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Joplin History & Mineral Museum: A Journey Through Time

Discover Joplin's mining heritage, historical artifacts, and geological wonders at this unique museum complex.

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Explore Joplin's rich mining history and geological wonders at the Joplin History & Mineral Museum. Discover exhibits on lead and zinc mining, local history, and unique collections like the National Historical Cookie Cutter Museum.

A brief summary to Joplin History & Mineral Museum

Local tips

  • Check out the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs, including books, rocks, and Route 66 items.
  • Visit the Prairie Project Pollinator Mural on the south side of the building for a colorful photo opportunity.
  • Try to lift the chained-down samples of lead ore to experience the weight of the region's mining history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Joplin Public Library, you can walk to the museum. Head south on Main St. At the intersection with 7th St, turn left and walk east until you reach Schifferdecker Ave. Turn right and continue walking south for about 15 minutes, and you will find the Joplin History & Mineral Museum at 504 S Schifferdecker Ave.

  • Public Transport

    MAPS Transit provides curb-to-curb transportation on a pre-scheduled basis within Joplin. Contact MAPS at (417) 626-8607 to schedule a ride. A one-way ride costs twice the normal Fixed Bus Route price. The Sunshine Lamp Trolley has resumed service effective February 2025. Trolley service Monday thru Friday 6:00am-6pm. Trolley services start at the top of every hour from the stop listed on the route schedule.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and City Taxi are available in Joplin. A typical UberX trip in Joplin costs around $14. City Taxi can be reached at 417-623-5577.

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Discover more about Joplin History & Mineral Museum

The Joplin History & Mineral Museum, located in Schifferdecker Park, offers a captivating look into the region's past. The museum is a consolidation of the Dorothea B. Hoover Museum, which focuses on Joplin history, and the Everett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum, showcasing geological specimens from the Missouri–Kansas–Oklahoma Tri-State district. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the area's mining heritage, including the significant production of zinc and lead. The Everett J. Ritchie Tri-State Mineral Museum features a mine shaft-like entrance and displays of Smithsonian-quality mineral specimens. You'll find everything from woolly mammoth fossils to glowing rocks. The Dorothea B. Hoover Historical Museum includes exhibits on Route 66 and Bonnie and Clyde's escapades in Joplin. Other unique collections include the National Historical Cookie Cutter Museum and the Joplin Sports Hall of Fame. Outside, an open-air collection of historical mining equipment complements the indoor exhibits. Inside, don't miss the chained-down samples of lead ore that visitors are invited to try and lift. The museum is committed to inspiring diverse audiences to engage with Joplin and its mining history.

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