove invaluable with his return to Missouri politics. During his service, he met the nephew of Tom Pendergast, who was a political boss in Kansas City. This connection would help propel Harry into politics.

Taking Office in Difficult Times

Truman’s political career included serving as a Jackson County judge, before setting his sights higher. With Pendergast’s assistance, Harry won a U.S. Senate seat in 1934. Having lived through The Great Depression, Truman found himself a champion against Wall Street greed. The Truman Library was filling our minds with a ton of historical information we must have missed in school. When President Roosevelt decided to seek a fourth term, his advisers knew his health was a concern. They knew there was a high probability that he would not survive another four years. Truman was selected to be his running mate, as he was seen as an asset to the Democratic Party. Truman had been vice president for 82 days when Roosevelt died. On April 12, 1945, Truman was sworn into office.

The War in Europe

After the funeral of FDR, Truman set to work reassuring the country of victory in the war. On a side note, on April 18th Truman officially declared the first Mother’s Day, to show “gratitude, love, and devotion” for mothers. The next section of the Truman Museum explains the circumstances that faced Truman after he was sworn in. The country was in the waning years of World War II. By May, the war in Europe had ended, and it was time to begin the reduction of troops. Japan was issued a directive to surrender but refused. Expectations are that the war in the Asian Theater could drag out another year, and cost many more lives. Truman made the difficult decision to use the newly tested nuclear weapons. On August 6th, and 9th, the United States dropped atomic bombs on Japan. The war with Japan ended on August 15th, 1945.

Post War Fears

After the war, Americans were fearful of a return to the depression that had gripped the country prior to the war. Instead, the economy boomed as pent-up consumer spending boomed. The Marshall Plan was put in place to help Europe recover economically, but the political atmosphere was continuing to change. Communism had taken a foothold and was spreading across the continent. This set the stage for the development of the Cold War. In America, old problems were once again rising to the surface. The year was 1948, and Harry Truman was facing re-election. Besides facing a Republican-controlled Congress, his support of Civil rights had created a rift in his own Democratic Party.

A Political Upset

Truman’s humble beginnings manifested in his belief in fairness for all. With the election only months away, Truman was not about to shirk from his beliefs. The spring of 1948 brought increased turmoil to the Middle East. When Israel became a state, on May 14th, President Truman was quick to recognize it formally. Truman’s second term was marked by an increase in unrest in Asia. The Soviets had developed their own nuclear program, and China was in the midst of change, after the fall of Mao Tse-tung. The Korean peninsula would be the site of the next armed action, as the conflict increased. The United States, under Truman, would enter the Korean War, as part of a NATO coalition. He would not oversee the end of the conflict, as he left office in 1952.

Heading Home

In 1952, America was brimming with prosperity. Even with this success, Truman’s approval rating had been declining since the United States entered the Korean War. Throughout the museum, we found the written words of Truman himself. These offered glimpses into the mind of a man who seemed simple from the outside, but in reality, was extremely complex. Even though he left office with a 30% approval rating, history would eventually confirm the importance of his actions during his time in office. For the rest of his years, he dedicated his time to developing his library. He stressed educating youth on the importance of understanding your government and history. These were too important to leave to chance, so he made sure that ” The buck stopped here”.

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Jack Stack Barbecue – A Family Tradition

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 03:30:17 +0000

Let’s time-travel back to 1957. The world was cast into the “Space Race” with the launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite. In America, Jailhouse Rock was climbing the charts, while Elvis purchased Graceland. Frisbees first hit the market and The Music Man opened on Broadway. (You can read our article about the composer here.) While all of these events were taking place, here in Kansas City we were seeing the start of what would become a family tradition. Russ Fiorella launched his barbecue eatery with a modest menu of a few meat options. from this humble beginning, the Jack Stack Barbecue dynasty would grow.

Gourmet BBQ

By the mid-1970s, the barbecue scene in Kansas City had become highly competitive. Jack and his wife, Delores, expanded his menu to include steaks, seafood, and his signature sides to stand out. He switched to Hickory wood for his smoke, which gave his meats their characteristic flavor. fast forward to today, and Jack Stack has become a local chain with six locations. The menu has also expanded and teams with appetizers, sandwiches, full plates, and family-sized platters.

A Family Tradition

For this article, we made a visit to Lee’s Summit location. Even during a mid-afternoon stop, we found the place to be busy. The crowd was filled with families, business gatherings, and couples out for a bite. We fell into the third category but it was obvious that this place draws all ages of diners. The upscale, relaxed vibe makes it easy to slow down and savor the experience. After exploring the menu, we decided that one of the family platters would offer the broadest sampling. With this in mind, we ordered the Roundup.

Meaty Goodness

While we waited for the goods things that were to come, our discussion turned to the volume of food that was soon to descend upon our table. We knew that the possibility of devouring the entire meal was a pipe dream, so we decided just to eat until we were stuffed. When our server delivered the goods, we could hardly wait to dive in. Of course, pictures first, then pleasure. The platter is filled with all types of yummy eats but it’s the meats that we wanted to sample first. The turkey was moist and tender, just like the brisket. The pulled pork flavor popped with the addition of some of their spicy sauce. In between ravenous bites, we tossed in spoonfuls of their creamy Cole Slaw.

Toss in Some Sides

The hits didn’t stop on that end of the platter. Moving along we came to the tender pork ribs. This is the dish I usually fall back on when comparing barbecue joints. Jack Stack Barbecue certainly has theirs down to an art. To balance the weight of all of these meats, they toss in a couple of pots to boot. The baked beans are sweet and rich, which had us coming back for seconds and thirds. Cheesy corn is another fantastic addition and theirs has a nice base without overpowering the corn.

Jack Stack Barbecue

Our visit to Jack Stack Barbecue tested the limits of our stomachs. While we weren’t able to polish off all of the food, we left a significant dent. Towards the end, we found ourselves picking at the scraps, hesitant to leave any of the smoky goodness behind. Finally, the decision was made to waddle away from the table, knowing we had given it a valiant effort. Our experience reminded us of the many unique barbecue flavors scattered around the Kansas City metro. While we have enjoyed some fantastic dishes all around North America, it’s here that our hearts come for barbecue family tradition.

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Kansas City Museum – A Renewed Purpose

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 09:30:22 +0000

For decades, schoolchildren from around the metropolitan region made the annual field trip to the Kansas City Museum. I remember visiting during the time that it focused primarily on our hometown’s history. It also featured hundreds of taxidermized animals in lifelike settings. In 2008, the museum was closed for a complete renovation and repurposing. When we heard it had reopened, we were eager to see the renewed purpose of this Kansas City landmark. Located at 3218 Gladstone Boulevard, this FREE attraction is a good choice for a day of exploring.

Failure Turned Into Success

I have to wonder how many fortunes were started by accident. Such is the case of Robert Alexander Long. Born into a Kentucky farming family, he moved to Columbus, Kansas in 1873. HIs uncle was a banker, who helped underwrite a series of business failures. One of these was a hay bale business he began with two friends. Finally, his uncle suggested he move farther west, so Robert began selling off the failed hay business. When the sheds were disassembled, he found a strong market for the lumber. This business grew quickly and after one of the partners passed away the two remaining formed the Long-Bell Lumber Company. It was in Columbus where Long met Martha Ellen Wilson, who he affectionately referred to as Ella. She was a Pennsylvania Quaker who was a local schoolteacher. Robert courted her for a year, before the two were married in 1876. The couple had a son, who passed shortly after birth. They also had two daughters, Sally and Loula.

Family Ties

In 1891, the family moved to Kansas City, where his business would have access to more avenues for sales. Western growth relied heavily upon moving supplies along rail lines, and Kansas City was a key point along the journey. By the time that the Long family arrived in their new location, their portfolio included more than 50 lumberyards. Soon after, the Long-Bell Lumber Company would become the largest in the world. The family didn’t sit on their profits, and used them to benefit others. Besides funding libraries and schools, Robert was also a force behind construction of Liberty Memorial and the World War I Museum.

Visiting Corinthian Hall

With all of this success, the Longs decided they needed a home that reflected their prominence. Throughout our many visits to the Kansas City Museum, we had never really grasped the true scope of the Long’s endeavor. The home resides on 3 acres of land overlooking the Missouri River. The four-story mansion gets its name from the Corinthian columns that adorn the entryway, as well as some of the smaller buildings on their property. The home was completed in 1910 at a price of a whopping $1,000,000, which made it the most expensive Kansas City home at that time. It would remain the family home until Robert’s passing in 1934.

