Tag Archives: Jackson County
Chief Massasoit
This is the statue of Chief Massasoit that stands in front of the Winstead’s Diner in Kansas City, Missouri and faces the Plaza. For those unaware, Massasoit and his Wampanoag tribe were the first Native Americans to forge an alliance with the three-month-old Plymouth Colony. In fact, they are largely responsible for keeping the clueless … Continue reading
Blood in the Foundations
Before June 17th, 1933, two things were true. Criminals like “Machine Gun” Kelly and Bonnie and Clyde had the upper hand on law enforcement, both in firepower and in the hearts of a Depression-wracked Midwest where they were seen almost as Robin Hood figures. And an insecure, hot-tempered lawyer named John Edgar Hoover led a … Continue reading
Mr. Rhoades Goes to Jackson County
The introductory video was right about one thing: I have a better understanding of the judicial system now that I have served jury duty. I understand that I hate it. And yes, I’m aware that it is a fundamental part of American justice…a duty of living in a free society…la dee freaking da. There was … Continue reading
Killing Them Softly
I’ve been on a bit of a Kansas City history kick lately. Not too long ago I read The Brookside Story, a thin volume about the creation, development, and evolution of a neighborhood I work in and live near. Designed by the legendary J.C. Nichols, more famous for developing the renowned Country Club Plaza, Brookside … Continue reading
Rhoades to Madness 