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Adair County Historical Society: Preserving Kirksville's Past

Discover Adair County's heritage at the Historical Society Museum in Kirksville, Missouri. Open Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 1-4 p.m.

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The Adair County Historical Society in Kirksville, Missouri, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the county. Housed in a Prairie-style building since 1999, the museum features exhibits on local people, places, and events, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's heritage.

A brief summary to Adair Co Historical Society

Local tips

  • Check out "The Adair Historian," the Society's quarterly magazine, for in-depth stories about Adair County's past.
  • Consider visiting during one of the Society's special events or class reunion receptions to enhance your experience.
  • Explore the museum's three floors of artifacts to fully immerse yourself in the county's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're starting from the center of Kirksville, head south on N Franklin St towards W Brewer St. Continue straight until you reach W Jefferson St. Turn right onto W Jefferson St and walk until you reach S Elson St. Turn left onto S Elson St, and the Adair Co Historical Society will be located at 211 S Elson St on your left. It should take you about 15 minutes to walk there. There is no cost involved in walking to the historical society.

  • Public Transport

    The closest public transport options are the local Kirksville bus routes. Check the local bus schedule for the most up-to-date route information and stops near your starting location. From a bus stop on the route closest to the Adair County Historical Society, walk to 211 S Elson St. Bus fare is typically around $1.00 - $2.00 for a single ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Kirksville, a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber or Lyft, if available in the area) can take you directly to the Adair County Historical Society at 211 S Elson St. A typical short taxi ride within Kirksville will likely cost between $7 and $12, depending on the distance and any surge pricing.

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Discover more about Adair Co Historical Society

The Adair County Historical Society, located in Kirksville, Missouri, has been a cornerstone of local heritage since its establishment in 1916. The society's museum, situated at 211 S Elson St, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of Adair County and its people. The museum is housed in a distinctive Prairie-style building, originally constructed in 1916 as the clubhouse for the Sojourners Club, a local literary and civic organization. The Historical Society acquired the building in 1999, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. Inside, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits showcasing different aspects of Adair County's past. These include displays on military history, rural schools, pioneer life, local businesses, and significant events such as the Battle of Kirksville. The museum also features collections of artifacts, documents, and photographs that bring the county's stories to life. The Adair County Historical Society also publishes a quarterly magazine, "The Adair Historian," which features articles on local history topics. Additionally, the society creates a yearly calendar with historic photos and explanations. The organization is staffed entirely by volunteers and relies on donations and memberships to support its preservation efforts.

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