Moving In

While the majestic scale of this home was lost on a child, as an adult I can appreciate its overwhelming presence. The main house has over 20,000 square-feet of livable space. When we entered the recently refurbished house we were greeted by the familiar grand staircase. The first floor has been redesigned to exhibit the story of Corinthian hall and the Long family. In the past, the family part had been mostly absent from the displays. We like that the staff has decided to share more of the background of one of Kansas City’s notable families. It was surprising to read that when the family took up residence in the home, they found it completely stocked for daily use. Wouldn’t that be a nice way to start life in a new home?

Touring the Home

For decades this majestic building had been home to mineral exhibits and history displays. The hundreds of stuffed animals are nowhere to be seen, as the home has been returned to its original splendor. After their father’s death, the two daughters removed some of the architectural and decorative items for their own homes. Much of the original furniture was sold during an estate auction. In 1939, the sisters donated the property to the Kansas City Museum Association, which repurposed into the history museum that we visited as schoolchildren.

Kansas City History

While our visit to the Kansas City Museum was primarily focused on the home’s original occupants, we couldn’t pass up a visit to the other galleries. Climbing the grand staircase, we made our way to the second floor. This floor has been redesigned to contain the history of Kansas City. It is broken into five galleries with four dedicated to the city’s historical timeline. Since this was our secondary reason for visiting, we will only focus on the earliest portion. This gallery concentrates on the origin of Kansas City and the earliest people who inhabited the lands.

First Inhabitants

If you were to travel back to the late 1600s, you’d discover that the land inhabited primarily by the Osage Nation. They had settled into the river valleys long before any European explorers had set foot in North America. As they migrated westward, they followed the Missouri River to the lands that would one day be Kansas City. The Osage were an impressive people with many adults at or over six-feet tall. The tribe combined hunting and farming to create a well-balanced lifestyle. Spanish and French traders were eager to obtain the pelts in exchange for firearms and other goods. The introduction of horses allowed the Osage to travel farther on hunting trips and raiding parties.

Forced Removal

While the initial interactions focused on trade, the growing number of immigrants led to a clash for the lands of this region. The repeated contact with Europeans also brought new diseases, which took a toll on the tribe’s members. Within a relatively short time, the increased trade altered the lifestyle of the Osage. Metal goods replaced the bone versions that had been tradition for generations. The Louisiana Purchase changed the direction of expansion for the United States. In 1808, the U.S. government negotiated a treaty that allowed the establishment of Fort Osage. It would serve as a trading post for the military and native people. By 1814, the government pressured the Osage to relinquish their ancestral lands and relocate to Kansas and Oklahoma territories.

Kansas City Museum

During our visit, we had a moment to speak with a couple of staff members. They were excited to see the home restored to much of its original grandeur, but told us that there are more plans in the works. The soda fountain, which was extremely popular with kids, will return in the next round of renovations. They also have plans for some of the other buildings on the property and we are sure they will be just as amazing. Seeing this historic property revitalized reminds us that telling a story doesn’t have to become stale. The new direction that the staff has taken the Kansas City Museum ensures that generations of schoolchildren will continue to learn about our city’s march to the future.

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Parlor KC – A Grownup Food Hall

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 09:30:01 +0000

How many times have you faced the seemingly unsurmountable task of choosing what to have for dinner? It would be nice if they put a variety of cuisines in one space, so you could pick and choose your favorite dishes. Well someone was listening to our suggestions and created Parlor KC. This glorified grownup food hall sits in the heart of the Kansas City Crossroads District, at 1707 Locust St. We’ve long considered KC the “melting pot of the Midwest”, so a chef-inspired collaboration of this magnitude seems perfect for our city.

Fun Vibe

Stepping through the front entrance, diners are greeted with a funky, fun vibe. One of the two bars greeted us on this hot summer day. Our visit took place on a Saturday at lunchtime and the place was already hopping. The décor is a mixture of contemporary art with pops of color splashed around the spaces. Groups had congregated for various purposes and the noise level was a little high. This just added to the adrenaline level of the place. We decided to get our bearings and check out all of the spaces, before deciding on our meals.

In or Out

Parlor KC has three levels to explore. The lowest level serves as a mix of den and library. During our visit, it was being used for a demonstration, so we stuck to the other two floors. Seating options are broad and include an outdoor shaded patio. With the KC summer heat level rising, we opted to remain indoors for this visit. We could see this outdoor space being a great spot to enjoy a Happy Hour when this heat wave breaks. It would also serve as a good people-watching spot during First Friday Art Walks.

Decisions?!!!

There are two floors of food options inside Parlor KC. Unless our eyes deceived us, we counted seven cuisine choices. Knowing that we would only be able to pick a couple for this visit, we took our time exploring the various menus. On the first floor, we spotted Ting’s, which serves up Filipino dishes inspired by the chef’s parents. Next door is KC Mac N’ Co where you will find a broad range of creamy, cheesy dishes. Khalia’s Pizzeria owner, Theresa Spencer, has a fondness for Italian Gardens and wanted to bring their cheesy goodness to life in a new setting.

Sliding in Style

None of the first-floor options were sparking our appetites, so we moved up to the second floor. Here we found tacos from Taco Tank, as well as Korean comfort food from Sura Eats. After checking out all of the food options, we decided to pick dishes from two of the vendors. Being from the Midwest, we couldn’t pass up some juicy smashed beef sliders, and the menu board at Slideshow touted some interesting options. We decided to each pick one that struck our fancy. The Steakhouse Slider is topped with arugula, smoked Gouda, A-1 mayo, and fried onions. It was just what a homemade burger should taste like. The Fig & Goat Cheese Slider added some sweet tang to our lunch. It’s topped with fig & onion jam, arugula, truffle mayo, and goat cheese.

Getting Our Cluck On

Our other food hall option was Mother Clucker! I have to admit that the brightly colored signage captured our attention. The backstory on this space is all about Nashville Hot Chicken. Anytime we see a chance to sample some southern comfort food, we are down with it. The chef couple who designed this restaurant saw an overlooked food option in Kansas City and set about rectifying the situation. The chicken comes in a sliding scale of heat, so choose wisely. We grabbed a two-tender combo, which comes with a side (Crinkle Fries for the win!), pickles, and your choice of dipping sauce. With everything assembled, it was time to get down to business.

Parlor KC

It didn’t take long for us to decide that Parlor KC deserves more exploring. With only two of the seven cuisines under our belt, there is still a lot of taste-testing to be done. We like that Kansas City has embraced the food hall idea and expect to see more of this type of establishment. With Strang Hall already bringing in consistent crowds at their Overland Park location, Parlor KC gives us a downtown KCMO option to boot. We have always felt that Kansas City is a leader in dining destinations and now we have one more good option to choose from. Have you ever visited a grownup food hall?

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Backyard Barbecue Vibe – Char Bar

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 13 May 2022 09:15:36 +0000

It feels a little repetitive to mention that we live in a city filled with amazing barbecue restaurants. While we may not have sandy beaches or snow-capped mountains, any given day can bring the smell of grilling meats wafting across the landscape. When we are looking for southern BBQ in Kansas City, we have a few nice options. One that has gained quite the reputation for food and fun is Char Bar, located at 4050 Pennsylvania in Westport. Sporting a retro feel, this “meat-ateria” has found a way to give off a major backyard barbecue vibe.

A Flurry of Activity

Dropping by on a rainy Saturday left us filling only half fulfilled. While the southern eats are always front and center, there is more than dining to be found at Char Bar. In fact, on a warm spring day, it wouldn’t be unusual to see quite a crowd gathered at their urban playground. Laying out along the front side of the restaurant is a huge beer garden that includes picnic tables, firepits, and games. Whether you are in the mood to challenge a friend to a round of bocce ball, cornhole, or ping-pong, you can find it all here. We are more of the “take it all in” crowd, so we just enjoy the sport of people watching.

Toss in a Handful of Retro

While rain may have excluded our outdoor activities, it wasn’t about to dampen our dining experience. This southern-inspired smokehouse has got quite the laundry list of dishes to choose from. While not quite the chef-inspired plates we found in a Quebec City smokehouse, there are some plates that go beyond what we normally find in a KC barbecue joint. We tried to not let them distract us, as our mission on this day was to sample a nice variety of meaty options. Looking around at the retro décor, we started to piece together the finer details. Metal lunch trays reminded us of our school days in the cafeteria. This place was slowly transporting us back in time with its backyard barbecue vibe.

