As part of our Uncovering History Project, the Midtown KC Post is examining each block in Midtown. A set of 1940 tax assessment photos is available for many blocks.
The photos below show the rest of the homes on the block as they looked in 1940.
Today, we look at residences and businesses in the West Plaza neighborhood, from 45th Street south to 46th Street, from Bell to State Line. The block included several businesses, including Phillips Market and Wright’s Lunch on 45th, and several small residences.
Photos courtesy Kansas City Public Library, Missouri Valley Special Collections.
I don’t know anything about the photos, but I sure hope someone else does. This is my neighborhood, and I’d like to know more about each of these houses and buildings.
I just moved to the West Plaza neighborhood in July, and I’m enjoying your historical series. Although I lived in Platte County the past 45 years, I’ve always been involved in activities in the midtown region and love living here, now!
margie
I would love to know more about this area; my life began here.
Great photos. There must be some stories here, waiting to be told.
In recent years, the 45th & State Line intersection has become an antique shop area. From 1946 to 1954 I lived with my parents on the northwest corner in the old farm house at 4458 State Line. That house was subsequently razed to provide parking. I was familiar with the nearby blocks in Missouri and Kansas. I kept in touch with the area since my maternal grandparents lived at the house they built at 4432 State Line until the mid-1970s; before 1920 they lived at 4456 State Line. In a later message, I will provide more about that corner of the world, including the block which is the focus of this entry.
Since I grew up at 45th & State Line, II left a comment earlier but have yet Tico get an acknowledgement or see it posted.