Going for Broke in a Boomtown: Historic Kansas City Businesses

Kansas Citians who seized an opportunity were sometimes able to build empires.  Those willing to take a chance, make quick decisions, determine a public need, or stick to a successful philosophy were able to launch themselves to the top and stand the test of time.  The business climate of Kansas City played a part in the success of these historic businesses.  In the course of the 19^th and 20^th centuries, Kansas City was in turn a river town teaming with western pioneers, a railroad town bustling with new urbanites, and a city crisscrossed by streetcars. 

Five businesses found a niche and enjoyed historic success.  Katz Drugs was a pioneer in advertising and merchandising, as was Richards-Conover Hardware.  Sheffield Steel and Dickey Clay took advantage of their Midwest locations to become manufacturing giants.  And Emery, Bird, Thayer Company, once the heart of Downtown, styled itself into a legend.  Each was able to adapt to changing times and become a household word. 

Explore the histories of these bygone organizations by clicking on a logo. Photographs, postcards, and artifacts in this online exhibit can also be viewed in person in the Special Collections Department of the Kansas City Public Library (3rd Floor, Main library).