History Museum on the Square

Sharing Stories of the Crossroads

As a city at the crossroads of our nation, Springfield, Missouri played a role in many significant events throughout American history. Step back in time, and see these stories come to life through hands-on experiences, world-class exhibits, and activities for all ages. You’ll become part of the story as you ride on our passenger train, encounter a Wild Bill Hickok shootout, and immerse yourself in the Birthplace of Route 66.

The_Crossroads

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    Illuminating Stories of the Past

    The Museum

    Journey through eight interactive galleries to see how Springfield, Missouri and its region shaped American history. Each gallery brings unique stories to life through world-class exhibits designed by Explus and videos and interactives created by Richard Lewis Media Group. Our rich and vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and “voices of history” are combined, using innovative technologies that are fun for all ages. You’re sure to discover something new with every visit.

    Admissions
    Adults $16
    Seniors, Military & Students $13
    Children (4-12) $10
    Children Age 3 & Under FREE
    Group Adult Rate with 10+*
    *3 days’ notice is required
    $13

    For FREE parking location click here

    Welcome Center

    Enjoy interactive displays and stories of the past as you enter.

    Native Crossroads at the Spring

    Explore the Native American experience in and around Springfield.

    Trains, Trolleys, and Transportation

    Take a ride back in time through Springfield’s transportation history.

    Pioneers and Founders at the Crossroads

    Peek into the lives of Springfield’s founding families.

    The Civil War In Springfield

    Discover Springfield’s significant role in the Civil War.

    Wild Bill Hickok and the American West

    Experience America’s first recorded Wild West shoot-out.

    Birthplace of Route 66

    Travel to the place where it all started.

    Voices of History

    Hear more stories of the crossroads in our temporary exhibit gallery.

    Get Your Kicks Where Route 66 Got Its Name

    BIRTHPLACE OF ROUTE 66

    From neon signs to classic cars to drive-ins, Route 66 represents a time in American history that captivates nostalgia lovers everywhere. With one of the largest Route 66 timelines and maps in the country, this gallery is a must-see for any Americana enthusiast.

    Hop into the turquoise blue '57 Chevy Bel Air convertible at the John T. Woodruff Theater and learn about the local man who gave Route 66 its name.

    After that, enjoy your stroll through numerous interactive neon sign exhibits and take photos of your favorite spots along the historic Mother Road.

    • Visit the John T. Woodruff Theater complete with a ’57 Chevy Bel Air convertible, and learn about the man behind the Birthplace of Route 66.
    • See a plethora of interactive neon sign exhibits featuring local Route 66 icons like Red’s Giant Hamburg, Rail Haven motel, Sanders’ Standard Oil gas station and Sunset Drive-in Theatre.
    • Hear the story about John Wilkinson, a local boy who met Elvis Presley at the Shrine Mosque and later became his rhythm guitar player.
    • See a restored Martin & Schwartz Model 80 Series 4B Cyclops gas pump, view stunning Route 66 paintings by artist Jerry L. Rice, and discover more iconic pieces throughout the gallery.
    Route-66-Gas
    Route-66-Wall

    Making History in the Present

    Upcoming Events

    Stay informed of the latest events and traveling exhibits happening in and around the museum. Make memories today and celebrate the past in the present.

    Girl Scout Day: Civics & Citizenship

    04/06/2024 - 01:00 p.m.

    Civics on the Square presents the first Girl Scout Badge Activity Day. All Girl Scout levels join us on a journey through Springfield’s past as we explore civics and citizenship through the years.

    Saturday, April 6, 2024, 1:00 pm-5:00 pm (come and go event)

    It’s not too late to join us on Girl Scout Day! Event admission can be paid at the museum door, Saturday, April 6th.
    Special Scout Program Admission is $13 per scout and leader. (No financial aid or cookie credit can be used.)
    Additional family members will pay general admission to the museum.

    Registered Girl Scouts and leaders can complete various steps in the Democracy and Citizenship badges through fun and interactive activity stations.  Girl Scouts will have the chance to run for office, map local landmarks, register to vote, speak to a city council member, and even be elected President!

    The event is made possible by the Jeannette L. Musgrave Foundation’s Multi-Year Impact Grant for Student Citizenship and support by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.

    Please note – this is not a drop-off event. Parents and troop leaders must stay for the duration of the event to adhere to ratio requirements.

