This Week in Kansas City History
A Myth is Born
September 26, 1872: In front of an estimated 10,000 people exiting the Kansas City Industrial Exposition, three bandits (including Jesse & Frank James) rob the ticket office and escape with $978.
“The Greatest Display of Skill, Nerve, and Daring”
September 17, 1922: Averaging 107 miles per hour, racecar driver Tommy Milton wins the inaugural race at the Kansas City Speedway, also known as "the Old Board Track" at 95th and Troost.
Wilkins Rising
August 30, 1901: Roy O. Wilkins, who will spend eight years as reporter and editor of the Kansas City Call before moving on to lead the NAACP, is born in St. Louis, Missouri.
Aviation Takes Off
August 17, 1927: After flying to Kansas City in the Spirit of St. Louis, famed aviator Charles Lindbergh dedicates Municipal Airport while on a national tour to promote air travel.
The Greatest Pitcher Ever
July 7, 1906: Satchel Paige, who will win fame as a pitcher for the Kansas City Monarchs and be elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971, is born in Mobile, Alabama.
