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There's Always Something to Do in Richmond!
RAY COUNTY MUSEUM
Can you think of a better way to spend an afternoon than in a climate controlled environment that can enrich your mind with history? A visit to the Ray County Museum can do just that. The Museum is located at 901 West Royle Street in Richmond, near the fairgrounds. The building was built in 1910 by the county at a cost of $19,491 and was a totally modern building with electricity and indoor plumbing. It was the Ray County Poor farm from 1910 to 1960 when it became used as a rest home until 1971. The building is still owned by Ray County and is leased to Ray County Historical Society and Museum, Inc. This group
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was established in the 1950’s and found a permanent home in 1973 when they opened the Ray County Museum.
The Museum has local artifacts from the 1800’s through the present time in 37 rooms on three different floors. Exhibits include Civil War memorabilia, Indian artifacts, coal mining history, Daughter of the American Revolution, Mormon History and so much more pertaining to the past of Ray County.
The Ray County Historical Society and The Friends of the Museum work together operating the Museum. It’s also the home of the Ray County Genealogy Association which has a library housed in the museum. Volunteers from the Genealogy Association staff the library and are available to assist you in your genealogical quest.
The Museum, one of Richmond’s best kept secrets, is open year round, Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. They sponsor many special events throughout the year. You can contact the Museum at 816-776-2305 or visit their website at raycountymuseum.zoomshare.com. You will also find it listed on Facebook as Ray County Museum & Genealogical Library. |
FARRIS THEATRE
In the mood for hot buttered pop corn, a coke and a good show? The Farris Theatre is the place for you. The fully restored historic Farris Theatre and Arts District hosts current movies, theatrical productions, musical productions, art shows, weddings, and other community events.
The building was built as an opera house in 1901 and called the Dougherty Auditorium, named after Sam Dougherty who built and operated the theatre for several years. The theatre was home to movies and live acts as well. Through the century, the theatre had numerous owners and at times sat empty, not being used. In 1995, Friends of the Farris, Inc. acquired and began renovations of the Farris Theatre. Many donations from the community and long hours of hard work have brought the Farris back to life, including the recent completion of the restoration of the Farris Arts District.
Movies, plays, school events, youth programs, choirs, art shows, community and church events, weddings, comedians, magicians, bands, variety shows, the list goes on and on of the array of entertainment and social happenings at the Farris. We hope you get a chance to visit and enjoy this gem of Richmond.
MORE TO DO:
• Dining & Lodging
• Arts & Entertainment
• Historic Sites
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Major Events in Richmond
SPRING OPEN HOUSE
Normally the 2nd week of March. Richmond and Henrietta Area Craft, Antique and Florist Shops have Open House, refreshments and drawings. Contact Lynn Pearson, 816-776-5526.
ANNUAL MUSHROOM FESTIVAL
First weekend of May. Richmond, Missouri, Mushroom Capital of the World. Contact Ellen Vandiver, 816-776-6916. Click here for more details.
RAY COUNTY FAIR (American Celebration)
Stars in mid-July. Ray County Fairgrounds in Richmond. Some of the special events include Amateur Rodeo, Tractor Pull, Demolition Derby, 4-H Shows, Farmer Appreciation Dinner and Livestock Sale. Contact Nancy Coleman, University Extension Office, 816-776-6961.
OUTLAW DAYS
Richmond's Outlaw Days is a Wild West themed fall festival with something for everyone. The festival will feature a bank robbery reenactment of an actual bank robbery that took place in 1867 on the square. The festival will also include a 5k/10k Run, Pony Rides, Wild West Street Performances, live music and more.
ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET
In late September or early October of each year, a banquet is held to introduce the Chamber’s new board members and thank the outgoing members who have served the Chamber. It’s always a great time with wonderful food. A variety of special quests have entertained the crowd over the past few years including professional baseball players, comedians and entrepreneurs. Contact Ellen Vandiver at 816-776-6916.
TURKEY TROT
5K Race or 2K Walk sponsored by Anytime Fitness is held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The event starts and finishes at the Chamber Office in Richmond’s Downtown Square. Contact Ellen Vandiver at 816-776-6916.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Normally the 2nd week in November. Richmond and Ray County Area. Shops have Christmas Open House, refreshments drawings and sale prices for Christmas. Friday hours 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday hours 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday hours 1 - 5 p.m. Contact Lynn Pearson, 816-776-5526.
CHAMBER CHRISTMAS TREE EXTRAVAGANZA
The Chamber provides trees and wreaths to be decorated in themes and sponsored by local businesses. They are display the first part of November through the Tuesday before Thanksgiving at the Chamber office. A drawing is held for these beautiful works of art after the Community Tree and Square lighting ceremony, starting at 6 p.m. Contact chamber for additional information.
CHRISTMAS LIGHT PARADE
In early December the Chamber partners with Richmond’s Downtown District Committee to assembly a Christmas Light Parade. Every entry in the parade is bright with lights and a Snow Princess is crowned following the parade during the Extravaganza Program. Anyone interested in entering the parade is encouraged to participated. Contact Ellen Vandiver at 816-776-6916.
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