Bess Truman's Birthplace, Independence Travel Guide

4 (9)

Discover the humble beginnings of First Lady Bess Truman at her birthplace in Independence, Missouri.

Home
Travel Guides
Missouri
Independence
Bess Truman's Birthplace

Visit the house where Elizabeth Virginia Wallace, later known as Bess Truman, the wife of President Harry S. Truman, was born in 1885. Though she only lived there for two years, this historical site marks the beginning of her remarkable life journey in Independence, Missouri.

A brief summary to Bess Truman's Birthplace

117 W Ruby Ave, Independence, Missouri, 64050, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bess Truman's Birthplace.

Combine your visit with other Truman-related sites in Independence, such as the Truman Home and the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum.
Check out the historical marker for a quick overview of Bess Truman's connection to the house.
Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Vaile Mansion

Historical Marker 1832

Harry S Truman National Historic Site

Noland House

1859 Jail Museum

Explore Bess Truman's Birthplace on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bess Truman's Birthplace, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Bess Truman's Birthplace is located at 117 W Ruby Ave in a residential area of Independence, MO. If you are already in the downtown Independence area, such as near the Harry S Truman National Historic Site Visitor Center, walking is a viable option. From the Visitor Center, walk west on Truman Road, then turn left onto S Main St. Walk south to W Ruby Ave and turn right. The Birthplace will be on your left. The walk is about 0.4 miles and should take approximately 8 minutes.
Public Transport

While fixed bus routes have been replaced by the IRIS on-demand transit service in Independence , IRIS can be used to reach the Birthplace. Use the IRIS mobile app to request a ride to 117 W Ruby Ave. The IRIS service operates Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. A ride costs $5 per person.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxi and ride-sharing services like zTrip and AAA Taxi are available in Independence. From a central location like the Independence Transit Center, a taxi or ride-share to Bess Truman's Birthplace would be a short trip, costing approximately $10-$15. Confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

Discover more about Bess Truman's Birthplace

The Bess Truman Birthplace in Independence, Missouri, offers a glimpse into the early life of Elizabeth Virginia Wallace, who would later become First Lady of the United States. Born on February 13, 1885, Bess spent her first two years in this house. While her time at 117 W Ruby Ave was brief, Independence remained her lifelong home, and where she met and eventually married Harry S. Truman.Bess came from a prominent family in Independence; her maternal grandfather was a successful businessman, and her father was involved in local politics. Bess was known as a tomboy in her youth and was very athletic. After graduating high school, she attended finishing school. Her life took a turn when her father died, and she took on the responsibility of caring for her family.Bess and Harry's paths crossed early in life, attending the same Sunday school and high school. Their courtship began later, after Harry returned to Independence. Bess was a supportive partner throughout Harry's political career, offering counsel and reviewing speeches. As First Lady, she maintained a private persona but remained an influential advisor to her husband. The house is marked by a historical marker.