NPS Santa Fe National Historic Trail
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  • 1014. McCoy Park, Independence, Missouri

    Several people standing under a metal gazebo lined with interpretive signs.
    McCoy Park gazebo

    McCoy Park, a respite for modern travelers, is named in honor of William McCoy, the first Mayor of Independence, Missouri. Founded in 1827, the town was finally incorporated in 1849. McCoy’s home—still standing as a private residence—has been visible on the southern bluff of the Mill Creek valley since the 1840s. Santa Fe Trail travelers passed by the McCoy home on their southwesterly trek from the Independence-Wayne City River Landing to town and many overland travelers likely enjoyed the first family’s hospitality.


    Today, interpretive exhibits showing this area as an avenue once carrying westward travelers are under the blue-topped shelter house at the south end of the park . . . within sight of McCoy’s historic home at 410 West Farmer. 


    For more information:

    Owens-McCoy House