How Kansas City Became Home To The Nation's Official World War I Memorial

For nearly 100 years, the museum and monument has been known locally as 'The Liberty Memorial.' It's home to one of the largest Great War collections in the world – more than 330,000 items strong. The Main Gallery of the National WWI Museum and Memorial is located beneath the Liberty Memorial Courtyard, and holds the permanent exhibition, “The World War, 1914-1919.”

Through original objects and documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables, the Main Gallery shares a comprehensive history of the First World War with visitors.

"An estimated 100,000 people gathered for the opening celebration of the memorial on November 11, 1926. President Calvin Coolidge arrived by train at Union Station and made a speech dedicating the memorial as the national monument to the Great War."

In 1919, no one considered using tax dollars for the construction. Kansas Citians collectively raised $2.5 million for the project during a 10-day fundraising campaign; even school kids pitched in their nickels.

From Suzanne Hogan at KCUR: "In 2004, Congress designated it the National World War I Museum. Then in 2014, Congress declared it would be America's World War I Memorial. Meanwhile, plans for another National World War I Memorial in Washington D.C. are still in the works.

Last year, the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City had 600,000 visitors from all 50 states and 75 countries."

A cramped, shakey elevator takes people to the top of the tower, but is well worth it for a spectacular view.