In the heart of Kansas City, there’s a special place that honors the heroes of World War I. It’s called the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and it’s more than just a museum – it’s a symbol of unity and remembrance. But what factors led to Kansas City’s selection for this project, which held such significant importance for the entire nation?
Understanding why Kansas City rose to meet that challenge requires recalling the city’s conditions a century ago. In the early 1900s, Kansas City experienced economic prosperity, characterized by a thriving community of entrepreneurs and a growing middle class. Its motto, “Make Kansas City a good place to live in,” reflected the city’s aspirations. Influential civic leaders such as J.C. Nichols, the Armour family, the Kemper family, and R.A. Long spearheaded initiatives like the Liberty Memorial Project, aiming to enhance the city’s quality of life while capitalizing on economic opportunities. With a booming agricultural sector and its emergence as a pivotal shipping and railroad transportation hub, Kansas City was poised for growth and development.
Soon after World War I ended, Kansas City leaders formed the Liberty Memorial Association (LMA) to create a lasting monument to the men and women who had served in the war. In 1919, the LMA and citizens of Kansas City raised more than $2.5 million in just 10 days. The equivalent of more than $40 million today, this staggering accomplishment reflected the passion of public sentiment for the Great War that had dramatically changed the world.
Local city organizers held a national architecture competition, and in 1921 the land was dedicated. It was chosen for symbolic reasons: to be across the street from Union Station. During the Great War, Union Station became a central location for soldiers passing through for training and then shipping off overseas. Men enlisted, women entered the labor force, heartland-grown corn and grain were sent to feed troops abroad. Kansas City’s garment district cranked out long johns for soldiers.
During this dedication, something amazing happened. The five top military leaders from the countries that fought together in World War I all met there. Imagine that – leaders from different parts of the world, who had been on the same side during the war, coming together in one place.
These leaders were big names, like Marshal Ferdinand Foch from France, Admiral David Beatty from the UK, General Armando Diaz from Italy, General John J. Pershing from the United States, and General William Birdwood from Australia. They represented their nations at the highest level during the war. Their meeting at the National WWI Museum and Memorial was a big deal as more than 100,000 people gathered to see the supreme Allied commanders dedicate the site of the Liberty Memorial. This was the first time in history these five leaders were together in one place.
Construction on the classical Egyptian Revival-style monument was completed in 1926 and the Liberty Memorial was dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge in front of more than 150,000 people.
Today, the museum stands as a tribute to the fallen soldiers and the importance of remembering history. When you visit, you can see artifacts from the war and learn about what life was like back then. It’s a way to honor the past and make sure we don’t forget the sacrifices that were made.
So, the next time you’re in downtown Kansas City, take a trip to the National WWI Museum and Memorial. It’s not just a museum – it’s a place where history comes alive, and where we can all learn from the past.