[Front]

"Come, drink, all who thirst for freedom: The water fountain will no longer separate us as a people."

During the Civil War era, one of every four Clay County residents was of African descent. Although sold in slave auctions and denied inalienable rights, these stalwart men and women helped build homes, churches, roads, schools, and businesses. Along with the planters and farmers, African Americans helped produce the cash crops of grain, hemp, and tobacco that were the foundation of early Clay County wealth.

This monument commemorates African American contributions to Clay County first in slavery and later in freedom. We honor these men and women who rose to become distinguished residents, politicians, educators, and business and civic leaders. We proudly recognize them for their work in the development of the Northland into the pinnacle of success it holds in the Greater Kansas City Metroplex.
Pioneers listed on back of monument

[Back]
Clay County 19th-20th Century
African-American Pioneers
[Listed by occupation and location]
Distinguished Clay County Residents
19th Century · 20th Century
Churches · Schools

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Show me all markers in:  Liberty, MO  |  Clay County  |  64068  |  Missouri  |  United States of America

Liberty
Site of First Daylight Bank Hold Up in United States
Clay County Courthouse
Jesse James Bank Museum
World War Memorial
Liberty Lodge No. 49 I.O.O.F.
16 North Main Street
Clay County Historical Museum
15 East Kansas Street
12 North Main Street

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