Bring on the ‘Cue

All of this time travel had worked up our appetites, so it was time to get down to business. We decide that the best way to make the most of our visit was to divide and conquer. While there is an assortment of interesting options, I was here for the Smoked Meat. Skipping over all of the other sections of the menu, I landed on the Signature Trays portion. Now I just needed to determine which cuts I wanted to explore. In the end, it was The Holy Trinity that grabbed my attention. With three ribs, some burnt ends, and slices of black Angus brisket, I was in for some delectable dining. The addition of a bowl of Coleslaw, a slice of toast, and some pickles helped add a little extra flavor variety. As soon as they set the tray down, I knew that we were in for some smoky goodness.

Backyard Barbecue Vibe

Crystal chose a plate from the Smokehouse Sandwiches portion of the menu. While she teetered between a couple of choices, she ultimately landed on the Pickled Pig. She’s been on a pulled pork craze, of late, so this came as no surprise to me. Char Bar serves this sammie up with some North Carolina flair by piling a nice serving of creamy slaw right on top of the meat. For a little twist, they use pork butt, instead of shoulder, which some feel brings more meaty flavor to the plate. She added in a helping of their Sweet Potato Fries, which I had to get a picture of quickly before they began disappearing. With the backyard barbecue vibe in high gear, we devoured the dishes laid out before us. Too soon, we found ourselves staring at the emptiness left behind and looking forward to our next visit to Char Bar.

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National Museum of Toys And Miniatures – Releasing My Inner Child

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 09:30:15 +0000

I have to admit that there’s a little kid in me that can come out at the most inopportune moments. To limit the silliness from becoming too rampant, I find it best to shower my inner child with periodic visits to kid-friendly attractions. Kansas City just happens to be home to quite a few of these, so that works out best for keeping me in check. One of our favorites is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, which is located at 5235 Oak Street. It is a special place that we recommend to people every chance we get. I may enter this KC landmark as an adult, but once across the threshold, I will be releasing my inner child.

So Much To See

Even before we begin our exploring, we can already see that there is a lot to explore. Just reading the statistics listed at the entrance is mind-blowing. To think of all the hours required to create these amazing pieces is a reminder of the skill required in this art form. The cover photo for this article is a good example of the incredible detail required to form a believable reproduction. Titled Architect’s Classroom Circa 1900, it is overwhelming trying to take in all of the details. Yet, without all of them, the presentation would be incomplete. This is one of my favorite pieces in the museum.

Getting a Closer Look

To make it easier for visitors to examine the pieces, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures has magnifying glasses for the public to use. I always feel a little like Sherlock Holmes whenever I am in this part of the museum. Moving from one display case to the next, I find myself filled with wonder. Reading the literature, we learned that most pieces are created on a 1:12 scale. The pieces on display include a collection of original designs, as well as reproductions of items made in real size by master artists.

Amazing Details

What really blows my mind are the pieces that draw you farther and farther into the details. This Art Deco Jewelry Store is a prime example of this experience. It’s a recreation of a fine jewelry store that would have been found in metropolitan areas in the 1920s. At first glance, I see the large chandelier that hangs above the display case. Made with 15,800 beads, it is a masterpiece all by itself. As my eyes work down the paneled Rosewood walls, my focus shifts to the couple shopping for that special piece. This beckons me farther into the piece and I find myself examining the intricate pieces inside the jewelry case. The fine points of this handiwork are astonishing.

Rich Reproductions

By now, my senses have become keen and I look for the unusual details. You would think that just taking in the overall unthinkable works would be enough. I am now searching for the minutiae that makes up those “aha” moments. A prime example of this would be the artist’s attention to individual layers of the treats on the table. They even went so far as to give the candles the appearance of being used. I can imagine myself sitting down to afternoon tea at this table, although as a child I would have been prohibited from using this room without adult supervision.

How Do They Do It?

A section of the museum that is always intriguing is In The Artist’s Studio. Here we discover the steps required to create these miniature masterpieces. There are some fun hands-on exhibits that let visitors see just how steady your hand needs to be to complete the intricate work. Crystal and I each took turns placing our hands on a clock and let me tell you it isn’t easy. Along the wall, we found displays that showcase exploded views of miniature furniture pieces. Having seen full-size furniture unassembled, it is amazing how these tiny versions follow the same guidelines.

Learning From the Masters

We also enjoy seeing the short videos that detail some of the crafts required to create the miniatures. I’ll be the first to admit that I am no budding artist, so imagining the difficulty to create these minute versions of classics is impressive. This goes far beyond just having a steady hand, one must also have a keen eye for detail. As we wrapped up our exploring on the first floor of the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, we prepared to head upstairs to check out the toys. Time to put away the magnifying glass and release more of my inner child.

Eyes on the Prize

I would imagine toys have been around, in one form or another, almost since the beginning of time. Even I remember occurrences of playing with rocks, which I used to create towns in a dirt patch. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures walks visitors through some of the histories of the tools that children of all ages use to unlock their imaginations. We began our journey by climbing the staircase, which encircles a rotating display of toys from all time periods. Once upstairs, we began investigating some of the stereoscopic devices that opened a hidden world to the viewer. While these may have been before our time, we can see the amusement that receiving such a piece would bring to a child.

Always Learning

While my history with dollhouses is sparse, I still enjoy seeing the amazing details that are brought to the pieces. As we made our way through their extensive collection, I found that this display really captured my attention. I never realized all of the backgrounds that applied to the creation of the various dolls. It makes sense that the styles of these miniature figurines would mimic the social situations of the times.

Heading Back in Time

For me, toys were an avenue that led to other worlds. Some would find me leading the charge as we storm the beach of some foreign battle. Others would find us hacking our way through a dense jungle, as we became the first explorers to explore unchartered lands. The one constant in all of our playtimes was the use of our imaginations. Armed with this invaluable tool, we could be anything we dreamed of and end up whisked away to places that only existed in our minds.

Childhood Memories

We all had certain toys that evoke fond memories. As we watched a video about this man’s experiences with a paratrooper toy, I was reminded of some of my favorites. An old cap gun was my trusty weapon, as I sought out adventure throughout my childhood neighborhood. When our caps ran out, a verbal “Bang, Bang” was enough to signify an accurate shot. As I grew older, my toys adapted into ones that required more physical dexterity. Hours of flinging frisbees would be rewarded with the occasional scramble to retrieve them from an unexpected destination.

Toy History

When you are a kid, you don’t often wonder about the origin of your toys. There may be the occasion when a toy breaks, and you find yourself disassembling it to check out the details. At the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, you can learn the background of some familiar and common playthings. As a youth, I would have likely bypassed this exhibit, but adulthood has taught me an appreciation for the history of products.

Were We Learning?

Passing through the various galleries, an unexpected realization came to me. All of those hours spent playing may have been the base for learning about how to handle life’s situations. I think back to the summer days when soon after breakfast we stepped out of the house for the day. Often, our only returns would be for lunch and dinner. The balance of time was spent using our imaginations to create new worlds to explore. Each scenario would present problems to be solved, but we only saw them as challenges to be conquered. These aid in developing our problem-solving skills for later in life. Oh my gosh, playtime was really learning time.

Kansas City Connection

We continued to explore the galleries and displays. There are a few sections that exhibit a collection of toys from yesteryear. Seeing this assortment of airplanes, I immediately noticed the hometown connection with Trans World Airlines. This Kansas City-based company was well known to most families in this area, especially during my youth, in the late 1960s. Being a pilot was another popular dream job for kids, back in those days. Most flights would include some daring-do, or at the least, narrowly averted the danger.

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

By the time we wrapped up our visit to the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, my inner child had been fully released. All of those familiar memories were flooding through my brain. I was ready to run to the store and buy a kite, just to see how high I could get it to fly. There are so many stories associated with my childhood toys, that they should really be looked back on as tools of the trade. Even a field of rocks held the possibility of hours of immersive fun. What were some of your favorite toys?

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HomeGrown Kansas City – Local Love

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:30:06 +0000

As I sit writing this article, my mind is wandering back to our table at HomeGrown Kansas City, located at 338 W. 63rd St. in KCMO. This Wichita-based restaurant broke ground in our hometown and has seen amazing success. It may just be their delectable pop tartlets, which are great paired with a cup of coffee. I like to believe it has to do more with their appreciation of local flavors, which they incorporate into their menu. Sure, other restaurants source locally, but this place has made it part of their mantra.

Cultivate Kindness

When we stepped through the door of this Brookside eatery, the sign “Cultivate Kindness” was the first image to greet us. The idea that a local eatery would embrace this simple philosophy is encouraging. The question is whether the employees have accepted it, as well. From our first interactions with the hostess we felt welcomed. The dining spaces are relaxed and contemporary. The décor is simple, yet all suggests a feeling of warmth. Even the patrons looked to be enjoying the casual atmosphere.

