DAY 1: VICTORIAN & BLACK HISTORY
3 DAYS
IND EPEND EN C E
ARTS & CULTURE
ITI N E R A R I E S
6 1827 Log Courthouse
4 Historic Independence Square
DAY 1
Victorian Charm & Black History Independence, MO, is a city with centuries of history. Discover its Victorian past at a meticulously preserved mansion and a unique museum with an unexpected specialty. There’s more to explore at historic sites that honor black history and Independence’s hometown president, Harry S. Truman. 1) Begin your Independence getaway by checking into a local hotel. Options include the Waldo Guest Cottage, a charming and private spot near the Harry S. Truman Home, and the historic and cozy Woodstock Inn Bed & Breakfast, built in the 1890s. 2) Make your way to the Vaile Mansion to take a tour of the magnificent 31-room Victorian estate.
Harvey and Sophia Vaile built their stunning residence in 1881, and ever since, it has been a pillar of the city’s architecture. On the tour, you will learn about Sophia’s untimely passing and stories from the time when the home served as a sanatorium in the early 20th century. Don’t miss the elaborate details throughout the mansion, from intricate ceiling artwork to the nine marble fireplaces and period furnishings. 3) Keep the Victorian vibes rolling at Leila’s Hair Museum. The only museum of its kind in the world, this local gem displays more than 400 wreaths and 2,000 jewelry pieces made from human hair, most of which date back to the 19th century. An Independence staple since 1986, Leila’s is a must-see museum for Victorian-era history buffs. 4) For lunch, grab a gooey grilled cheese and a sundae at Clinton’s Soda Fountain on the Historic Independence Square. Formerly Clinton’s Drug Store—where Truman held his first
1 Harry S. Truman Home job—this authentic soda fountain is a sweet spot to chill out after a morning of exploration. 5) Also on the Square, the Historic Truman Courthouse offers tours of the courtroom where Truman once presided. Find more Truman history at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, one of only 14 presidential libraries in the nation. As you peruse the exhibits, you will learn about Truman’s role in desegregating the US Armed Forces. 6) Continue learning about Independence’s history at the 1827 Log Courthouse, Jackson County’s first government building. Built by Sam Shepard, a slave, this structure operated as the only courthouse between Independence and the Pacific Ocean for 40-plus years. In the 1930s, Truman held court here. 7) Wrap up the day with dinner at Courthouse Exchange, a staple on the Square since 1899. Savor a hearty meal in the below-ground dining room, or get comfortable on the breezy patio during the warmer months. I NDEP ENDEN C E I T I NE R A R I E S | C U LT U R E