As we wrap up our series on Kansas City, we have to feature a post on the National World War I Museum and Memorial; this beautiful structure and Museum has been recognized by Congress as the nation’s official World War I Museum and designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Shortly after World War I concluded, a group of leaders in Kansas City formed the Liberty Memorial Association and sought to commemorate a lasting memorial to those who had served in the war. In 1919, money was raised by this group to start construction on that memorial, and in 1921, the site of the memorial was dedicated by five supreme Allied commanders. Once construction was complete in 1926, the Liberty Memorial was dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge.
In 1994, after concerns over safety and the deterioration of the Liberty Memorial, it was closed. However, in 1998, Kansas Citians gathered together yet again to raise funds for restoration and to build a space for the showcasing of various World War I items that had been collected. The World War I Museum opened in 2006. In 2014, the Museum and Liberty Memorial were officially recognized as the National World War I Museum & Memorial.
The most prominent features of the Memorial are the 268-foot tall Liberty Memorial Tower, four 40-foot tall Guardian Spirits that sit atop the Tower, two Assyrian Sphinxes, Memory Hall, and Exhibit Hall. Each piece of the Memorial have special significance, honoring the fallen from World War I. You can learn more about that here. The museum itself is a great way to learn about World War I, with exhibits that feature life-size trenches, a Renault FT-17 tank, and a crater that allows the visitor to see the destruction incurred from a 17-inch howitzer shell.
Planning Your Visit: The Memorial grounds are available to visitors to walk through at no charge. The Museum does have an admission fee; it includes a 2-day pass that comes with access to all galleries, and a visit to the top of the Liberty Memorial Tower over two consecutive days. Prices vary based on age. Museum hours vary seasonally, but regular hours the Museum is open are Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00AM to 5:00PM although be aware that some exhibits close early. Parking is available on the south side of the Memorial in the U-shaped drive, or at visitor’s parking on the west side of the Memorial. If you’re up for the hike, there is also street parking available on Pershing Street.
Seeing the World War I Memorial was definitely on our list of things to do while in Kansas City. The Liberty Memorial Tower is an iconic piece of Kansas City skyline and it is steeped in history. There is an aura of sacredness, humility, and reverence on the grounds and as you walk the campus, thinking about those who gave their lives; what a beautiful way to commemorate the sacrifices that were made.
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