Support Us Button Widget

Kansas City’s National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Wordpress Image (2)

A larger-than-life dollhouse. | Photo by The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

Did you know the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures is located right here in the Heart of America? The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, located close to UMKC’s campus, is also home to one of the largest collections of historic toys in the country. Let’s take a look at how this larger-than-life dollhouse became a home for trinkets so small.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures opened in 1982 as the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City. The museum was (and still is) housed in the historic Tureman Mansion, which was the home of Dr. Herbert Tureman + his wife, Marie. Close friends Mary Harris Francis + Barbara Marshall pooled their collection to start the museum. Mary donated her old toys that she collected as a hobby while Barbara, who worked in Hallmark’s art department, commissioned handcrafted miniatures from professional artists.

The museum initially started out as 7,500 sqft, but expansions that took place in 1989 and 2004 nearly quintupled the size. The most recent expansion happened in 2015, where an 18-month renovation added new interactive exhibits + artifacts. The spot also officially changed its name to The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Today, the spot holds miniatures scaled one inch to every foot of room settings, architectural structures, and decorative arts, including an Italian Renaissance studio and a Boston Hill mansion. Toys from the 18th century can also be seen on display — from dolls + dollhouses to STEM toys. The entire collection has 84,000+ objects, the oldest doll being Georgiana, an English wooden doll circa 1750 that has a wig made from human hair. Seasonal exhibits also take place at the museum, with current and past ones updated on its website.

More from KCtoday
Whether you’re staying fit or meeting new folks, these locally-operated running clubs in Kansas City offer meet-ups, community, and health-focused fun.
You’ll relish this experience.
As KC continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.
Whether the boys in blue win or lose the series, Kansas Citians are Forever Royal — even if their latest swag is from 2015.
Midwest Fancy is a state of mind — and a scourge on our wallets.
The museum launched a global request for proposal for a 61,000 sqft project.
After less than one week, the city decided to modify the ordinance due to public reception. Here are the changes.
Planning a KC trip? Here’s what AI says your travel itinerary should be.
Holiday season is finally here and the Heartland is delivering with 20+ events to keep your calendars kicking while the chill sets in.
We’re sure you’ve heard of many of the library’s services, but these are some hidden features that come packed in every KCPL library card.