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KC History & Heritage

Kansas City’s historical strength in agricultural markets helped to lay the groundwork for its current leadership position in animal health.

   

Stock Yards

The Kansas City Stock Yards were established in 1871 and were second only to Chicago as a livestock and provision market. Kansas City grew to become one of the great stockyards of the world, and today that heritage continues through the region’s strength in a variety of agricultural markets. It was this history and heritage that led to the development of the region’s top-tier veterinary schools, as well as both Kansas and Missouri’s top ten position in America’s livestock industries.

Transportation Facilities

Kansas City was founded as a transportation center and gateway to western expansion. Stock yards and agricultural growth continued in transportation and distribution. Sixteen railroads converged in Kansas City switched directly to KC’s stockyards. Transportation/logistics continues to provide Kansas City with an advantage in today’s markets, with KC being the top rail center in tonnage in the U.S. and the nation’s number 3 trucking center. For more information on KC’s superior transportation and logistics capabilities, please visit this site’s Logistical Advantages section, or the Kansas City SmartPort web site.

American Royal & Ag Hall of Fame

 

No event better captures KC’s agricultural heritage than the American Royal livestock show and rodeo. The American Royal has been a Kansas City tradition since its founding in 1899 to support agricultural education and values. Plus, KC is home to the Agricultural Hall of Fame – a national agricultural center chartered by Congress to honor the American farmer.

“[Kansas City’s roots] created a demand for veterinary products and services to keep herds healthy and avoid losses.”

– Kansas City Business Journal


“[Kansas City] was the nation’s second-largest livestock market and processing center…the bustling trade helped the area build up many businesses related to animal health, laying the groundwork for life after the stockyards.”

– Kansas City Business Journal


“The Kansas City area too often has tried to deny its past as a center for agriculture and as a cow town. It’s time we look at this history with pride – and with recognition of the bright potential it continues to provide.”

– Kansas City Business Journal

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For more information, contact:
Lynn Parman
Vice President, Life Sciences & Technology
Kansas City Area Development Council
2600 Commerce Tower
911 Main Street
Kansas City, Missouri 64105-2049
Direct: 816.374.5627
Email: parman@thinkKC.com

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