On to Kansas City, MO!

From Springfield we traveled the Kansas City Expressway into Kansas City and then to our campground in Merriam, KS.   Merriam is adjacent to Shawnee, KS where we did our grocery shopping, had breakfast etc.   (They had a Hy-Vee store!).  

Our first trip was to Independence, MO to see the Chicago & Alton Depot which was saved from the wrecking ball by HOURS!   The equipment was in place and running when the citizens of Independence rallied and saved the historic depot.   It was moved to another site, renovated over several years, and is now open for tours.   It is unusual in that it is a 2-story depot, with living space above for the station master and his family.   He was on call 24/7; his wife was frequently called upon to provide food for the travelers on the train.   The last train through the depot was in April 1960.  What Jack said would be a "20-30 minute visit" turned into a 1 1/2 hour tour!

From there we went across the parking lot and visited the National Frontier Trails Museum that follows the Oregon, Santa Fe, California and Mormon trails that originated in Independence.   One story that really amazed me, was that of a gentleman who traveled to the gold fields, lost everything, and WALKED over 2500 miles on foot back home.   About 1000 miles from home he happened upon a rocking chair discarded by a wagon heading west and carried it home to his family.

On Monday we drove to the Shoal Creek Living History Museum.   It was established in 1975 with a group of 19th century historic buildings.  Unfortunately all were closed, but it was a great place to walk!   We met three volunteer gardeners sitting in the shade and had a nice visit.    Next stop, Hallmark International Corporate building and their Visitor's Center.