Next week, the City of Raytown will celebrate its 75th birthday, honoring the City’s rich history of the Santa Fe trails, continued progress and its connection of community. Once known as the “Lost Township” Raytown became incorporated July 17, 1950 after citizens sought to escape annexation from Kansas City.
“We’re a small town, all united by a love for these 10 square miles,” said Mayor Michael McDonough. “Let me be the first to wish a very happy birthday to our wonderful City.”
A variety of activities are planned from July 12 – 19 including an ice cream and cake social, free concert and more. The City has partnered with Raytown Quality Schools, the Chamber, Raytown Fire District, the Raytown Historical Society & Museum, Friends of Rice-Tremonti, Raytown Parks & Recreation, and others through the Mayor’s Ad-Hoc Planning Committee.
Saturday, July 12 (Theme: Learning from our Past):
10 am – 5 pm Antique & Yard Sale, Rice-Tremonti Home, 8801 E 66th Street
7 pm – Raytown Live on the Greenspace, 10009 E 62nd Street, Leveetown Band to perform. Come early to check out vendors. Coolers, blankets and lawn chairs welcome.
Thursday, July 17 (Theme: Living in our Present):
10 am – 4 pm Open House and free tours at the Raytown Historical Society & Museum, 9705 E 63rd Street.
4:30 – 7:30 pm Cake and Ice Cream Social at Kenagy Park, 9718 E 79 Street. The City will distribute Raytown hand flags, the Fire District will grill hotdogs and bring their pumper, a special appearance by the Shriner Clowns and more. Cake and ice cream, until supplies last.
5:30 pm Wear your Raytown t-shirt and get in the picture for the drone shot. Link to purchase.
Saturday, July 19 (Theme: Looking towards our Future):
4 – 6 pm Raytown High School Performing Arts Center, 6019 Blue Ridge Blvd This event will culminate the birthday celebration. Mayor McDonough’s remarks will give a glimpse of what exciting things are next for Raytown. Dr. Knox, Raytown Quality Schools Superintendent will also give an update. Student art displays along with other historical photos will be on site for viewing.
The City is asking neighborhoods, HOAs, businesses, etc., to also get in on the revelry. Organizations or neighborhoods are encouraged to host a block party, a community clean-up day, create a time capsule, host a trivia or bingo night at your favorite Raytown restaurant or bar. Once the event is created, City officials are asking groups to post on social and use hashtag #Raytown75.
