The Liberty Memorial

The Liberty Memorial, one of Kansas City’s most recognizable landmarks, is the only major memorial in the United States dedicated to World War I. In late 1919, when American spirit was at its peak following “the war to end all wars,” Kansas City decided to honor its war dead with a tremendous parade through downtown, and the event also launched an intense drive to raise money for the memorial. A design contest was held, and locals were encouraged to participate in further fundraising through their organizations, churches, schools, and neighborhoods. Within a week, over two million dollars had been donated to the cause. The winner of the design contest, H. Van Buren Magonigle, created a 200-foot shaft that, in the architect’s words, “represented an altar raised high in the sky, with its flame of inspiration ever burning.” Groundbreaking took place in November 1921, though a political dispute put the project on hold for three years. Construction on the site finally began in 1924. President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Liberty Memorial on Armistice Day, November 11, 1926. Today, after being closed to the public for nearly eight years, the restored structure once again welcomes visitors and stands as a testament to Kansas City’s indomitable spirit.

Kansas City, Missouri · United States