Kansas City's 18th and Vine Historic District

Some years ago, I imagine about a decade, there was an effort to begin to restore Kansas City's 18th and Vine Historic District. In my view, it was half way done, perhaps. Too bad the results that some had hoped for have not yet been realized, such as bustling commerce and new housing, yet some of the efforts certainly deserve recognition.

This district has rich history, especially that of African Americans. Home of the Negro League Baseball Museum, the Gem Theater, and Kansas City Jazz Museum, there is much to see and do yet in this classic part of old Kansas City.

The area around 18th and Vine that is referenced actually spans several city blocks. In the late 1800s African Americans began to populate the area, and it became an important area for commerce. However, what it is best known for is its classic nightlife. During the 1920's this area was known far and wide for its nightlife. These were the days, also, of Kansas City political boss Tom Pendergast and Prohibition.

Although New Orleans is credited for the birth of Jazz and Chicago had a hot jazz scene at the time, many thought this art form was unparalleled as in Kansas City. Some of the greats were from here, such as Charlie Parker, also known as "Bird," and Big Joe Turner. In those days, many of the clubs never even closed. There was gambling, alcohol, prostitution, and a lot of dancing!

18th and Vine was an African American community. Aside from the popular clubs, it was self contained, and spanned from 12th street to 27th, approximately. It was a busy and successful community in its times. The area began to decline after 1940, the end of the Perdergast era. The clubs began to close down, on the onset of the war made it difficult for the jazz musicians to travel. However, many famous jazz musicians still came to Kansas City and spent time in the district, the home of Charlie "Bird" Parker. Some of those who came were Dexter Gordon, Sonny Stitt, and Miles Davis.