Independence Historical Museum & Art Center

Admission/Hours/About

Museum Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Housed in the historic 1912 Federal Building-Post Office built in 1912, the museum and art center is home to numerous artifacts, art works, and histories about 19th Century life on the prairie and the thriving city that grew out of what was once called "Haytown."

Over 25 rooms of exhibits tell stories of the early settlers’ lifestyle, timeline of the oil industry, area Native American culture, and various other histories.  Displays are located on all levels of the building. 

Specialty rooms include an authentic 1869 log cabin constructed on site, a working jail, a sports room with Mickey Mantle memorabilia, a display about Miss Able, the first monkey in space, and much more.

Artwork from the 19th to the 21st centuries adorn the gallery and hallway walls. The spacious gallery is the venue for art shows, musical events, and public meetings. Annual activities include art exhibits and workshops, an arts and craft fair, a spring tea, and the popular singer and songwriter’s showcase, Meadowlark Lounge.