Missouri State Historical Society breaks ground for new headquarters

The Missouri State Historical Society will soon have a new home of its own.

On Wednesday, the organization broke ground for the Center for Missouri Studies in downtown Columbia.

“This facility will enhance the society’s century-old reputation as the premier center for the study of state and local history in Missouri,” said Gary R. Kremer, executive director. It will also make the collected artwork of famous Missouri artists such as George Caleb Bingham and Thomas Hart Benton more accessible than ever before, and will allow Missourians to connect to their rich cultural heritage in exciting new ways.”

The 76,000-square-foot facility will be located at Sixth and Elm streets. It will be a stark contrast to the society’s current location in the basement of Ellis Library on Mizzou’s campus.

U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt agrees the new building will bring new opportunities and visibility to Missourians.

“The state historical society has a great collection, but I don’t think it’s ever been quite as available to Missourians as it will be in the future and we’re reflective of so many things that happened in the history of the country,” said Sen. Blunt.

The society hopes the new facility will strengthen its connection with the community and Mizzou’s campus.

The Missouri State Historical Society was founded in 1898 and established as a trustee of the state a year later. For more information, click here.