A People's History of Kansas City

When Independence destroyed a Black neighborhood

By Savannah Hawley-Bates,

Published May 25, 2023 at 4:00 AM CDT

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In the 1900s, the Neck neighborhood was the center of the Black community in Independence, Missouri. But by 1969, the neighborhood had been demolished — thanks to urban renewal policies put into place by President Harry S. Truman, who lived nearby. Today, it’s the site of McCoy Park, a vast green space that connects the Harry S. Truman Library to the Independence Square.

This episode of A People's History of Kansas City was reported and produced by Savannah Hawley-Bates, with editing by Lisa Rodriguez.

A People's History of Kansas City

Savannah Hawley-Bates

As KCUR's local government reporter, I’ll hold our leaders accountable and show how their decisions about development, transit and the economy shape your life. I meet with people at city council meetings, on the picket lines and in their community to break down how power and inequities change our community. Email me at savannahhawley@kcur.org.

See stories by Savannah Hawley-Bates

Suzanne Hogan

As managing podcast producer for KCUR Studios and a host of A People’s History of Kansas City, I want to feed your curious mind, offer historical context so you understand why things are the way they are, and introduce you to the people working to make a difference behind the scenes. Reach me at hogansm@kcur.org.

See stories by Suzanne Hogan