The Centennial of World War I's End

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World War I ended on November 11, 1918. Kansas City is the perfect place to honor the story of those who served in the Great War and learn from it.

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To begin your historic tour, start with a visit to the National WWI Museum and Memorial (100 W 26th St. KCMO 816.784.1918), home to one of the greatest collections of World War I artifacts anywhere in the world. Officially designated as the National World War I Museum by the 108th Congress, the facility is the only American museum solely dedicated to preserving the history of World War I. On Saturdays at 11am, History is brought to life in this family‑friendly program in which kids of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts.

Then, head to Independence where you can view “Heroes or Corpses: Captain Truman in WWI” special exhibit at Truman Presidential Library and Museum (500 W. US Hwy 24, Independence, MO. 816.268.8200). Through December 31, visitors to the museum can see a special exhibit telling the captivating story of Harry Truman’s service in the Great War through never-before-exhibited photographs, personal letters and more than 40 artifacts from Truman’s personal World War I collection. World War I helped transform Harry Truman into the man who would one day become one of the most respected presidents in our nation’s history, and this year only, visitors can view this fascinating story in depth at the Truman Library.

In addition to these museums, visitors may also honor local WWI veterans at these memorials:

Rosedale Memorial Arch (35th Street & Booth, KCKS. 913.677.5097) Inspired by Paris' Arc de Triomphe, the Rosedale Memorial Arch was built in 1923 to pay tribute to America's World War I veterans. In 1993, a monument was installed under the Arch to honor World War II, Korea and Vietnam veterans.

Veterans Memorial Park (1025 S. Harrison, Olathe, KS. 913.971.6263) This four-acre park honors the men and women who served America in the Armed Services throughout our country’s history. The park features a walking trail, and memorial bricks, tiles, and benches honoring veterans.

Veterans Park (Center & Pawnee in Gardner, KS. 913.856.7535) The park features a Veteran’s memorial, honoring all American veterans throughout history, as well as park facilities: playground, trail, basketball court, etc.