Harry S. Truman is recognized by historians, authors, world leaders and citizens across the country as one of the greatest American presidents ever. During your Independence visit in Missouri's Fifth District, you can learn about the life behind this incredible man. A failed farmer and haberdasher, a memorable military career and a hometown boy with middle-America ideas and ethics, Harry Truman was Independence. And Independence IS Harry Truman. Walk through his neighborhood, stop into the soda fountain on historic Independence Square where he had his first job, and see the sites where this international leader met his wife, went to school, had an occasional glass of whiskey and played penny-stakes poker. Don't miss the Truman Presidential Museum & Library, Truman Home and the little known but very surprising Truman Courtroom and Office. It's all in historic Independence, MO.
Truman Presidential Museum & Library
Experience the eventful and triumphant life of America's 33rd President. Permanent museum attractions include Harry S. Truman: The Presidential Years, an exhibit featuring two decision theaters, audio and video programs and artifacts to engage visitors in the issues and events surrounding the Truman Presidency. Harry S. Truman: His Life and Times, focuses on his pre and post presidency and includes 10 audio visual stations and a children's area. The museum also offers a replica of the Oval Office, an Academy Award winning film by Charles Guggenheim and a gift shop.
500 W. Highway 24, 816-268-8200
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 a.m. Mon.-Sat.; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Thurs.; Noon-5 p.m. Sun., closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day
Cost: $7 adults, $5 seniors, $3 ages 6-18, under 6 free www.trumanlibrary.org
The Truman Home
The Truman Home, located at 219 N. Delaware, offers a glimpse at the personal life of the 33rd President of the US. Beautiful in its uncluttered commonness, the Truman Home showcases the simple life Truman and his beloved Bess enjoyed in Independence before and after his presidency. Tours run every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets must be purchased at the Truman Home Ticket Center on the day of the tour. No advance reservations. Groups are limited to 8 people. Visitors also enjoy a visit to the Truman Home Ticket Center with free audio visual show depicting the President's life and the interior of his stately home. www.nps.gov/hstr
Open: Memorial Day-Labor Day, 7 days/week, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Labor Day-Memorial Day, closed Mondays
Tour of home: 9 a.m.-5 a.m. (8 people every 15 minutes)
$4 adults 17 and older
Truman Home Ticket Center
A visit to the Truman Home Ticket Center is a great way to learn more about the personal life of Independence's favorite son. A free 12 minute audio-visual show, rotating exhibits and bookstore make this a popular stop for visitors.
Main & Truman Road (223 North Main)
Truman Courthouse & Office
The Independence Square Courthouse, which houses the restored office and courtroom Truman occupied as county judge in 1933, stands at the center of Historic Independence Square. A 35-minute audio-visual show in the courtroom highlights Truman's rise to power.
Independence Square
(816) 252-7454
Open: 10:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tues-Fri
Open by advance reservation for groups.
Admission: $2 adults; $1 students, under 5 free.
Missouri's Fifth District, you can learn about the life behind this incredible man. A failed farmer and haberdasher, a memorable military career and a hometown boy with middle-America ideas and ethics, Harry Truman was Independence. And Independence IS Harry Truman. Walk through his neighborhood, stop into the soda fountain on historic Independence Square where he had his first job, and see the sites where this international leader met his wife, went to school, had an occasional glass of whiskey and played penny-stakes poker. Don't miss the Truman Presidential Museum & Library, Truman Home and the little known but very surprising Truman Courtroom and Office. It's all in historic Independence, MO.
