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.
1990The National Frontier Trails Museum was created.Original Site of the National Frontier Trails Museum (formally the Waggoner Gates Flour Mill)
The state of Missouri chose Independence MO 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.
- 1999
1991Merrill J. Mattes Research Library was established.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 3,000 volumes, including a significant number of rare and valuable works on Western Americana.
- 1999
2023Relocating to the Truman Memorial BuildingThe museum was relocated to the Truman Memorial Building in Independence, Missouri.
The temporary location at 416 W. Maple Ave offers interpretive displays, meeting rooms, a gift shop, and educational materials on the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails. The museum is free.
- 1999