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Independence, Missouri

Population: 112,301
Located in Jackson County

Independence City, Missouri

Independence is rich in history. It is known as the “Queen City of Trails,” because of its contributions to the development of the West. Three major trails, Santa Fe; California and Oregon trails all passed through Independence making the city a trading post for pioneers. Fast forwarding to modern times, Independence was the beloved home of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president.

Whatever your lifestyle, Independence has something for everyone! The city offers a wide range of residential options –from historic neighborhoods to new suburban subdivisions. Independence is a full-service community within the Kansas City metro area known for its Midwestern values and sophisticated city amenities in a smart suburban setting. Award winning school districts offer some of the finest educational opportunities in the state and are proud to provide a competitive workforce for future business and economic development.

Seven unique eateries, seven antique shops and plenty of charming boutiques and curios shops line the historic streets of Independence Square.

1859 Jail, Marshal's Home & Museum, This two-story 1859 Jackson County Jail, with its barred windows, double iron doors and leg chains, once housed Frank James, Jesse James notorious brother. Visitors are amazed to learn how James was treated like a hero and showered with gifts throughout his incarceration. Four feet away rises the back wall of the federalist-style marshal's house which was home for county marshals until the early 1930s. Special exhibits such as a collection of confiscated handmade weapons are available.

Horse-drawn covered wagon rides are available for pre-reserved groups. Travel 1850s style through the downtown historic district and re-discover the city where the country's three major westward trails began and America's most surprising President called home.

Established in 1866, the Independence School District has a long history of accomplishments. The district was "Accredited with Distinction" by the Missouri Department of Education, making Independence the largest district in the state to have this designation.

Truman and William Chrisman High Schools are A+ schools, providing students who meet certain criteria with free education at community colleges. Three schools have been select as National Blue Ribbon winners.

Known for innovative programs, the district has received local, state and national recognition, too. It has been the subject of ABC, NBC and Time magazine features on the 21st Century child care program, which has become a national model for before and after-school care for school-age children and full daycare for three- and four-year-olds. Yale University recently named the program one of ten national demonstration sites for the second time. And, Independence was cited by Working Mother magazine as one of the best locations in the country for employment due to the availability of this program.

A 1998 bond issue air conditioned schools, added media and early childhood centers in elementary buildings, provided major additions at the high schools and built Pioneer Ridge Sixth Grade Center near the George Caleb Bingham Seventh Grade Center, which opened in the fall of 1998.

The Community Education program serves about 3,600 people enrolling in more than 190 classes ranging from vocation education to crafts. For this program the district was recognized as one of the 135 best Community Schools in America by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.

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