    04/06/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square - History Museum on the Square

    Leading Ladies Luncheon

    04/07/2024 - 01:00 p.m.

    The Leading Ladies Luncheon is a vibrant celebration and insightful discussion dedicated to recognizing and promoting the achievements of professional women in the Springfield area.

    Sunday, April 7, 2024 from 1:00 pm -2:30 pm – Doors Open at 12:30 pm

    Historic Fox Theatre – 157 Park Central Square

    Admission: $20 per person, includes light box lunch, program, and general admission to the museum. Reservations are nonrefundable.

    Leading Ladies Panel includes: Kitty Ledbetter, Diane Homan, Racheal “Dami” Odunewu

    04/07/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 157 Park Central Square - Historic Fox Theatre

    Sensory Friendly Saturdays

    04/13/2024 - 10:00 a.m.

    Event Dates:
    April 13, 2024
    May 11, 2024
    June 8, 2024
    General Admission Applies – No registration is needed.

     

    04/13/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square

    History UnCorked Series- Prohibition Mixology back by popular demand

    04/17/2024 - 06:00 p.m.

    Explore our city’s fascinating history and craft-themed cocktails with expert mixologists, learn the art of wine tasting from seasoned sommeliers, or brush up on beer basics from master brewers. Each event’s unique drink menu perfectly complements the evening’s storyline.

    Wednesday, April 17, 2024 – Prohibition Mixology with Ty leached Da Distillery and 417 cocktails. Program is from 6-8 pm.  Museum admission is included for April 17th in this reservation and the museum will be open until 6:00 pm. The cost is $50 per individual, $85 per pair/twosome. This event will have assigned seating. If you want to sit with a group, please put friends’ names in the Notes section when purchasing tickets. We will try our best but seating is limited.

    You will receive a confirmation email immediately after purchasing your ticket. If you do not receive this email, please call the museum at 417-831-1976 to ensure your transaction was processed.

    Must be 21 or over to participate. Must bring a valid ID to the event.

    History Uncorked is a fundraiser for the History Museum on the Square.  Tickets are non-refundable.

    Sponsored by: 

    04/17/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square - History Museum on the Square

    History Museum Book Club

    04/30/2024 - 07:00 p.m.

    Join the History Museum on their next Historical Fiction read
    In March the History Museum book club discussed Astor: The Rise and Fall of an American Fortune by Anderson Cooper and Katherine Howe.
    We will follow up this discussion in April with our next read: Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty by Anderson Cooper and Katherine Howe.
    We’ll meet on Tuesday, April 30th at 7 pm at the picnic area by the Cherry Picker (601 S Pickwick Ave. Springfield, MO)

    04/30/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: Picnic Area by the Cherry Picker (601 S Pickwick Ave. Springfield, MO)

    Downtown Walking Tour

    05/04/2024 - 10:00 a.m.

    Join us on this one-hour tour in Downtown Springfield, Missouri.
    Explore Springfield’s founding, growth, and most notable history where it took place.
    Learn about the Wild Bill Hickok shootout on the square, Route 66, Trail and Tears and more!

    Tour Dates:

    May 4, 2024 – 10:00 am

    June 1, 2024 – 10:00 am

    July 6, 2024 – 10:00 am

    August 3, 2024 – 10:00 am

    $15 per person for Museum Members & Patrons, $20 per person for Non-Members.

    05/04/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square - History Museum on the Square

    Commercial Street Walking Tour

    05/04/2024 - 10:30 a.m.

    Join the History Museum as we explore the history of Commercial Street!

    Explore Commercial Street with a one-hour walking tour. Learn about the impact of the railroad, the relationship between North and South Springfield, and the society and culture of C-Street.

    This tour is presented in partnership with the Commercial Club of Springfield, MO.

    Tour Dates

    Saturday, May 4, 2024 – 10:30 am

    Saturday, June 1, 2024 – 10:30 am

    Saturday, July 6, 2024 – 10:30 am

    Saturday, August 3, 2024 – 10:30 am

    $15 per person for Museum Members & Patrons, $20 per person for Non-Members

     

    05/04/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: Commercial Street - Meet at Jefferson Avenue Footbridge

    Citizenship Homeschool Activity Day

    05/07/2024 - 09:00 a.m.

