Liberty, north of Kansas City, was the scene of the first bank robbery by Jesse James, who was born in nearby Kearney; the bank is now the Jesse James Museum.
The town of Liberty boasts 240 preserved homes and buildings built more than 100 years ago. Self guided walking tours, unique shops and restaurants, three museums, Spring arts festival, and a fall festival make for an interesting visit.
The Charles G Curry Library is home to books and original illustrations from Miss Lois Lenski, a well known writer and illustrator of children's books. In 1906, the private library of Charles Haddon Spurgeon was given to the Curry Library. The Spurgeon collection features the writings of Puritan thinkers, but includes all areas of knowledge. There are many books, which were printed in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Housed in a restored 19th century drugstore, the Clay County museum displays patent medicines, pioneer farm tools, and other artifacts from 19th century farm life. The second floor features a dining room and parlor from the 1880s.
Prophet Joseph Smith and several other Church leaders spent approximately five months awaiting trial in Liberty Jail. The restored jail allows visitors to observe the conditions that the men endured. While incarcerated in Liberty Jail, Joseph Smith received three revelations that are recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants of the Latter Day Saints.
The Jesse James Bank Museum was the site of the first successful daylight bank robbery, committed by the James gang in 1866. The building house Jesse James memorabilia, period furnishings and banking displays.
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