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Discover Harry Truman
"The Man from Independence"
Harry S. Truman, 33rd president of the United States, proudly called Independence, MO, home.
Long before his fascinating presidency—which included the atomic bombing of Japan, the outbreak of the Cold War, and the Korean War—Harry Truman was just a farm boy from Independence.
At six years old, Truman met his future wife at Sunday school here. At 14, he worked his first job on the Historic Independence Square. Later, he got his start in politics at the Jackson County Courthouse.
The qualities that guided Harry Truman—as a farmer, judge, senator, and, eventually, as president of the United States (1945–53)—were instilled in Independence.
Even after his presidency, Truman returned home to Independence, MO, a place he fondly called “the center of the world.”
Today, Harry Truman’s legacy is alive and well. Whether it’s a tour of the Truman Library or a milkshake on the Square, we invite you to explore all the ways to discover Harry Truman in Independence.
“I tried never to forget who I was, where I came from, and where I would go back to.”
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The Truman Library
What to Expect
- Explore the Truman story.
- Get up close and personal with presidential artifacts.
- Learn about your role in our democracy.
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is the premier Truman attraction in Independence, MO.
Among the 14 presidential libraries in the country, the Truman Library is often cited as one of the best.
Following a $30 million renovation—the largest in its history—the library features a brand-new museum experience with updated exhibits and a fresh take on the Truman story.
More Info About Visiting the Truman Library
The Truman Home
What to Expect
- See where the Trumans lived.
- Tours are offered at no cost.
- The home is a short walk from the Independence Square.
The Harry S Truman National Historic Site offers an intimate view of the Truman family’s personal life. The home has been left intact since the passing of Harry Truman’s wife, Bess Truman, in 1982.
Tours of the Truman Home are offered free of charge. However, only eight people are allowed to tour the home at a time. Visitors must secure their tickets at the Truman Home Visitor Center.
The park also includes exhibits inside the nearby Noland Home, where Truman’s cousins lived.
More Info About Visiting the Truman Home
Truman on the Independence Square
What to Expect
- Tour the Historic Truman Courthouse.
- Snap a selfie with the Truman statue.
- Grab a milkshake where Truman had his first job.
The Independence Square will keep you entertained, regardless of the reason for your visit. But there’s plenty ado about Truman, too.
At the center of it all is the Historic Truman Courthouse. This is where Truman got his start in politics. Enjoy a complimentary courthouse tour, provided by the Jackson County Historical Society. Don’t forget to get your photo with Truman outside.
Across the street is the Clinton’s Drug Store building, where Truman had his first job. Today, it’s Clinton’s Soda Fountain, offering an array of sweet treats.
Stop in to the Truman Home Visitor Center for your ticket to tour the Truman Home.
More Info About Visiting the Truman Courthouse
More Info About Visiting Clinton’s Soda Fountain
More Info About Visiting the Independence Square
Other Truman Experiences
Check out these other places to discover former President Harry S. Truman in Independence.
