Our museum, in a restored depot, tells the history of the railroad and the area surrounding Higginsville. We have genealogical items including plat books and school histories, as well as items made by Orphan Train Children who grew up here.
The Higginsville Depot
The Higginsville Depot was built in 1889. Charles Aversman, a former resident, purchased and authentically restored this last depot in Lafayette County. His application to place it on the National Register of Historic Places was granted in 1987. An antique shop was the first occupant. Mr. Aversman's fatal illness forced the sale of the historic facility.
The Depot is outlined in lights making it a focal point of historical interest for the town of Higginsville.
This historic building is the last usable depot remaining in Lafayette County.
The HJH Historical Society is extremely proud of the official county marker placed at Shelby and 15th Street in Higginsville.
It tells the history of this county's first railroad, which contributed greatly to its growth. The original depot and RR Tracks were razed in the 1980's.
The Library
The Society's library contains publications and a number of books which are very useful for research of all types, especially for genealogical help. Information covering Bert Hall of the Lafayette Esquadrille in WWI is one of many items available.
Other Items Available:
Higginsville telephone books dating back to 1908
Coal-mining memorabilia
Lafayette County cemetery records
1860 census record of Lafayette County
1800s-era marriage records
Harvey J. Higgins Historical Society
The HJH Historical Society was founded by Russell Santmyer, Walter Hadaller and Loberta Runge. The organization's objectives are to collect and preserve materials which may establish and/or illustrate the history of the Higginsville area.
Upon Mr. Santmyer's death he left a donation to the organization which allowed them to eventually purchase the historical depot from the estate of Charles Aversman.
This community landmark is now used to house the collections of the Harvey J. Higgins Historical Society and as a meeting place for the organization.
Meetings of the Harvey J. Higgins Historical Society are held first Monday of the month at 6:00pm.
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Give us a call if you would like to become a member of the Harvey J. Higgins Historical Society
2113 Main Street
Higginsville, MO 64037
Phone: 660-584-6474
Kid-friendly
Museum
Interpretive Signs
National Register of Historic Places
AC / Heating
Bus / RV Parking
Group Tours
Parking
Restrooms
Research Library
Staffed
Wheel Chair Accessible