Local Love

Once we were seated, we began the fun of exploring the menu. As we perused it, many familiar names ran before our eyes. Meats from Scavuzzo’s brought a feeling of pride to our KCK hearts. There were also references to Messenger Coffee, Shatto Milk, Liberty Fruit, and a dozen other Kansas City suppliers. Even the tables were branded as “Handmade in KC”. The owners of HomeGrown Kansas City definitely know the importance of developing local love.

Make Them Red Velvet

While we munched on our Nutella Pop Tart, our discussion fell to picking our main courses. Crystal has a thing for trying unique pancake offerings. The Red Velvet Pancakes were right up her alley. What was delivered to her was a trio of fluffy flavorful cakes covered with powdered sugar and a cream cheese drizzle. I snuck a bite and it reminded me of the delicious treat that we often expect to be served as dessert. It may not be the lowest calorie way to start the day, but it certainly is an enticing version.

Egg-cellent Start

Our daughter will frequently join us for Sunday brunch, as she did on this day. This gives us a third meal to feature, and also taste. Amanda’s choice was the Turkey & Avocado Benedict. When I was reviewing my photos, I noticed that the design of this dish belies the flavors hidden below. The fresh Hollandaise sauce was picture-perfect, but underneath we discovered layers of tastes. The English muffin base is stacked with roasted turkey breast, poached eggs, and sliced avocado. The side of Rosemary Potatoes added another aroma wafting from her plate.

HomeGrown Kansas City

I chose the simple route and ordered the Croissant French Toast. To be honest, this was a suggestion from the hostess and she didn’t mislead. Served with sliced strawberries and warm maple syrup, this sweet dish really hit the spot. I had our server toss in a side of Scavuzzo’s Thick Cut Bacon to provide some protein to tide me over until later. With our forks flying into action, the three of us munched and chatted. The casual vibe of HomeGrown Kansas City soaked in and we lingered over another cup of Messenger Coffee. We were definitely enjoying all of the local love.

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Tasty Thai – Naree Kitchen

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 10:00:47 +0000

When people mention dining in Kansas City, many will think of barbecue. While it is certainly a popular subject in our hometown, it is far from the only cuisine to be found here. In fact, there are tons of great eats to be found tucked away all over town. Kansas City, Kansas is our neck of the woods and it is filled with a broad spectrum of ethnic cuisine options. We like to think of our city as the “melting pot of the Midwest”. A trip along State Avenue landed us at Naree Kitchen Thai & Sushi where we always find tasty Thai meals.

Local Eats

Naree Kitchen is one of the spots that is hiding in plain sight. Located in a strip mall, it is easy to overlook this stop. That would be a huge mistake since we have found their dishes to be consistently good. For the past year, we have had to resign ourselves with carryout, due to Covid restrictions. Some of this may also have been related to the limited amount of workers. Fortunately, they have reopened their inside dining room. While we still frequented during the restrictions, it is dine-in that we like the most. There is just something special about enjoying the atmosphere of a place.

Let’s Get Started

One of the reasons we like this place so much is its broad range of menu choices. This allows us to enjoy a tapas-style meal where we combine a grouping of small dishes. There are certain tastes that we always fall back on and these help us judge the quality of a restaurant. It’s a must to start with some Crab Rangoon and we have sampled this dish in so many places. Naree Kitchen does a great job with theirs and it makes a nice accompaniment for some sushi. On this visit, we chose the Spicy Shrimp Tempura Roll, which is about as fishy as we ever order. This was a good start to our meal.

Peanuty Protein

Another good appetizer dish is their Chicken Satay. The pounded chicken strips are grilled to perfection and served with a tempting peanut sauce. If we have any issues with this dish, it would be that there just isn’t as much as we would want to eat. Fortunately, there are other dishes to help buffer our disappointment when the chicken is all gone. On this visit, we didn’t order it, but the Calamari is another bite-size option we enjoy. It is served with a sweet and spicy Thai chili sauce that has us coming back for more.

Fried Rice Galore

Crystal and I have become experts at piecing together a meal using a variety of small dishes. Our go-to main course is almost always Chicken Fried Rice. This protein-rich meal provides the filling touch to hold us over until the next mealtime. Naree Kitchen does this dish very well and abundantly. The huge pile of rice was more than we could finish. We like that they have been consistent with the delivery of this item, as too often it can be extremely oily at other restaurants. They also have a good grasp of the proportions of each of the ingredients to make this dish scrumptious.

Tasty Thai

Being empty-nesters means that we find ourselves dining out frequently. It’s nice knowing that we live in a city filled with plenty of options. Naree Kitchen is our KCK stop for sushi and fried rice, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other good options around town. That’s one of the reasons we love living in Kansas City. With so many great dining choices, we know that we can always find a good meal without traveling too far. What are some of your favorite choices for tasty Thai cuisine?

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Shawnee Indian Mission – Hidden Kansas History

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:00:07 +0000

Are there places that you’ve been meaning to visit for years? We faced that same situation right in our backyard. The Shawnee Indian Mission has been a destination we have discussed visiting for quite some time. It seems like some other stop would always push this place to the back burner. We finally said “enough is enough” and planned a stopover at this local historical attraction. Without much research, we arrived with open minds and eager to learn about these indigenous people.

The Shawnee Tribe

We discovered that the first floor of the museum focuses on the Shawnee people. By the 1600s, the Shawnee people occupied the woodlands around Ohio and Pennsylvania. During the summer, they lived a sedentary lifestyle, choosing to raise and tend crops. Fishing and hunting were also an important part of their lives. Their lodging was often bark-covered houses and a village would contain forty to one hundred homes. They are also associated with the creation of earthen mounds, which were part of their religious and social life. Winter would find them breaking into family groups that spent time hunting. The Shawnee share connections with the Kickapoo, and Delaware tribes and established a close friendship with the Wyandot.

Expanding Territory

In 1630, attacks from the Iroquois forced the Shawnee to seek new lands. The various clans scattered to the south and west. It was this action that gained the tribe a reputation as wanderers, which was done out of necessity. As the power of the Iroquois tribe waned, some of the Shawnee clans returned to the Ohio Valley. European traders saw an opportunity for trade and made allies with the native people. As trade expanded, the influx of alcohol created a negative impact on the tribe. The Shawnee were forced to surrender large tracts of land in Ohio, which led to ill will against the Americans. It would be Shawnee Chief Tecumseh who would unite the tribes in a war that culminated with the Battle of Tippecanoe.

Shawnee Indian Mission

It was only about 50 years after America became a nation before a large land grab would swing into full gear. In 1830, President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act. This was designed to vacate native tribes from their ancestral lands and relocate them west of the Mississippi River. The Shawnee were moved to eastern Kansas and tribal leadership requested the US government build a school. The original Methodist mission was constructed in Turner, Kansas. Within a few years, the need for a larger facility led to the construction of the Shawnee Indian Manual Labor Boarding School. It became one of the first boarding schools built on the lands purchased in the Louisiana Purchase.

Just Passing Through

We soaked up more of the lore of the Shawnee people, before moving to the second floor. Here we found spaces designed to showcase other aspects of life in the 1800s. The Kansas City region was a hub for people seeking greener pastures to the west. The Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails all passed through this region. Some of our previous trips, like a visit to Council Grove, had highlighted these famous pathways. The Shawnee Indian Mission has an interactive display designed to educate the public about the difficulties faced by these pioneers. One of the exhibits asks guests to select the items that were considered necessities for the journey west.

Hard Road Ahead

As we explored the exhibits, we thought about what it would have been like to be one of those adventurers. Life in the east would have been fairly normal and filled with the pleasantries and creature comforts expected in a home setting. Now imagine trying to pack all of this up and move it across the rivers, plains, and mountains. It wouldn’t take long before you would find yourself thinning the wagon of unneeded weight. Goodbyes would be difficult as you ejected your family china or that grandfather clock brought from the Old World. This would be just one of the hard decisions made along your journey.

Turmoil in the Heartland

We continued exploring the second-floor exhibits and came to an area focused on a period of great turmoil. Those who were raised in or near the Kansas City region are well aware of the Border War. The time leading up to the Civil War was filled with murderous acts committed in the name of freedom. Some would fight for their right to continue the act of slavery. Others would call on the side of abolition to justify their actions. Many historians feel that the skirmishes and battles along the Kansas-Missouri border added significantly to the atmosphere of war.

