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.
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.
| 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.
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.
Sensory Friendly Saturdays
2023 Windows on the Square – Special Delivery for Santa
History Museum Book Club
Holiday Window Raffle- Special Delivery for Santa
“Special Delivery for Santa” Happy Holidays! This unique Mail Bag has smaller versions of our Holiday window display 2023. This Mail Bag and Friends is valued at $334 and you can have a chance to win this package by purchasing a raffle ticket.
This gift includes the following:
24-inch plush Jolly Santa by Jelly Cats a $114 value
16-inch Plush Toy Reindeer by Hansa a $60 value
(Looks just like our life-sized Route 66 Reindeer “Cruiser”)
17-inch Soft “Cozy Toes” Black Bear by Mary Meyer a $30 value
10-inch Wise Woodland Owl by Jelly Cats a $30 value
$100 History Museum on the Square Family Membership
(good for one year)
A copy of our 2023 Christmas Window Story “Special Delivery
for Santa” is included.
Courtesy of the History Museum on the Square
If you’re not able to visit the museum and want a chance to win, you can purchase them for $5/entry.
The winner will be drawn on Wednesday, December 20th. The winner will need to pick up the gift. It cannot be shipped.
Proceeds from this raffle support our educational programming and hands-on exhibits. The History Museum on the Square is a non-profit organization that depends on contributions to strengthen our community’s future by learning about our past and our culture.
Downtown Walking Tour
These tours will start again in the Spring 2024. If you are interested in scheduling a private tour for your group, call us for details.
Commercial Street Walking Tour
Join the History Museum as we explore the history of Commercial Street!
This tour is presented in partnership with the Commercial Club of Springfield, MO.
These walking tours will start again in the Spring of 2024. If you are interested in scheduling a private tour, call us for details.
Route 66 Bus Tours – Get on the Mother Road!
Tour Dates:
Check back in 2024 for new dates.
Sharing Stories of the Crossroads – Hosted by John Sellars
Join John Sellars, Executive Director Emeritus of the History Museum on the Square and long-time lover of local history, every Tuesday at 4:00 pm on KICK 92.3 FM.
The program will focus on History Bits in Springfield, Local Headlines from a Century ago and a variety of guests to share local history and stories of the past.
Check out the link for past podcasts.
The Route 66 Series – Year 3 Hotel/Motel
The Route 66 Series: Year 3 Hotel/Motel
Thank you Series Sponsor:
O’Reilly Automotive
MSU Libraries – Ozarks Studies Institute
History Museum on the Square is a 501c3 nonprofit organization; all donations are tax-deductible as prescribed by law.
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…
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…
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.
- 154 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806 Map & Directions
- 417-831-1976
- Info@historymuseumonthesquare.org