About Us

The Center for Midwestern Studies, located in the History Department at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, exists to promote and explore the history and culture of the American Midwest.

First established in 2002 with an initial goal to develop an encyclopedia of Kansas City, the Center has since transformed into a dynamic organization that serves as an intellectual hub for cultural organizations, K-12 educators, students, and members of the public interested in the history of the region.

As the revitalized Center for Midwestern Studies, our mission is to encourage and disseminate innovative research, teaching, and public programming about the American Midwest. The Center facilitates conversations among the public, scholars, educators, and cultural institutions to gain a greater understanding of this diverse region.

We fulfill this mission through:

  • Education
  • Research
  • Public Programming