What is the Historic Kansas City Foundation?
Historic Kansas City Foundation is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to
the preservation of historic buildings and neighborhoods in Greater
Kansas City. through advocacy and programs, the Foundation demonstrates
the proven economic and cultural benefits of historic
preservation. Incorporated in 1974, the Foundation was founded
by a group of citizens concerned with the ongoing demolition of historic
structures within our community. the Foundation’s diverse
membership is comprised of both indivduals and corporations that share a
strong commitment to protecting Greater Kansas City’unique
heritage.
Do you accept old pianos?
No.
Do you have any genealogy records?
No. The National Archives & Records facility, one of the 12 field
branches nationally, maintains genealogy data, diplomatic dispatches,
war documents, and other resources. It is located at 2312 E. Bannister
Road, Kansas City, MO. The phone number is 816-926-6272. The phone
number for the Genealogy section of the Mid-Continent Public Library is 816-252-7228
Where can I find a list of historic wedding locations?
A list of possible wedding locations is in the Resources section of this web site.
Who operates the Foundation?
The Foundation’s Board of Directors meets monthly to set policy
and oversee the organization’s numerous activities. Members of the
board include architects, attorneys, commercial realtors, educators, and
community volunteers, all dedicated to historic preservation.
What are the goals of the Foundation?
- To serve as a public advocate for preservation causes within
Greater Kansas City.
- To inform and educate the public
through programs, walking tours, lectures, seminars, special events, and
printed materials aabout the important benefits of preservation of our
cultural resources.
What has the Foundation accomplished?
Since its incorporation in 1974, Historic Kansas City Foundation has
taken an active role in promoting and serving Greater Kansas
City’s built environment. Some of our accomplishments include:
- Action to rescue structures threatened with demolition such as
the Coates House, bunker Building, Courtney Row Houses, Jack
O’Lantern Ballroom/Westport Ballet Building, President Hotel,
Grand Avenue Methodist Temple, and Longview Farm.
-
Identification and protection programs including historic surveys to
identify and evaluate resources.
- A public policy program which monitors federal, state, and local
legislative issues.
- An active advocacy program that works with government agencies and
developers to integrate preservation into community planning and
development
- Speakers Bureau available to educate students, organizations and
the general public about Kansas City’s heritage.
- Heritage Hikes program that offers guided walking tours of Greater
Kansas City’s historic districts.
- Walking and bus tours open to the public which affords participants
a “live”history lesson.
- Sponsoring special events to crate a higher awareness of the
important benefits of historic preservation. For example, the annual
Fall Homes Tour highlights different historic neighborhoods in an effort
to demonstrate the reinvestment occurring within these
districts.
What do I receive as a member?
In additon to knowing your contribution supports the ongoing educational
programming and advocacy projects of the Foundation, other benefits
include:
-
Subscription to the Foundation’s quarterly newsletter, The
Gazette, which provides local, state, and national preservation news,
resources and activities.
- An invitation to the Annual Meeting held each spring.
- Invitations to special events including “Celebration
Successes.”
- Announcements and invitations to National Preservation Week
events.
- Listing in the Foundation’s email directory to receive news as
the Foundations receives it.
What volunteer opportunities are available to me?
The Foundation is volunteer driven. Each year, hundreds of volunteer
hours are donated towards the Foundation’s efforts. Advocacy,
Fundraising, Membership, Speakers Bureau and Tours are just a few of the
many committees available to interested members. Volunteers are always
welcomed and always appreciated.
How do I become a member?
Our
membership web site page has all the information on how to become a
member.
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FAQs
