Travel Back in Time: Shawnee Town 1929

Shawnee Town

11501 W. 57th St.

Shawnee, KS

www.ShawneeTown.org

913.248.2360

Hot Tips

• You can take self-guided tours of the museum grounds March through October, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 4:30.
• Admission is charged.
• The Visitor’s Gift Shop and Exhibit is open year-round from 9:00 to 5:00, Monday through Friday.
• The museum is closed on public holidays recognized by the City of Shawnee.

If you’re ready to change up the summer routine of heading to the pool, consider a visit to Shawnee Town, 1929. The museum includes more than a dozen buildings and many authentic pieces, all of which bring history to life.

Before You Go

Check the museum’s website before you make your visit. The museum has several special events throughout the year. A visit is always enjoyable, but these special events are the best times to visit if you’d like more hands-on activities to make history come alive. Because your visit will include walking between different buildings, be sure to dress for the weather.

While You’re There

You’ll begin your visit in the Visitor’s Center Gift Shop and Exhibit. If you’re the first visitors of the day, the staff will be happy to open the buildings for you. Step back in time by visiting a bank, church, school, dry goods store and more. Ask your children where they’d like to visit first and be sure to check out the recent addition of the truck farm. The 1920s outhouse is sure to be a conversation starter. Did your children notice there were no computers? Bring a notebook and jot down questions that come up as you tour the town.

When You Get Home

Now is the time to answer those questions from your visit. You might not have all the answers, but unlike the people of 1929, you have the Internet. Better yet, talk to a family member or friend who remembers life from that time. Perhaps you’re even lucky enough to have family photos from that period. To continue to time travel in the Kansas City area, visit our feature, "The Little House Project in Kansas City." There you’ll find your guide to life in the mid-19th century. Also be sure to revisit Shawnee Town, 1929 to see the expanding exhibits. Happy time traveling!

Elizabeth Welter lives in Olathe and enjoys visiting Kansas City’s many museums with her family.