    Civics on the Square presents our first Civics Summer Series event. Homeschool families can join us for a fun look at what it means to be an active citizen in your community. We will team up with the League of Women Voters to share hands-on activities that will engage the participants in every part of our democratic process. Activities include elections, flag etiquette, voicing concerns to local leaders, learning about historic documents, and much more! Registration is required for this FREE event. Spots are limited.

    Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

    Doors open at 9 am.

    Activities from 9:30 am – 12 pm. Free museum exploration time 12 – 1 pm.

    Please note – this is not a drop-off event. Parents must stay for the duration of the event.

    This event is FREE but registration is required. Please register by adding your guest count (including the number of adults and children attending) to the cart below.

    05/07/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square - History Museum on the Square

    Citizenship Family Activity Day

    05/11/2024 - 10:00 a.m.

    Civics on the Square presents our first Civics Summer Series event. Families can join us for a fun look at what it means to be an active citizen in your community. We will team up with the League of Women Voters to share hands-on activities that will engage the participants in every part of our democratic process. Activities include elections, flag etiquette, voicing concerns to local leaders, learning about historic documents, and much more! Registration is required for this FREE event. Spots are limited.

    Saturday, May 11, 2024.

    Morning Session from 10 am – 1 pm. Afternoon Session from 1 – 4 pm. Free museum exploration time 10 am – 5 pm.

    Families can register for the morning or afternoon session to participate in a variety of Citizenship activities led by a museum representative and explore the museum.

    Please note – this is not a drop-off event. Parents must stay for the duration of the event.

    This event is FREE but registration is required. Please register by adding your guest count (including the number of adults and children attending) to the cart below.

    05/11/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: 154 Park Central Square - History Museum on the Square

    Queen City Quest Game Show Fundraiser

    05/18/2024 - 05:00 p.m.

    SAVE THE DATE! May 18, 2024 – 5 pm

    Queen City Quest is back better than ever! Check back soon for registration opportunities

    Come on down and turn your gameshow dreams into reality at Queen City Quest!

    05/18/2024
    Host: History Museum
    Location: Historic Fox Theatre

    Truly a Jewel

    Fantastic collaboration of the history of Springfield MO. and the surrounding area. Excellent presentations. Truly a jewel in the queen city’s crown. Interactive stations throughout. A must see.

    Wille E

    Hands down the best Route 66 museum

    Hands down the best Route 66 museum in Missouri and one of the top ten museums on ALL of Route 66! There’s so much to see and interact with while you’re visiting here. There are multiple floors that have a great deal of Springfield history on display. Be sure to try the virtual shoot out!!!…

    Roamin’ Rich

    Quick drop in did not disappoint!

    I had just a few moments after my lunch to stop into the new history museum. First impression: “wow.” They have done an amazing job of utilizing a compact space to relate an amazing amount of information! The exhibits are top notch and first rate—and truly transport the visitor to another place and time! My…

    Jaimie T.

    A definite MUST SEE!

    This place was AWESOME! If you can, sign up for a walking tour!!! Yes, it will cost you extra, but it’s SO worth it if you get Katie. Not sure about other docents, but Katie was just WONDERFUL! Our group learned SO much and really enjoyed ourselves! The museum itself is really great too… I…

    Wanda H.

    Latest News

    Our Stories

    Take a deeper dive into the rich history of the Springfield region and its impact on American history through our stories.

    The Possum Plague of 1929

    It’s September of 1929, and apple harvest season is nearly upon us.  The local orchard owners are sure their yields will be high, but the nearby marsupials have other plans.  Opossums descended on the fruit trees in droves, devouring apples from the ground, baskets, and straight from the branches.  As word began to spread from…

    Read More

    Adah Fulbright: The Heart of Education and Community

    Adah Fulbright was born in 1873 in Springfield. Her ancestors arrived enslaved in Springfield with the white Fulbright family and they built the first log cabin in the area. Fulbright received her secondary education and graduated from the original Lincoln School in 1891. After she graduated from high school, she went on to attend Lincoln…

    Read More

    Illuminating Stories of the Past

    Places To Visit

    The museum is located at the heart of downtown Springfield, Missouri. You’ll find parking and restaurants within walking distance. Our interactive map shows places of rich history in and around the Springfield area, from Civil War sites to the iconic Rail Haven motel on historic Route 66.