See all items contributed by the Nancy Hillyard Hampton Library and Archival Center >

The Nancy Hillyard Hampton Library and Archival Center (formerly known as the St. Joseph Museums Reference Library) contains non-circulating local and regional history information, as well as the Archives of the St. Joseph Museums. The Museums’ mission is the collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting items that reflect the interests and history of the St. Joseph area and its citizens. The Center is open by appointment only and is contingent on staff availability.

In 2004, the St. Joseph Museums, Inc., moved its main office, reference library and archives to 3406 Frederick Avenue. In 2012, the library and archives were re-named the Nancy Hillyard Hampton Library and Archival Center in honor of Mrs. Hampton’s more than 30 years of volunteer service to the St. Joseph Museums.

The areas of research covered by the Center include the history of St. Joseph and the surrounding area, the role of St. Joseph during the Westward Expansion, the Pony Express, the Civil War (local and general history), Jesse James, and the American Indians of North America. The Center also has the Eckel/Brunner Architectural Collection, featuring blueprints, correspondence, and other documents relating to architect Edmond J. Eckel and his successors.

3406 Frederick Avenue
St Joseph, MO 64506