History
Ruskin Heights is a neighborhood located in Kansas City, MO. Established in the 1950s, Ruskin Heights has a storied past – most notably the tornado on May 20th, 1957.
The Ruskin Heights tornado was rated an F5, and tore a 71-mile path through the neighborhood. It was a long road to recovery, and now this event is commemorated by a large memorial.
The Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails were the main trails which crossed the country to the west. The Oregon Trail was traveled by pioneers looking to start new homes in a new part of the country. The California Trail was traveled by those looking for find their fortune in gold. Both were primarily traveled going west.
The Santa Fe Trail, however, was a trade route, so was traveled east and west. These trails converge in an area which transects directly through the Hickman Mills community. In fact, this is the only area where all three are located as one.
The former Grandview Triangle is also the site of where several modern “trails” converge. This area was once considered one of the most congested, so in 2000 work was begun to “untangle the triangle”.
In 2005 it was officially renamed by the Missouri General Assembly, Three Trails Crossing Memorial Highway. The trails auto tour is labeled throughout the area.
Timeline
Creation of Ruskin Heights
Ruskin Heights was developed as a postwar suburb on former farmland in southeast Kansas City, Missouri.
Ruskin Heights Tornado
An F5 tornado devastated Ruskin Heights, destroying homes, businesses, and Ruskin Heights High School. It was part of the Central Plains tornado outbreak.
Housing Boom & Rebuilding
Ruskin Heights quickly rebuilt after the tornado. Over 3,000 homes were constructed during this period, creating a strong postwar suburban community.
Opening of Bannister Mall
Bannister Mall, located in Ruskin Heights, became a popular shopping destination and peaked in popularity during this decade.
Current Population & Density
Ruskin Heights recorded a population of 23,874, making it one of Kansas City’s most densely populated neighborhoods.
HOA President
LaTasha Peeler
Office
816.761.6050
Hours
Varies – call for availability
Location
- Our office has free notary services for HOA residents (notary by appointment)
- Trash tags can be purchased from the HOA office for $2.50/ea
- Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM at the Ruskin High School Media Center (no meetings in July, August or December)