The enduring legacy of Hiram Young
The story is familiar, replicated by scores of people living and working in Missouri in the 1800s. It goes something like this: a person starts from humble beginnings, takes big risks in moving west to pursue new opportunities, starts simple and builds a trade or business, employs many people, offers essential products or services that make life possible, and in the end not only enjoys success but becomes a benefactor for the common good.
Those stories are common. What is rare is a person who was born into slavery and then did all those things, like Hiram Young.
May 12, 1846
The Donner Party left Independence on this day headed for California. A phony map and bad advice left them stranded in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in winter where they resorted to cannibalism for survival.
1,000 Miles of Missouri’s Most Unique Museums
A Gentle Giantess, a 250-ton boat that flies, and 550 vacuum cleaners
November 25, 1846
Carrie Nation was born. She lived in Belton on a farm in Cass County and in Independence. This ax-swinging temperance advocate was famous for smashing saloons.
Inside the Home Where Ginger Rogers Lived
The actress, dancer, and singer was born in a home in Independence. This year, it went on the market and sold for $111,500.
Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear Release New Album
Independence duo Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear release their most intimate music yet on Started with a Family.
2019 Discover the Best of Missouri Life Awards
You voted. We counted. Now you can discover some best-kept secrets and surprises around the state in eight different categories, such as culture, destinations, food, lore and legend, and more.
The Vaile Mansion is Always a Marvel
There’s no other way to describe the Vaile Mansion during the holiday season. Each year, the Victorian Society—a volunteer group dedicated to the mansion’s preservation—selects a Christmas theme and begins to deck the halls of this historic Second Empire-style home.