Have you ever thought about where our beautiful city began? Kansas City started using cameras in the mid 1800s, but many photos have been kept private or lost to time. Some of the oldest photos we’ve found include streets and buildings that just aren’t here anymore. Often, the differences across 150 years is shocking. After some digging, we’ve found some of the oldest photos ever taken in Kansas City. Enjoy!

1. In 1860, the view from 6th and Main St. looked as simple as this:
Wikimedia Commons
2. This one that's titled "Kansas City and Olathe interurban streetcar, circa 1909"
Wikimedia Commons
3. The corner 9th & Wyandotte circa 1870, which was just a scattering of small buildings back then.
Wikimedia Commons
4. An 1870 view of Del. St. from 3rd. It looks so empty!
Wikimedia Commons
5. This photo of an old Fire Engine is from 1912. At least there wasn't as much traffic as there is now!
internetarchivebookimages/Flickr
I wonder if they used sirens too... or whether they just hollered!
6. Here's the junction of Main and Del. circa 1860.
Wikimedia Commons
It's amazing how much our city's filled in since then!

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7. This shot of the West Kansas City railroad that was taken in August 1870.
Wikimedia Commons
8. This photo comes from a book titled "Birds of Swope Park in the heart of America, Kansas City, Mo" and was printed in 1920.
internetarchivebookimages/Flickr
It sure makes you wonder if this tree is still standing.
9. Here's the west side of Union Street from 8th Street, circa 1880.
Wikimedia Commons
10. A view of the Union Depot, circa 1880.
Wikimedia Commons
11. Here's a photo of a busy Walnut Street in 1910. Watch out for the streetcar!
Wikimedia Commons
12. This 1878 view is titled "West Kansas from Wyandotte, Kansas City, Missouri, by Bower Bros."
Wikimedia Commons
13. The Kansas City Mining Co. (and workers), circa 1890.
Wikimedia Commons

Do you have any photos of this time period? Share them with us in the comments! Sharing history is the best way to celebrate your roots. For more amazing old photos snapped in Missouri check out this incredible collection of St. Louis’ oldest photos!

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