A Declamation of Independence (Missouri)

Independence was founded in 1827. This 1868 map does not show one of Independence's most important topographical features: its proximity to the Missouri River. Library of Congress - Ruger Map Collection

Independence's association with the Trails has earned it the nickname "The Queen City of the Trails." Harry Rogers, publisher (cardcow.com)

Although St. Louis takes much acclaim for being the "Gateway" to the West, Independence actually was more pivotal to families heading West, given that it served as the jumping-off point for the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails. Gary Owens

In a bit of local kitsch, every year Independence closes off its downtown streets to celebrate SantaCaliGon Days (honoring the three trails, while selling various crafts and cotton candy). Gary Owens

Not surprisingly, Harry Truman chose his hometown to be the location for his Presidential Library. Gary Owens

Although Harry Truman was born in Lamar, Missouri, he moved to Independence when he was 6 years old. The home in which he grew up is now a National Historic Site, with regular tours conducted by NPS rangers. Gary Owens

Independence plays an important role in the history of the LDS (Mormon) church and its related denominations, including the Community of Christ, which has its world headquarters here. Gary Owens

The National Frontier Trails Museum contains numerous artifacts from the Westward Expansion era, including treasured items and heirlooms that settlers - many of whom were leaving their homes in the East - had to leave by at trailside. Gary Owens

Across the Street from the National Frontier Trails Museum is this field, which is furrowed with swales from the many Conestoga wagons which departed from Independence. Gary Owens

Independence, Missouri - which derives its name from the Declaration of Independence - is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area and is the 4th largest city in the State of Missouri. It has an eclectic assortment of claims to fame: hometown of Harry S Truman (and home of the Truman Presidential Library); common point of departure for the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails, as well as home to the National Frontier Trails Museum; site of two Civil War battles and related guerrilla warfare; and, outside of Salt Lake City, perhaps the most historically important spiritual site for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and its theological offshoots.