Independence Historical Society

09/03/2026

VOICES FROM THE PAST: A Special Afternoon at HEMLOCK CEMETERY!
Did you know that before towns had public parks, cemeteries were community gathering spaces where families regularly had picnics? Join the Independence Historical Society as we revive a historic tradition to celebrate our town’s pioneers and raise funds for the ongoing restoration of the cemetery!

📅 Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
📍 Location: Hemlock Cemetery (park in the Technology Center/Hemlock Trail lot)
What to Expect:
• Purchase pizza and pop on site.
• Learn ways to support our restoration program to repair, reset and clean broken gravestones and revitalize the grounds.
• Walk the grounds and experience stories of early residents, shared by costumed actors.
🎟️ Admission: $5 per person donation at the gate; $5.50 online.
💬 Learn more: www.independencehistoricalsociety.com/programs
All funds go directly to restoring the cemetery. Let’s come together to honor and preserve our history! See you there!
Advance admission/donation ($5.50 includes Square fees): https://square.link/u/zNebK0lj

08/06/2026

We had a blast at the newly rebranded INDEPENDENCE HISTORY CENTER for our 60th anniversary! The 60s vibe filled the Square with energy! A huge thanks to this amazing community for 60 years of support.

Stay tuned for upcoming events in the Community Spotlight and Independence Today magazines, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Let’s keep the celebration going!

07/31/2026

FRIDAY, JULY 31st!!! 5:00-9:00 PM
Come for a fun night of entertainment, celebration, and a look back into life in the 60s! Independence's very own, Kathrine Baumann, will be joining the Historical Society for our 60th Anniversary. She'll be signing autographs and displaying her famous handbags. You don't want to miss it! Bonus points if you dress in a 60s inspired outfit!

07/24/2026

FRIDAY , July 31st. 5:00-9:00 in the square!

07/08/2026

Get ready to travel back in time! The Independence Historical Society is turning 60, and we want YOU to join the celebration! Mark your calendars for a 60s-themed event in the Square and in the History Center on FRIDAY, JULY 31st, 4PM-8PM!

06/29/2026

THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to help out or visit Historic Hall this weekend! Your support for the Community of Faith exhibit and our organization is greatly appreciated!

06/27/2026

Phase 1 of the Hemlock Cemetery restoration has begun! You can use this link to donate to the cause:
https://square.link/u/jIxSZ9fk

06/23/2026

06/17/2026

ANNOUNCEMENT: HEMLOCK CEMETERY RESTORATION IS UNDERWAY!
The Independence Historical Society is pleased to announce that the first phase of monument restoration at Hemlock Cemetery will start on Saturday, June 27th and continue throughout 2026, as weather permits. Workers will be present alone, and for insurance and safety reasons, cannot be disturbed. However, passers-by are welcome to observe the process.

If you have ancestors buried at Hemlock, please email us to consider “adopting a grave” to support our restoration efforts and honor your family member. We welcome questions and concerns from those related to anyone buried at Hemlock. Email us for a list of surnames.

We look forward to restoring this important Independence landmark and hope it becomes a destination for learning about the early pioneers of Independence.

We are planning a fun informational event at Hemlock Cemetery in October. Please follow us on Facebook or our website and check for updates in the Community Spotlight.

06/08/2026

We came across this lovely photograph at Historic Hall, but have no information on who this bride is.

Does she look familiar to anyone?