Screen Shot 2015-09-16 at 1.44.02 PMBridget Koan // Fall 2015

Kansas City Young Matrons Clubhouse moves to prepare for 51st and Oak development

After months of planning, numerous people gathered on Sept. 12 to watch the 79-year-old Kansas City Young Matrons Clubhouse as it was moved from 51st and Oak streets to a site near the UMKC School of Education.

The move allows the Kansas City Young Matrons to preserve their historic house, remain connected to the University and allows UMKC to continue the 51st and Oak development. The project will feature a Whole Foods Market, a more modern student health services center that is closer to the students who use it and new luxury apartments.

“It is nice to see so many people come out to watch history in the making here on our campus,” says UMKC Chancellor Leo E. Morton. “The faculty and students are excited to see all that goes into moving a 79-year old historic home down the street and around the corner. All the while, seeing how light poles and signage have to be removed to make it happen. It truly does take a village.”

Morton and Bonne Illig of the Kansas City Young Matrons also participated in a ceremonial land swap by exchanging potted plants. The soil was taken from the land on the Kansas City Young Matrons’ previous home and from the land at the new location.

“Let the plants stand as a symbol of what is possible when we dare to dream and when we demonstrate care and cooperation with one another,” Morton said.

The Young Matrons and UMKC share a commitment to community service. The Young Matrons are supporters of UMKC’s Graduate Assistance Fund. The fund is for women graduate students and helps them participate in research and other special educational experiences. Over the years, thousands of women have benefitted from this unique fund.

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