Kansas City Museum, Kansas City

The Kansas City Museum, located in Kansas City, has a storied history beginning with its origins as the private estate of lumber baron and civic leader Robert A. Long. Constructed in 1910, the mansion, known as Corinthian Hall, is an impressive example of Beaux-Arts architecture designed by local architect Henry F. Hoit. The four-story, 35,000-square-foot mansion, with its distinct Corinthian columns, was originally built as Long's family residence. After Robert Long died in 1934, the estate underwent significant changes as his daughters removed decorative elements and auctioned off remaining items, leaving the mansion devoid of much of its original character.

In 1939, Long's heirs donated the estate to the Kansas City Museum Association, and it opened to the public as a history and science museum in 1940. Financial challenges led to the museum's transfer to the City of Kansas City in 1948. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the museum was a hub for natural history displays, taxidermy, and mineralogical exhibits, featuring dioramas of stuffed animals, a 50-seat planetarium, and a charming 1910-style soda fountain.

By the 1970s, it became clear that the museum needed more space to fulfill its potential, leading to considerations for a new location, including the nearby Union Station. From 2005 to 2013, the museum was managed by Union Station Kansas City, Inc. During this time, the primary buildings, including Corinthian Hall and the carriage house, underwent significant renovations to update roofing, masonry, and other structural elements.

Today, the Kansas City Museum is managed by the City of Kansas City and Missouri's Parks and Recreation Department. The museum remains a significant cultural landmark, reflecting the history of Kansas City while continuing to evolve and serve the community.