Finding Hidden Kansas History

Our visit to the Shawnee Indian museum reminded us that there are still places to discover in our backyard. While we will continue to showcase destinations all around North America, we will also renew our commitment to the Kansas City region. We know that a large number of our readers are locals, who have stuck with us for years. There are not enough words to express our appreciation for your commitment. Please let us know of any sites you’d like to see us visit and we will put them on our “must-see” list. We love exploring new places and sharing the experiences with all of you.

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Fort Osage – Life On The Edge Of The Frontier

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 10:00:28 +0000

Our visit to Fort Osage whisked us back over 200 years to a time when America was much smaller than it is today. Our nation’s freedom had been won in the American Revolution, and we were in the midst of a great expansion. The Louisiana Purchase had allowed the fledgling nation to increase its land holdings by over 800,000 square miles. The reality is that what France had sold them was the right to obtain Native Indian lands by treaty or conquest. By nearly doubling its size, this new country was set on a path of growth.

We want to thank Fort Osage National Historic Landmark for hosting our visit. Rest assured all opinions are our own.

On the Edge of Freedom

It was during the Lewis and Clark Expedition that the land for Fort Osage was first recognized for its value. The bluff on which the fort sits offered a tactical advantage. It was a good 70 feet above the river, which was shallower at this point. The explorers noted this in their journal, as they made their way through the territory. The new government was looking for ways to battle the harmful influence of private traders. The erection of a trading post, also known as a factory, would create a free-trade zone on the edge of the new frontier.

Military Life

We arrived at Fort Osage for their “Fall Muster” event. This historic attraction hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. For this one, we would have an opportunity to learn about fort life in the early 1800s. As we stepped through the gates of the fort, we were transported to a time leading up to the War of 1812. The morning began with the raising of the flag. This was followed by a presentation of arms and a few volleys to grab the attention of visitors.

Playing Their Parts

Once the ceremonies were completed, the staff moved on to their daily routines. We began our exploration of the grounds, as the hammering of the blacksmith rang out in the background. While it was a brisk morning, the weather didn’t appear to dampen the spirits of those in attendance. In fact, the character actors seemed to be quite jovial, as they went about explaining life on the edge of the frontier.

Keeping the Peace

Civilized life along the east coast left some seeking the freedom of the frontier. Joining the military offered a chance to travel west. While the Revolutionary War seemed far ago, the conflict with Britain was not yet over. While America had won its freedom, England was doing what it could to slow the expansion of the new country. Fort Osage had barely began its service to the territory, when it was shuttered in response to the start of the war. In October of 1815, troops would return to the barracks and resume their duties of protecting the peace.

Military Store

While the factory store was intended for use by everyone, the military had their own shop located inside of Fort Osage. This store would have only served soldiers and their families looking to supplement their daily rations. As we perused the stock at this shop, the store-keeper reminded us that we would not have been able to purchase any of the items, seeing how we were not part of the military staff. I suppose we would have had to taken our business to the factory.

Factory Store

While the military store was only for the enlisted, the factory served everyone. Just outside the fort gates we discovered this three story building, which served as a trading post. This self-sufficient store had rooms to accommodate all of the operations needed to run a successful factory. Shelves were loaded with goods that would have been available to purchase. Native Indians would have frequented this factory to exchange pelts for supplies.

Cookies to Share

As we explored the factory building, the aroma of baked goods wafted up from the lower floors. Heading down some stairs, we found ourselves in the kitchen area. Here we discovered staff members in the process of making gingerbread cookies. All of the ingredients would have been readily available during the period the Fort Osage was in use. We watched as one of the ladies formed the dough and cut out rounds for baking beside the fire. It was obvious that even on the edge of the frontier, there were still treats to be found.

The Realities of Frontier Life

Back outside, we found ourselves speaking with the laundress for the fort. Her job would have also included repairs to clothing that would have certainly seen some rugged use. As her kettle heated over the open fire, we discussed the daily chores that would have fallen upon her shoulders. Clearly, this was a vital role for not only the enlisted, but also the civilians who occupied Fort Osage.

A Day at Fort Osage

The bustle of activity continued around the fort. After exploring all of the nooks and crannies, we headed back to the visitors center to check out their museum. Located in the lower section of the center, it holds exhibits focused on the Osage Indians, as well as life along the river. Fort Osage is located in Sibley, Missouri, which is just a short drive east of the Kansas City metropolitan area. With events taking place throughout the year, you’re sure to find the perfect opportunity to learn more about life on the edge of the frontier.

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Missouri Town 1855 – Welcoming Fall

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 09:00:35 +0000

As Autumn descends on the Midwest, people will find an abundance of harvest-themed festivals. Welcoming Fall brings a change in the air, that signals the shortening of daylight hours. We find ourselves trying to savor every moment. Scanning the Kansas City calendar of events, we noticed the annual Fall Festival at Missouri Town 1855. Since we had never visited this particular outdoor venue, this seemed like the perfect destination for our first 2021 autumn excursion.

Frozen in Time

Missouri Town 1855 has a fairly self-explanatory name. The idea was to create a crossroads town that would be common around the start of the Civil War. There was no specific region chosen to be represented, as these types of villages existed all across the country. The buildings at Missouri Town were all brought here from other small towns. Each structure would have a specific purpose during life in 1855. Visitors are encouraged to explore the buildings and interact with the volunteers that inhabit each one. On festival day, the population swells with the excited throng of guests.

Traveling Back in Time

The act of welcoming Fall, at Missouri Town 1855, includes some down-home entertainment. After navigating parking, we made our way onto the grounds. One of the first buildings we came to would have been the residence of the local military leader. While the staff is in the process of refurbishing this structure, the interior is restricted. Instead of tours, they were using the building as a backdrop for an entertainment stage. As the day progressed, a variety of entertainers captivated those passing by with their musical prowess.

Festival Atmosphere

Wandering the grounds, we found that musical entertainment could be found in abundance. Keeping to the time period, we found ourselves being beguiled by unfamiliar sounds. Being country music lovers, we were familiar with the instruments being played. It’s easy to find yourself transported back in time when you are surrounded by the sounds of guitars, banjos, fiddles, and dulcimers.

Living History

Scattered around the grounds, we found an assortment of buildings that held various craftspeople. Each was more than happy to converse with us and the other visitors. They would fill us in on their role in Missouri Town, and how it would have fit into daily life in 1855. This guy was in the process of making wood shingles for roofs. This labor-intensive task would have been imperative for the maintenance of roofs on the buildings.

Farm Life

The layout of the village is easy to navigate, as it follows one main road. We made our way towards the back of the property, where we landed on a small farm. Here they were letting the oxen rest up from a day of heavy labor. Places like Missouri Town 1855 are an excellent opportunity for city dwellers to learn more about life on a farm. It is also a chance to pet a full-size Holstein bull.

Harvest Time

Welcoming Fall includes lots of labor on the farm. While crops are maturing throughout the summer, there is an abundance of harvesting to be done in autumn. At Missouri Town 1855 they grow a small number of various crops, to be used for educational purposes. One of their key crops is sorghum, which is used in the production of molasses. During the Fall Festival, staff members harvest the crop and will usually show some of the steps for making molasses. There are a couple of places in the town that sell this thick sweetener produced by the staff.

Engaging the Public

Visitors can find other opportunities to engage and practice their skills. Harvest season has long been associated with apples. At Missouri Town 1855, this fruit is not overlooked. We spotted one area where apples were being crushed into a mash. A line of kids anxiously awaited their chance to hammer the large wooden pestle into the trough filled with apples. Nearby, staff members were busy creating apple cider with some of the mashed apples. Another group was in the throws of boiling down the mash for some creamy apple butter. The smells of autumn hung in the air.

Welcoming Fall

Not all of the apples would end up being crushed. At a nearby house, we found a volunteer busy with the task of pie-making. She walked through how she did it and then we spent some time just conversing. We discovered that the foods produced during the day are used to feed staff and volunteers. This seemed like a perfect reward for a busy day filled with activity. We can imagine that they have quite a feast when the workday is done.

Holiday Shopping?

Fall festivals have a lot to offer visitors. Besides the educational and engaging activities, there is usually a good selection of vendors. This is the perfect time to do a little early holiday shopping. A large number of the booths were filled with handmade crafts from local artists. This adds a homegrown touch to gifts for friends and family. We also keep an eye open for things that would fit in our own homes.

