Convention Hall

The original Convention Hall opened to the public in February, 1899, built in anticipation of hosting the 1900 Democratic National Convention. 

Original Convention Hall

On April 4, 1900, Convention Hall burned to the ground, just three months before the Democratic Convention was scheduled to take place.  Citizens came together with financial contributions and manpower to meet an impossible deadline.  Construction crews worked around the clock, and 90 days later the rebuilding of Convention Hall was completed, and William Jennings Bryan was nominated to run for President on the Democratic ticket. 

Convention Hall continued serving Kansas City until 1937, when it was razed two years after the completion of Municipal Auditorium, which still stands today.  At one time the building was painted red:

"Interior of Convention Hall as arranged for theatrical performances, seating capacity 15,000, Kansas City, Mo."