After existing for a couple decades as a river trading port then briefly being known simply as the town of Kansas, Kansas City added the “City” to its name to avoid confusion with the newly formed territory of Kansas. Kansas City was incorporated as we know it today on this date.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.