Wrapping Up a Full Day

With so much activity, as well as some tasty cobblers, we found ourselves tuckered out from our excursion. As we neared the parking lot, we spied the last few exhibits. At this one, the focus was on allowing visitors to learn about the pelts from different animals. Laid out in the midst of the display was the couple’s child. It looks like the day’s activities had worn this tyke out, as well. Time for us to rest up and prepare for more Fall events. We need to make hay while the sun shines since winter will be here sooner than we realize.

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Chef J BBQ – New Kid In Town

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 14 May 2021 09:00:35 +0000

On any given day you are likely to smell the aroma of barbecue in Kansas City. The very fabric of the community is saturated with the intoxicating scent. Breaking the barrier to become a successful BBQ restaurant in this town is no easy feat. Chef J has learned this lesson as the new kid in town. Working out of one of the historic warehouses in the West Bottoms, his days are spent tending a smoker. Moving beyond the traditional First Friday weekend, you will find him serving up delectable dishes every weekend. Chef J BBQ, at 1401 W. 13th Street, is carving out his own stake of ground in the Barbecue Capital of America.

Front and Center

On any given day you can expect to find a line for Chef J BBQ. Word of mouth has spread like wildfire and this new kid in town is facing roaring success. That is an impressive feat in a city known for its barbecue. As we waited our turn, we scoped out the menu. It’s a fairly straightforward approach that has an assortment of tempting sandwich options. Since it was just the two of us, we decided to pass on the large sampler platters. These would certainly be a good choice for gatherings or small crowds. Chef J himself was right up front helping prepare the plates for hungry diners.

Aged to Perfection

The current pandemic seating has the tables spaced out, but we can see the seating availability will increase with time. The decades-old interiors of these West Bottoms warehouses are such a fun setting for businesses. We enjoy the creakiness of the old wooden floors and the industrial vibe found in these spaces. They have made a few necessary improvements to make this place welcoming, but have retained most of the natural appeal of the original condition. Seating is an eclectic mix of tables and chairs, with a few booths to boot.

Scrumptious Sides

For us, it’s hard to think about side dishes, when you are smelling the intoxicating aroma of smoked meats. Chef J dishes up about a half-dozen choices, but we have only sampled about half of them. We went with the Bacon & Blue Potato Salad, which features the slight tang of the underlying blue cheese flavor. Using skin-on new potatoes adds some extra texture to the dish. Our other choice was the Smoked Elotes, which is a cross between cheesy corn and Mexican street corn. It has a pleasing flavor that adds some variety to an otherwise standard side.

A Different Grilled Cheese

There doesn’t seem to be much left to the imagination, with a name like Brisket Grilled Cheese. That’s where we were wrong. Using some of his smoky, tender briskets, Chef J has created a new classic. This panini-style sammie has the makings of a new classic. The meaty addition to a time-tested sandwich kicks this up to adults-version finger food. With plenty of gooey cheese to bind the meat to the bread, we didn’t struggle with pieces trying to escape. Let’s just say that we have sampled some tasty grilled cheese sammies, (Like this one at Summit Grill) but this one really brings a ton of flavor.

Going Beast Mode

We are always looking for some version of a sampler platter when dining at a new restaurant. These offer us a better chance to test the spectrum of flavors that can be found on the menu. While Chef J BBQ serves up some sampler options, they seem to be designed for larger gatherings. What we did discover was the Beast Mode. This sandwich on steroids brings it all to the plate. We are still wondering how they crammed pulled pork, chopped brisket, sliced turkey, and Jalapeno Cheddar sausage into this bun. I suppose the pair of ribs is designed to keep the lid from blowing off. Since we were sharing this monstrosity, we decided to disassemble it and dine directly on the meats. Each one has its own distinct smoky goodness to deliver.

Sweet Treats

By the end of our protein-packed lunch, we found ourselves with a lack of hunger. Fortunately, we had predicted this and decided to forego picking up a dessert when we ordered. It’s good to know that on a less meaty day we could split a slice of pie. I mean, who doesn’t find a slice of peanut butter and chocolate pie to be utterly tempting?

New Kid in Town

You may be able to tell by our photo that we are in a protein-induced food coma. The meaty goodness being served up at Chef J BBQ shows that this new kid in town is making a mark for himself. It is also apparent in the lines of customers who sometimes stretch around the building. The hours at Chef J can vary since they will often sell out and be forced to close up for the day. Do yourself a favor and visit early, so you don’t miss out on any of their delectable options. We are betting that once you try it you too will become a fan.

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Pops Of Color – Tavern In The Village

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 09:00:20 +0000

The end of a workweek is certainly a reason for a celebration. This particular week had been rather brutal, so it was an easy decision to add a Happy Hour event to our Friday evening excursion. We wanted something fresh and new, so plans were set for a visit to Tavern in the Village. Located at 3901 Prairie Lane, it can be found just north of 75th and Mission Road. We had only visited once prior and had been very impressed with their Happy Hour offerings. The food and drink had been tasty and we knew that a follow-up visit would add pops of color that should help kick off the weekend.

Casual Vibe

From the moment we walked in the door, we could feel the casual vibe. The open lounge area is bathed in natural light. Happy Hour participants lingered over drinks and bites as they reveled at the end of another work week. The hostess led us to our table in the main dining section, which is just removed from the bar. Here we found a more intimate atmosphere but we could still pick up the energy from the others around the corner. The strategic placement of artwork adds pops of color to the muted design of this space.

Pops of Color

The overall vibe of the space helped us wind down from the long week. The cooler tones of the restaurant did their job of lowering my blood pressure. This is the type of place that begs you to linger and enjoy a time-out from daily life. When we arrived, we were two of the first ones seated in this section of the restaurant. This allowed me to get some interior photos before they filled up. Before long, more and more would arrive. It was nice having our server to ourselves, even if it was only for a few minutes.

Fast Starters

We barely needed to scan the menu to determine our meal dishes, but it took a moment longer to pick a cocktail. We wanted something that would compliment our food and has pops of color to boot. The Blueberry Cilantro Margarita seemed a good choice to fit the bill. One sip said that we made the right choice. The accent flavors were timid and refused to overpower the main margarita taste, yet they came forward after each sip. To kick off our munch-fest, we chose the Calamari. Not everyone is a fan of this squid-based dish, but it happens to be one of my favorite appetizers. Only recently has Crystal taken a liking to it and that required the addition of a tasty dipping sauce.

A New Nacho

Preplanning our meal makes ordering a lot easier. This is made more convenient when a restaurant posts all of its menus online, which is what we found when visiting the Tavern’s portal. After our server had delivered our cocktail, we actually ordered all of our dishes at once. It definitely makes photos easier and leaves us with a table full of tasty options to devour. The description of the Tavern Chicken Nachos lists the main ingredients but had left out their delivery style. We were expecting a pile of spicy chicken, black beans, and pico de gallo to come smothered in pepper jack cheese sauce. It was a pleasant surprise when they arrived in street taco style. This certainly makes them easy to eat.

Round Two

With the nachos looking like tacos, we were now wondering what disguise the Pulled Pork Tacos would be using. Okay, they looked like tacos, so all was back to normal. Where the chicken nachos had brought a zesty kick of spice to our tastebuds, these tacos were all about the rich tones of the meat. Ample amounts of pulled pork are accompanied by crispy fried onions. A hint of salsa verde and cilantro add accents to this protein-rich dish. Everything was tasting so good that we even devoured the salads that served as garnish.

Highly Successful Outing

We chatted about our weekend plans as we made our way through the meal. We have found a passion for creating a tapas-style meal by combining a variety of appetizers. This is an especially effective approach during Happy Hour visits. It allows us to sample a wider range of the flavors that a restaurant has to offer. Once again, it had proven a successful approach at dinner, as we both felt our hunger subside. The combination of a smooth cocktail, delectable dishes, and a chill vibe had turned this wreck of a week into a winner.

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Spring Forward With An Outdoor Art Walk

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 09:00:10 +0000

For decades, people around the globe have struggled with the ‘Spring Forward’ that occurs each year. While we understand the reasoning behind this daylight saving practice, it doesn’t make the frustration of losing an hour anymore pleasant. Just as we begin to see the dawn appear at a decent hour, we are plunged back into darkness as we make our way to work. Who would expect that a one-hour loss could turn us into sleep-deprived zombies? To help us deal with this annual annoyance, we decided to spring forward with an outdoor art walk.

A Kemper St”art”

A brunch-time event made perfect sense to deal with our lost hour. We began our excursion with a visit to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Kansas City is blessed with two amazing art spaces within walking distance from each other. Since we had never sampled the menu at Café Sebastienne, this seemed like the perfect opportunity. We couldn’t limit our visit to the meal, so we also enjoyed a tour of the current exhibits at the museum. The rotating galleries make this place a new experience with every visit.

