Historic Truman Courthouse — Attraction in Independence

Our visit was required as a family member was moving into Jackson County, and we needed register for personal Property taxes.

Upon arrival we walked into a crowded hallway where ~35 customers were awaiting their "time". We were greeted by a less than thrilled receptionist asking our name and what we were there to achieve. The conversation was difficult as we were in a noisy hall, the receptionist was talking quietly through a mask and was not clear on setting expectations, other than "have a seat". The first of two positives of this experience was the text alerts that you receive indicating your status/position in line. You can check your status at any time by sending "s" with a return message that indicates how many people are in front of you. Unfortunately, when I did this the first time, I learned there were 39 people ahead of us. Huh?!?! I did the quick math and figured this could take several hours. Wow! (and it did) I feel terrible for people that try to get this task completed on a workday, over lunch or people with transportation or mobility issues. No warnings, no indications of estimated waiting time...nothing. I was also disappointed in that I called the County twice prior to my visit, in order to make sure I was clear on exactly what I needed to bring, and while the employees were both pleasant and helpful, on neither call did the employee indicate or warn me that there may be long waiting times. Our visit was around the 6th or 7th of the month, so we were not there during typical high traffic times (end/beginning of month). Fortunately, we had the day off, it was around lunchtime and frankly, Independence Square has a lot of restaurants and cool, quirky shops that can fill your time. This was the second positive experience, but I think the credit goes to the City of Independence and its business owners. BTW, the text alert system also allows a little freedom as you are able to check your status and get back to the courthouse when your turn is next (or within 3 or 4). WARNING Arrive knowing that you might likely have to wait a long time for your turn. Plan ahead and know that you will have some time to burn. We were told by one of the shop owners that some days people are turned away as the schedule is already full! Arrive early for better luck. Enjoy Independence Square for lunch and a...

The vicarious incompetency actions by the director of the Recorder of Deeds, Diana Smith who knew or should had known that shutting down access to the Recorder of Deeds during the plumbing issue at the Historic Truman Courthouse (week of 03/06 - 03/10 2023) with no reasonable remedy for someone to pick up their marriage license would cause significant financial and stressful consequences. Complete lack of leadership and common sense. , Long story short, I took our daughter and her fiancé who had an appointment to pick up marriage license 03/06 (mon) after completing the online app the week before when we saw the notice on the door: Closed till 03/08 (wed), ok plenty of time, wedding 03/11 (sat). Now closed 03/09 (thr), 03/10 (fri) and no way to reach a human on the phone as they are all enjoying a week off. Wedding had to be postponed, venue had to be changed, food had to be changed, entertainment changed and moved 2 weeks later, tell me that's practical and not expensive!

After I called numerous times unsuccessfully able to reach any human or receive any direction, I drove again to the historic courthouse to see if there was any updated notes posted on the door or someone with any updates how to get answers. Nothing, no one, nada, zilch, buzzttt (game show wrong answer buzzer sound). Just another note saying closed the rest of the week.

A reasonable person would believe it should had been handled by, a reasonable accommodation; by closing tax side, keeping Recorder of Deeds open, bring in porta-pottys for employees and place outside building. Leave sign saying no restrooms. Allow business to continue at RofD office (they are a low traffic department anyway). Allowing marriage license's to be picked up as scheduled. Have phone numbers that actually go to a human so you can get direction instead of ring/no answer and automated loops.

Complete failure by the director of the RofD office, perhaps her position should be re evaluated. Imagine the legal remedies if you could get around the sovereign...

The Downtown Historical District in Independence, Missouri, is a significant area that reflects the city's rich and pivotal role in American history. Founded in 1827, Independence quickly became a vital frontier town and the primary outfitting point for pioneers embarking on the Santa Fe, Oregon, and California Trails, earning it the nickname "Queen City of the Trails." The Independence Square served as the bustling center of activity during these times.

Today, the Historic District encompasses numerous well-preserved buildings and landmarks that tell the story of this era. Visitors can explore sites like the Historic Truman Courthouse on the Square, where they can see an Oregon Trail marker. The 1859 Jail, Marshal's Home & Museum offers a glimpse into frontier justice, while the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion showcase impressive 19th-century architecture and offer insights into the lives of prominent citizens. The National Frontier Trails Museum further details the experiences of the westward bound pioneers.

Beyond its pioneer history, Downtown Independence is also deeply connected to President Harry S. Truman, whose childhood home and Presidential Library and Museum are major attractions located just outside the immediate downtown area but contribute significantly to the historical character of the city. The district itself blends its historical significance with local shops, restaurants, and a revitalized atmosphere, making it a compelling place to visit and explore the layers of...