This week marked the official kickoff of stage one construction at the Kansas City Museum. It’s an exceptionally exciting milestone for the Museum, our project team, and the city as a whole. The ceremony included remarks from civic leaders and Museum Foundation Board Members, as well as a special moment during which the honorary chairs of the fundraising initiative and capital campaign, #MakingAMuseumKC signed and placed found objects from the original Corinthian Hall construction. The pieces will be part of a future permanent installation.

The Kansas City Museum, made up of the restored – and soon to be renovated – Corinthian Hall and its surrounding grounds, has long been a cultural asset to its surrounding community. Explained by Kansas City Museum Foundation Board Member, Allen Dillingham, its story began more than 100 years ago with the R.A. Long family. For years, it was a social hub attracting cultural dignitaries and thought leaders. The stunning and forward-thinking destination inspired  visitors and locals alike. With the passing of time, the estate fell idle. However, visionaries like Dr. Mary Davidson recognized its inherent value and ability to unite individuals by communicating a unique and authentically Kansas-City story. After great effort and dedication, which according to Davidson, “[was] not an easy task, but was taken on with great pleasure,” the Museum is on the cusp of a rebirth in conjunction with a sort of cultural renaissance overtaking the entire Northeast area.

Through rich and meaningful collaborations, the Kansas City Museum will pick up and expand upon the story started by the Long family so many years ago. As Mayor Pro Tem Scott Wagner said, it is no longer only a community anchor, but a “city-wide asset,” reflecting the entire metropolitan area and its many and diverse peoples and neighborhoods. Simply put, the Museum will tell a story that is truly Kansas City.

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Contribute to Making a Museum KC here.
Learn more about the Kansas City Museum and read the official press release from Tuesday’s event here.
Read about IAA’s project role here.