Throwback to a Different Time

While visiting the historic city square in Independence, Missouri, we stopped in to Clinton's. Clinton's is an old fashioned soda shop where you can get a handmade soda from a "soda jerk" made with their own phosphates. Their staff is fast and friendly with virtually no wait. The soda itself is a treat (I recommend the Cream Soda), but they also offer hand-dipped ice cream and other favorites. Additionally, the store has some real historic roots not just locally, but even internationally.

Humble Beginnings of Harry S. Truman

While at Clinton's, you can read a letter written by Harry Truman while serving as President of the United States recalling his days working at Clinton's Drug Store (the original primary function of the shop) as a youth. It was one of Truman's first jobs and he recalls how he had to sweep and mop the floors, make ice cream, and keep the store stocked. A very working class start for the man that would eventually oversee the U.S. in finishing WWII and through the Korean War.

Clinton's Today

If you are visiting Independence, Missouri (about 15 minutes from Kansas City), this nice little shop is worth a visit for a soda or ice cream. You can browse some of their historic photos and articles on the walls. You can also see where other visitors have come from and put a pin on the map if your place in the world hasn't been represented yet. If you love the old school soda, you can take some of Polly's Pop to go with you. It's made and bottled right there in Independence down the street from Clinton's. There are some other cool souvenirs as well.

Apparently, someone else had already visited Clinton's from St. Petersburg, Russia so we didn't need to add a pin to the map. Glad to see Russia was representing well at Clinton's.

Look for some more posts about the wonderful Independence, Missouri square and its significant history as the launching point for the famous Oregon, California, and Sante Fe Trails, which began from this small town long ago.