Blue Springs, Missouri, located nineteen miles east of downtown Kansas City, has a population of 52,575. Blue Springs has abundant recreation opportunities with 22 city parks, including Flemming Park which is home to Blue Springs Lake and Lake Jacomo. The school districts of Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, and Grain Valley all serve the city of Blue Springs. The Blue Springs School District which serves most of the residents, has received a perfect score on the Annual Performance Report for twelve years in a row. The Blue Springs School District is one of only seven school districts in this state to have that many consecutive years of Distinction.
Blue Springs, a thriving city in the heart of Missouri, owes its name and rich history to the pioneers who embarked on their westward journey searching for new horizons. As these brave settlers ventured into the unknown, they stumbled upon a place of profound significance where nature's bounty would shape the destiny of an entire community.The key to this newfound settlement's appeal was a pristine spring, fed by the Little Blue River, that provided an abundant source of cool, crystal-clear water. This natural wonder became the area's defining feature, giving rise to the name "Blue Springs."With such a valuable resource and the necessity for pioneer supplies, the foundation for a permanent settlement was laid. The echoes of history reverberate in the city's Burrus Old Mill Park, located on Woods Chapel Road, where a grist mill was erected to meet the needs of the growing population.Fast forward to September 7, 1880, and an essential milestone in the city's history was reached. The Jackson County Court officially granted the incorporation of Blue Springs, making it the fourth settlement in the county, predating even the bustling metropolis of Kansas City, Missouri. One notable figure in the early days of Blue Springs was Franklin Smith, a Virginia transplant who arrived in 1838. His contributions to the community were invaluable, including establishing the first post office in 1845, aptly named after the renowned Blue Springs.As Blue Springs continued to flourish around the remarkable springs, destiny took an intriguing turn in 1878. The Chicago and Alton Railroad unveiled ambitious plans to construct a station approximately one mile east of the original settlement. Recognizing the tremendous economic potential that the railroad would bring, the town boldly decided to relocate its center to the new station's site. This strategic move ensured the town's growth as a vibrant rural trading hub.From its modest beginnings, Blue Springs has evolved into a thriving city. In 1970, its population stood at a respectable 6,779 residents. Today, it proudly boasts a thriving community of more than 58,000 people, a testament to its enduring appeal and continued growth.For those eager to delve deeper into the history of Blue Springs, the Historic Preservation Commission is a valuable resource. Additionally, the Blue Springs Historical Society, a non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 1976, is a dedicated guardian of the city's heritage. Committed to preserving, promoting, and fostering an appreciation for Blue Springs' storied past, the society welcomes all who seek to explore the rich tapestry of this remarkable community.As we explore the past of Blue Springs, we gain insight into the roots of its vibrant present and its promising future. This journey through history reveals the enduring spirit of a city that continues to thrive and evolve while honoring its remarkable origins.