The Struggle is Real

We arrived a few minutes before our reserved timed entry, so we decided to take in the outdoor art that dots the museum grounds. With the grogginess of the lost hour subsiding, we were able to focus on the pieces we found. It is easy to draw comparisons to the figures with the current experience we were dealing with. We could easily relate to a ‘head in hands’ moment that accompanies the time change. The guy wrestling with a Pegasus reminded us of the struggles that come with attempting to force ourselves to go to sleep an hour early. Clearly, we were seeing similarities during our spring forward art walk.

Falling to Pieces

After our visit to Kemper Museum, it was time to head over to the second site. Just a short walk away is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. We find that an outdoor stroll through the gardens is a great way to enjoy a warm day. The immense lawn is a favorite of many, and you will find plenty of picnickers and sunbathers enjoying the wide-open spaces. Scattered throughout the property are a large number of statues, including this piece by Judith Shea.

Familiar Sights

Most people associate the shuttlecocks as a symbol of Kansas City art. They appear on posters, t-shirts, greeting cards, and just about every other type of souvenir. The familiarity of these pieces had us thinking that Rodin must have been contemplating time change when he created his most recognizable sculpture.

Don’t Lose Your Heads

As we made our way around the main buildings, we happened upon this collection of standing figures. Our assumption was they were also feeling a little adrift from the lost hour and assembled outdoors to gather their bearings from the sun. This midday excursion was working its magic as we were finally able to spring forward during our art walk. The unseasonably warm weather had drawn many others out and everyone seemed to be soaking up the sunshine that had been so rare over the past few weeks.

Spring Forward with an Outdoor Art Walk

With our internal clocks adjusted, it was time for us to wrap up our outdoor adventure. We know that there will still be a few days that are not favorable for outdoor activities, but the promise of spring has us hopeful. The warmer days are just around the corner and we look forward to many more excursions around our hometown. We hope you will find an opportunity to follow in our footsteps and enjoy your own artistic expedition.

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Losing Their Voice – Kemper Museum Of Contemporary Art

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 09:00:07 +0000

Kansas City is filled with so many entertainment options that we struggle trying to cover them all. When our daughter suggested a brunch outing, I decided to look for something out of the ordinary. Since we are all lovers of art, a visit to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art was a perfect fit. This free attraction offers amazing rotating galleries, as well as an exceptional indoor eatery. At the time of our visit, the list of exhibits included one focused on the Native Indians losing their voice in the modern world. This intrigued us, since we are fans of North American history and enjoy learning about our country’s earliest residents.

Café Sebastienne

Our visit was late on a Sunday morning, so brunch was a perfect choice. Our daughter had sampled meals from Café Sebastienne in the past, but this would be our first experience. With the rules of COVID in place, we were required to plan a timed visit. While it sounds a little restrictive, in reality, it is fairly simple. You can schedule online, by selecting the starting time of your visit. Then you check-in when you arrive, and that’s it. Our first stop was the restaurant, which has spaced out the tables to provide appropriate social distancing.

…But First

We don’t eat at every museum we visit, but from what we had heard, this was one not to be missed. After ordering our meals, we found a table. In short order, the server delivered our array of dishes. Crystal and Amanda each ordered the Biscuits & Lamb Chorizo Gravy. The addition of roasted potatoes, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon makes it a huge amount of food. I snuck a bite of the biscuit, which has a delightfully airy texture. My serving of French Toast included a side of crispy bacon, as well as a trio of toppings. It was hard to decide whether the maple syrup, Cara Cara orange marmalade, or Maple Ice Cream ended up being the best accompaniment. We finished our meal with a serving of Sweet Potato Whoopie Pie, which had an added crunch of fried hominy bits.

Rotating Exhibits

Once our hunger had been satiated, it was time to explore the spaces. The Kemper offers up six galleries that each showcase 8 to 12 exhibits per year. This means that each visit is a little different from the last. They also have a permanent collection that includes the works of artists featuring a global perspective of modern art. While the Kemper Museum is much smaller than its neighbor, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, both are in close proximity to each other. This means that they make a good dual museum outing.

Relatively Speaking

The main exhibit, during our visit, was a feature by Minneapolis artist Dyani White Hawk. Her Lakota ancestry gives her an interesting perspective of Native Indian culture. Many of her pieces are created with a mixture of Native and non-Native education systems. She uses her art to highlight the issues faced by Indigenous people throughout North America. Her pieces often use subtle patterns and textures, which reflect the shapes of art created by Native Lakota women.

Carry Series

Dyani has moved beyond the canvas to create a series of mixed media pieces. Her Carry series highlights the disparity shown to native Indian women as they continue losing their voice as artists. Usually, the pieces created by these women are considered crafts, instead of being seen for their artistic value. The Carry grouping is comprised of a series of copper vessels and ladles. Each is artfully decorated with buckskin, and amazing beadwork. It is hard to imagine someone not seeing the artistic beauty in these pieces, which mimic vessels that have been created for generations.

Losing Their Voice

In a separate hall, they host the series titled I Am Your Relative, which is Hawk’s newest body of work. A mixture of photographs and audio-visual pieces are used to highlight a concerning trend with Native languages. Before colonialism spread to the New World, there was an estimated 300 different languages spoken by native peoples. The arrival of Europeans not only included the forced removal from their lands, but the demand of the use of the English language. Today there are only about 167 indigenous languages still being used. If this trend of Native tribes losing their voice continues, it has been estimated that by 2050 only about 20 will remain. This is just one example of how the perspective of Native Indian women has changed over time.

Changing Perspectives

Dyani hopes that by using her artwork as a platform, she can shed light on the disparity faced by Native American women. In the past, these women would have been highly respected and often shared in the decision-making responsibilities for the tribes. Fast forward to today, and Native American women are more likely to be assaulted than any other demographic. In fact, it is estimated that 84% of Native American women have experienced violence. Much of this came from non-tribal members. While this change shows a dangerous trend, it is often overlooked by mainstream media. Americans as a whole can often be so absorbed in their own little worlds, that we neglect to recognize the plight of others.

Stop, Look, and Listen

Exhibits, like this gallery by Hawk, remind us that we must be diligent about the perils faced by others. Recently, our state elected one of the two Native American women who sit in the House of Representatives. We hope that this is a sign that Americans are beginning to realize the need to improve the circumstances faced by Native tribes. This particular exhibit will run through mid-May, at the Kemper Museum. It’s a powerful display that should be experienced by all ages. In fact, Kemper Museum helps families enjoy their visit by offering a monthly scavenger hunt for the kids. Now that we know about this, we will need to plan an outing with our grandchildren.

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Fan Favorites – Sushi Karma

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:00:31 +0000

It’s hard to remember how many times we have been floored at the idea of businesses launching at the height of the pandemic. We understand that once a ball gets rolling, you just have to see it through. Still, the idea of beginning during such an unstable market has to be frightening. When we spotted activity at an old haunt, we were anxious to see what would transpire. Low and behold, the old Chinese buffet was replaced with a shiny new eatery that is serving up some fan favorites. We were anxious to sample the menu at Sushi Karma.

Clean Lines

The new digs at 5820 Johnson Drive are a great fit for Sushi Karma. We could still picture the previous condition that had befallen the past tenant. You can imagine our surprise to find a shiny new interior filled with clean lines and modern styling. In the upper dining room, a long sushi bar dominated the view. Good lighting and an inviting atmosphere welcomed us in. The hostess escorted us to a booth in the lower dining room where we found a few other diners.

Happy Hour

Since our recent trend has been focused on Happy Hour visits, we saw no reason to break from it on this stop. During our research, we found that Sushi Karma has a robust happy hour menu. We easily found a handful of dishes that would make a perfect tapas-style meal. If you’ve read any of our Asian cuisine articles, then you know we aren’t true sushi connoisseurs. Fortunately, there were plenty of options that fit our style.

Fan Favorites

We chose three of the sushi rolls, which each come with eight pieces. These included; California Roll, Avocado Roll, and a Crunchy Karma Roll.This provided a nice variety of flavors. Crystal spotted the Pork Dumplings, which are a fan favorite of hers. You can order them steamed or fried at Sushi Karma. We also included an order of Crab Rangoon and a bottle of Hot Sake. With a table full of finger foods, we dug into our happy hour meal.

Finger Food

Since Crystal had ordered her dumplings, I decided to select one of my favorites, as well. The Crispy Chicken Wings are served with a delightful sweet & sour sauce. When they labeled them as crispy, they weren’t kidding. These had a perfect texture to the skin and hot, steamy meat on the inside. By the time we wrapped up all of these dishes, we were feeling pretty satisfied.

