The Friends are proud to support the National Frontier Trails Museum and the Merrill J. Mattes Research Library—both devoted to preserving and sharing the rich history of America’s pioneer trails.
The state of Missouri chose Independence, Missouri as the best spot for trails history. The state remodeled this building for $2.6 million dollars. The City of Independence took over operations March 1, 1990. Dan Holt was the first museum director.
The Merrill J. Mattes Research Library is a public resource dedicated to the study of the Overland Trails and the broader history of American Westward expansion and settlement. Established in 1991 by the late Merrill J. Mattes, the library now holds more than 4,000 volumes, including a significant number of rare and valuable works on Western Americana.
The temporary location at 416 W. Maple Ave. the Truman Memorial Building in Independence, Missouri offers interpretive displays, meeting rooms, a gift shop, and educational materials on the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails.
The museum is free. Plan your visit today!