Early settlers to Liberty, Missouri faced sharp challenges in the 1830s–1860s, many of which are preserved for today’s visitors to explore. History buffs will enjoy an afternoon full of small museums and a historic downtown square with 19th-century architecture that features a vibrant collection of shops and restaurants.
Brought to you in partnership with the City of Liberty.
Stop #1: Clay County Museum & Historical Society
The Clay County Museum & Historical Society features three floors of historical artifacts from all over Clay County from the 1790s to present day, ranging from Native Americans, the Civil War, the Mormon Migration, the history of the founding families of Clay County, and so much more.
You’ll learn about the 1861 Battle of Liberty, and see the 3rd Missouri Infantry Bugle, Spanish American War medals, Civil War rifles, medals and cannon balls, Confederate money, and Tomahawk Peace Pipe.
Admission is free. Learn more about the Museum online at ClayCountyHistoricalSocietyMuseum.org
Stop #2: Historic Liberty Jail
The Historic Liberty Jail is a reconstruction of the Clay County jail where the Prophet Joseph Smith received divine revelations. Missouri authorities imprisoned Joseph Smith and several other Mormon leaders for crimes allegedly committed during the 1838 Mormon War.
Joseph Smith was the first prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and while in jail he wrote many letters, parts of which were later canonized and included in a book of scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants.
The reconstructed jail is housed within a Visitor Center run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and welcomes approximately 40,000 people each year.
Admission is free. Learn more about the Historic Liberty Jail online at ChurchOfJesusChrist.org/learn/locations/liberty-jail
Stop #3: James Country Mercantile
James Country Mercantile is one of the largest sutleries still in existence and has been serving actors and reenactors since 1985, providing 19th century living history items, both original and reproduction.
Visit the Mercantile to view the full line of historically accurate goods, clothing, fabrics, buttons, patterns and artifacts common during the Civil War era.
Learn more about James Country Mercantile in this recent Missouri Life feature at Missourilife.com/time-traveling-tailors
Stop #4: Jesse James Bank Museum
In 1866 the Clay County Savings Association was the site of the nation’s first successful daylight, peacetime bank robbery. While the robbers were never caught, the crime was attributed to the infamous James-Younger Gang who made off with $60,000 and left one young college student dead in their wake.
At the Jesse James Bank Museum, see the original bank safe, protected by 26 inches of limestone to prevent underground theft. Examine period furniture dating back to 1865 and one of the oldest wall clocks in the world, crafted by the Seth Thomas Clock Company.
Admission is $7 for adults; free for children 7 and under. Closed January–February.
Learn more about the Jesse James Bank Museum online at VisitClayMo.com/business/jesse-james-bank-museum.
For more fascinating things to do in Liberty, bookmark VisitLibertyMO.com
