Brief History of Independence
Independence, Missouri, holds a significant place in American history, particularly in relation to westward expansion, the Oregon Trail, and the Mormon migration. It stated as a small outpost on the western frontier and grew to be Missouri’s 5th largest city. It is also the county seat of Jackson County and is seeing significant growth in the 2000’s. Here is the brief history of Independence.
Early Settlement
Public Domain
Independence was founded in 1827 and quickly became a bustling frontier town. It served as a point of departure for settlers heading westward on trails like the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails. The city was named after the Declaration of Independence due to its founding coinciding with the nation’s 50th anniversary. It was intended to be a hub for commerce and a gateway to the American West.
Santa Fe Trail
Independence was the starting point of the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico, which was active from 1821 to 1880. The trail played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange between the United States and Mexico.
Oregon Trail
As the western frontier expanded, Independence became a major outfitting point for travelers heading west on the Oregon Trail. Thousands of pioneers embarked on the arduous journey to Oregon and other western territories from Independence during the mid-19th century.
Mormon Settlement and Exodus
Independence holds particular significance in Mormon history. In 1831, Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, declared that Independence was the site of Zion, the future center of the New Jerusalem. Mormons began settling in the area, leading to tensions with other settlers. In 1833, conflicts escalated, resulting in the expulsion of the Mormons from Jackson County, an event known as the Mormon Extermination Order.
Civil War Era
During the American Civil War, Independence was deeply divided, with residents supporting both the Union and the Confederacy. The city was occupied by Confederate troops early in the war but was later taken by Union forces in 1862. The Battle of Independence, fought on October 21-22, 1864, was part of Sterling Price’s Missouri Expedition, a Confederate attempt to capture the state.
Post-Civil War Growth
After the Civil War, Independence experienced significant growth and development. It became the county seat of Jackson County and continued to thrive as a commercial and agricultural center. It became known for its historic downtown area, which preserves many buildings from the 19th century. The town grew rapidly from it’s founding through the Civil War era. In 1900, the population was less than 7,000 residents. It grew to 36,000 by the 1950s, and 123,000 in 2020.
Truman’s Hometown
Perhaps the most famous resident of Independence is Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. Truman was born in nearby Lamar, Missouri, but spent much of his early life in Independence. After his presidency, Truman returned to Independence, where he lived until his death in 1972. Today, the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum commemorates his life and presidency.
Schools
Famous Residents
Forrest “Phog” Allen (Basketball Coach)
George Caleb Bingham (Artist)
James L. Boldridge (Horse Trainer)
Margaret Truman Daniel (First Daughter)
Jim Eisenreich (MLB Player)
EJ Gaines (NFL Player)
Paul Henning (Creator of Beverly Hillbillies)
Chris Pitman (Guns N Roses)
Albert Pujols (MLB Player)
Ginger Rogers (Actress)
Charles E. Spahr (CEO of Standard Oil)
Rick Sutcliffe (MLB Player)
Tech N9ne (Rapper)
Bess Truman (First Lady)
Harry S. Truman (President)