Sweet Ending

Just to make sure we didn’t leave any room in our bellies, a serving of Mango Sticky Rice was tossed in at the end. This sweet treat has a texture that was reminiscent of a well-made tapioca, but just a bit firmer. The fresh mango slices complemented the dish which seemed to feature coconut flavor. Quite an intriguing, and addictive taste. Each bite brought us closer to determining the exact flavors, at least until the dish was empty.

New Mission Destination

We are always looking to identify favorites in each sector of the metro. Locating Sushi Karma helped us nail down another great Asian cuisine option in an area we frequent. While this visit focused on their Happy Hour menu, we still took a look at their other offerings. We spotted over a dozen traditional Laotian meals and a nice variety of other Asian-style dishes. Our future is sure to contain a sampling of their curry or pho. With a wide range on their menu, we will have to make lots of visits to really explore their flavors. Oh well, it’s a sacrifice we are more than happy to make.

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All Is Right – Va Bene Italian Eatery

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 10:00:42 +0000

It saddens us when we hear about a local business having to shutter its doors. Unfortunately, this was an all too common occurrence in 2020. On a positive note, there were many new enterprises willing to take a risk during those uncertain times. One that evidently felt it best to let 2020 pass by is Va Bene Italian Eatery, at 8232 Mission Road. Their solution was to launch their business on New Year’s Day of 2021. With a renewed hope for brighter days, it is fitting that their name loosely translates to “All Is Right”. We love their positivity and are hoping they are on to something.

Positive People

Our decision to visit Va Bene was as close to spur of the moment as we get. With the week burning by quickly, I was looking forward to our Friday date night. My days had been starting early in the office, so it was perfect for a Happy Hour celebration. Doing a scan of social media, I spotted a new restaurant that was getting a lot of buzz. That’s just what the doctor ordered, so I verified with Crystal and we had our date set. The space was familiar to us from past visits to the previous restaurant. It didn’t take long for us to meet new acquaintances at a nearby table. Like us, they were loving the vibe of this new Italian eatery and feeling that all is right, at least for this evening.

Happy Hour Sips

Since it was Happy Hour, it seemed fitting to sample one of the cocktails. Our server was kind enough to point out one that I knew we would like. The Tito Lito is a delicious combination of Tito’s Vodka that has been infused with house-made Limoncello and fresh lemons. A sugar-coated rim adds a touch of sweetness to this distinctly tart drink.

St. Louis memories

When we do a Happy Hour, it usually ends up being a fusion between their special menu and the regular meal options. There was one dish that we spotted on the Happy Hour that we had to sample. The Toasted Ravioli made us think back to our time in St. Louis. After all, toasted ravioli was invented in that Midwestern city and has since become embedded in their various cuisines. While we have tasted a barbecue-infused version, the traditional style at Va Bene was very tasty.

Our Kind of Pie

With our appetites whetted, we knew that we needed something more substantial for our next course. With a menu filled with plates of pasta, sandwiches, and grilled entrees we chose one of our favorite Italian dishes, pizza. Oh, this was no ordinary pizza, this was a Fig & Prosciutto Pie. A savory base of pancetta cream, the roasted figs, and prosciutto all blend to add their own distinct flavors. The spicy kick of arugula pairs with the sweetness of the balsamic glaze to notch up the uniqueness of this dish. I wasn’t sure about the flavor combination at first but became a true believer after a couple of bites.

All Is Right

Our inaugural visit to Va Bene Italian Eatery was a glowing success. The interesting flavors were the kind that reminds us why we love exploring. Kansas City is filled with so many great pizza joints, but it’s nice to find one that has plenty of other choices. The idea that a start-up would choose to launch in the heart of a pandemic shows the drive of the human spirit. They certainly chose the right name, because we are positive that all is right at Va Bene. We can picture many more Happy Hour visits in our future.

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Breaking The BBQ Barrier – Q39 BBQ

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:00:31 +0000

Breaking the BBQ barrier in Kansas City isn’t easy. On any given day, the smoky aroma of barbecue permeates the very fabric of the city. It isn’t reserved just for game days or the Fourth of July. Barbecue is the lifeblood of the city. The idea of launching a new restaurant in this atmosphere can be more than unnerving. So many have come and gone, while there are the standards that have stood the test of time. Every once in a while, new blood will rise up and challenge the hierarchy for a chance to join this elusive club. We traveled to Midtown to check out Q39, which has made quite a splash on the BBQ scene since they first opened in 2014.

Old-school Feel

Visiting q39 during the pandemic is a little different. Our last stop had been in the period where everything was restricted to carryout. While it offered us a taste of their menu, it left us desiring a peek inside. When the time was right to return to indoor seating, we were more than ready. The continued restrictions mean that they can serve fewer dine-in patrons, so we made sure to reserve a seat well in advance. The interior has that old-school feel like the place had been here for decades. We liked the mix of tables, booths, and high-tops, which allowed each group a choice of comfort level. They even have some outdoor patio seating available during seasonable weather.

Bringing the Handhelds

Since our last tasting, we had been awaiting this opportunity. With no time to waste, we dove headfirst into the menu by ordering up a bowl of Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine. (pictured at the top of the article) Ever since our visit to Quebec City, we have fallen in love with this comfort food. This hearty dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy is kicked to another notch with the addition of chopped brisket chunks and BBQ sauce. Yeah, we already knew we would be waddling out of this joint. What goes well with this type of finger food, why a sandwich of course.

When I mentioned our upcoming visit to coworkers, one told me a story about his favorite handheld. The Mr. Burns is a stacked missile of flavor aimed right at your taste buds. The combination of burnt ends chunks, pepper jack cheese, onion straws, and chipotle bbq sauce are barely contained in the toasted bun. Let me tell you that this creation makes sharing difficult. With the height restrictions of our mouths well below the altitude of this sammie, we had quite a time attempting to shove it down our gullets. In the end, we definitely found ourselves licking our fingers in blissful satisfaction.

Tempting Sides

There are a few ways of breaking the bbq barrier. The obvious has to do with the main courses, but attention to delivering special side dishes goes a long way in helping. Barbecue has a long history of being accompanied by certain sides. The idea of visiting a barbecue restaurant and not finding baked beans or potato salad is nearly unimaginable. Coleslaw is another staple, but like the first two, they leave plenty of room for variations. Q39 chooses to deliver up an Apple Slaw that brings a distinct sweetness to the palate. We thought that the Orzo Pasta Salad was another nice twist. A nice texture was accentuated by the addition of oven-roasted tomatoes, spinach, and peppers, as well as a delicate basil vinaigrette.

Major Meatiness

One of our favorite things to find on a menu is some type of sampler plate. We discovered a meaty feast during a visit to a BBQ joint in Lee’s Summit, and since then have been on the lookout for others. Q39 offers a couple of options with a Combo Plate (2 types of meat) or our choice of the Judge’s Plate. There are five meat choices and our picks were the Chipotle Sausage, Pulled Pork, and Q Pork Spare Ribs. For those with a meatier appetite, you can bump it up with an extra rib, or some pork belly. Since we were already skirting with a food coma, we left it be with the standard serving. The smoky goodness of their meats shows that their recipes are tried and tested on the bbq circuit. Every scrumptious bite was a melody to our taste buds.

Sweet Endings

Now you can imagine just how full we were by the end of our meal. When our server asked about dessert, we can only imagine the look of sheer desperation in our eyes. We knew that it would be hard to say we had really explored the menu at Q39 without sampling their sweet offerings. A couple that jumped out at us was the Carrot Cake (my personal favorite) and the Turtle Cheesecake. The first was a delightfully moist cake topped with a creamy frosting. The pecan pieces added a nice crunch. Our second selection was a flavor-packed treat with a chocolate crumb crust and blended drizzle of caramel and milk chocolate. Yeah, we were definitely stuffed to the gills.

Breaking the BBQ Barrier

Like so many of the successful newer barbecue joints, Q39 is driven by the force of a leader tested on the barbecue circuit. Owner Rob Magee followed this same path, assembling a crack team named Munchin’ Hogs. Putting his culinary trained background to work, his team would climb the circuit and amass many victories over the next ten years. Transferring the lessons learned during competition can be just as challenging as satisfying picky judges. From the rave reviews we have seen, as well as our personal experience, we believe that it has been a huge success. Breaking the BBQ barrier may be difficult, but Q39 is proving that it isn’t impossible.

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