Hidden Ghost Signs Of Kansas City’s Crossroads
Have you ever walked through Kansas City's Crossroads district and noticed faded advertisements on old brick buildings? These ghost signs tell stories of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. Once vibrant and eye-catching, these painted ads now serve as nostalgic reminders of businesses that shaped the local economy. Exploring these hidden gems can feel like stepping back in time, uncovering layers of history that many overlook. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, discovering these ghost signs adds a unique twist to your visit. Ready to learn more about these fascinating relics? Let's dive in!
Discovering the Hidden Ghost Signs of Kansas City's Crossroads
Kansas City's Crossroads district is a treasure trove of history. Among its many secrets are ghost signs—faded advertisements painted on buildings long ago. These signs offer a glimpse into the past, telling stories of businesses that once thrived. Let's explore some of these hidden gems.
1. The Western Auto Sign
The Western Auto sign is a Kansas City icon. Perched atop the Western Auto Building, this neon sign has been a beacon for decades. Though not a ghost sign in the traditional sense, its vintage charm makes it a must-see.
2. The Kansas City Star Building
The Kansas City Star Building boasts several ghost signs. Look closely at the brick walls to find faded advertisements for the newspaper. These signs harken back to a time when print media was king.
3. The Savoy Hotel
The Savoy Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Kansas City, has a ghost sign that reads "Savoy Grill." This sign is a reminder of the hotel's storied past and its once-famous restaurant.
4. The TWA Building
The TWA Building features a ghost sign for Trans World Airlines. This sign is a relic from the golden age of air travel, when TWA was a major player in the industry.
5. The Rieger Hotel
The Rieger Hotel has a ghost sign advertising "Rieger Whiskey." This sign is a nod to the hotel's history as a speakeasy during Prohibition. Today, the building houses a popular restaurant and bar.
6. The Kansas City Bolt & Nut Company
The Kansas City Bolt & Nut Company building has a ghost sign that reads "Bolts & Nuts." This sign is a testament to the city's industrial past and its role in manufacturing.
7. The Midland Building
The Midland Building features a ghost sign for "Midland Flour." This sign is a reminder of the city's agricultural roots and its importance as a grain hub.
8. The Union Station
Union Station has a ghost sign for "Railway Express Agency." This sign is a relic from the days when the station was a bustling hub of train travel and freight.
9. The Firestone Building
The Firestone Building has a ghost sign advertising "Firestone Tires." This sign is a nod to the building's history as a tire shop and service center.
10. The Katz Drug Store
The Katz Drug Store building features a ghost sign for "Katz Drugs." This sign is a reminder of the once-popular drugstore chain that served the community for decades.
11. The Swift & Company Building
The Swift & Company Building has a ghost sign for "Swift's Premium Meats." This sign is a testament to the city's role in the meatpacking industry.
12. The Mutual Musicians Foundation
The Mutual Musicians Foundation building features a ghost sign for "Local 627." This sign is a nod to the building's history as a union hall for African American musicians.
13. The Kansas City Power & Light Building
The Kansas City Power & Light Building has a ghost sign for "KCPL." This sign is a reminder of the city's history of electrification and its role in powering the region.
14. The Livestock Exchange Building
The Livestock Exchange Building features a ghost sign for "Livestock Exchange." This sign is a testament to the city's history as a major livestock trading center.
15. The Folgers Coffee Building
The Folgers Coffee Building has a ghost sign for "Folgers Coffee." This sign is a nod to the building's history as a coffee roasting plant.
16. The Kansas City Club
The Kansas City Club building features a ghost sign for "KC Club." This sign is a reminder of the city's social clubs and their role in community life.
17. The Armour & Company Building
The Armour & Company Building has a ghost sign for "Armour Meats." This sign is a testament to the city's meatpacking industry and its role in feeding the nation.
18. The Coca-Cola Building
The Coca-Cola Building features a ghost sign for "Coca-Cola." This sign is a nod to the building's history as a bottling plant for the iconic beverage.
19. The Pendergast Building
The Pendergast Building has a ghost sign for "Pendergast." This sign is a reminder of the city's political history and the influence of the Pendergast political machine.
20. The Kansas City Southern Railway Building
The Kansas City Southern Railway Building features a ghost sign for "KCS Railway." This sign is a testament to the city's role as a transportation hub.
Kansas City's Hidden Gems
Kansas City's Crossroads district holds a treasure of ghost signs waiting to be discovered. These faded advertisements tell stories of the past, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. Walking through the streets, you can almost hear the whispers of old businesses and bustling markets. Each sign, with its unique design and message, adds character to the neighborhood, making it a living museum.
Exploring these hidden gems not only connects you to Kansas City's heritage but also enriches your experience of the city. Next time you're in the Crossroads, take a moment to look up and appreciate these historical markers. They remind us of the city's evolution and the people who contributed to its growth. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and embark on a journey through time with Kansas City's ghost signs.
