Conclusion: Just Passing Through

And now we have arrived at the end of our journey, the end of the tour. The statue in front of you is of Merriwether Lewis and William Clark, along with Sacagawea, and an African American slave named York. They stood here, what is widely regarded as the second best view in the city, on their return from the Pacific Coast. As is noted on the plaque, Lewis thought it would make an excellent location for a fort, given how clearly one could sight the approaches and defend from its heights. 

And there you have it. Two men widely regarded as explorers, pioneers and American heroes, noting the importance of strategic military placements during their otherwise relatively peaceful journey of discovery. With a Native American and a slave at their side, no less. In fairness, they were both military men. Maybe they couldn’t help themselves.

Okay, one more spot to see. Head to greenspace just east of the statue - that’s the opposite direction that Lewis & Clarke are facing - toward the the big building that says “State Street.” and head to the low stone wall. Go right up to it. Walk along it. It’s worth the view.

Like most people in the 19th century, Lewis and Clark were just passing through what would become Kansas City. Coming from somewhere else and on their way to somewhere else. But they changed the place, for those who would pass through themselves and for those who would ultimately stay. They didn’t know that at the time though. How could they? 

At every stage of its history, it’s hard not to feel like Kansas City was just reacting, just changing, never really sure where it was going but determined to get there. Always moving forward, to wherever that was. And the consequences be damned. 

Much like the country as a whole. Again, Mr. Twain would have only sighed and shrugged. 

Go West Young Man. Change this great continent. Take it in whatever direction you please. 

So many of them did. And so many of them, on their journey’s, passed through here. 

Thanks so much for taking this tour of the Library District and Quality Hill. Please consider becoming a member of the Jackson County Historical Society to help continue our legacy of preserving local history.

To get back to the street car, you can walk toward that State Street building. When come to the street, follow the sidewalk right - or south - until you get back to 9th street. Then go left - or east - on 9th street. That will take you all the way back to Main street.

Once there, a street car platform will be just up the block on your right. You can get on and go take two of our other tours - one through Union Station; one through the River Market.

This free audio tour was made possible by the generous support of The Bank of America Trusts & The H&R Block Foundation. The project was led by Kevin Flattery and Joseph White of KLF Development Consulting. This tour was written by Joseph White, narrated by Nathaniel Bozarth, and produced by Christopher Cook of Brainroot Light and Sound.

For more information, visit jchs.org

We hope you enjoyed learning about Kansas City, and this history we all share. Have a great day.