Kansas City Museum Reopens Iconic Soda Fountain as Elixir

News Summary

The Kansas City Museum has revitalized a cherished part of local history by reopening its refurbished soda fountain, now named Elixir. Originally inspired by the Kirby Drugstore from 1925, this modern soda fountain combines nostalgic charm with contemporary elements. Visitors can enjoy homemade ice cream and classic drinks while savoring a taste of the past. The museum collaborates with local eateries to offer a menu that highlights Kansas City’s culinary heritage, making each visit not just historic but deliciously memorable.

Welcome to Kansas City: A Blast from the Past with a Soda Twist!

Deep in the heart of Kansas City, where history meets modern flair, something truly special is bubbling up! The Kansas City Museum is reviving a beloved slice of Americana with the opening of its stunningly reimagined soda fountain. Get ready to flash back to the days of **homemade ice cream, phosphates**, and the community feel of a classic drugstore. This isn’t just any soda fountain; it’s a nod to the days when friendly chit-chat and refreshing drinks were the highlight of the day.

From Modena to Kansas City: The Kirby Family Legacy

Once upon a time, in 1925, the charming Kirby Drugstore and soda fountain opened its doors in Modena, Missouri – about 140 miles northwest of Kansas City. Founded by C.W. and Wilma R. Kirby, this little drugstore quickly became the go-to spot for the rural community, serving as more than just a place to pick up medicine. It was a social hub where neighbors gathered to grab a sweet treat and enjoy each other’s company. Can you imagine the laughter and conversations wafting through the air as families dropped by for their favorite soda?

The Kirby family, supported by their six children, ran the show with pride, offering not only pharmacy services but also an outdoor movie theater. Picture this: magical summer evenings spent watching films projected on the side of the drugstore while savoring a delicious ice cream cone. What a delight!

A Taste of Nostalgia

While the pharmacy took care of health concerns, the soda fountain served up **refreshments** that were trending in the early 1900s. The Kirbys dished out homemade ice cream alongside drinks like **Pluto Water**, **Green River**, and **Wine-sip**. Each of these specialties came with its own quirks, and Pluto Water even had the cheeky tagline “America’s Laxative.” Talk about making your drink do double duty!

In the 1970s, however, the beloved Kirby Drugstore closed its doors, leaving behind a treasure trove of memories. In a heartfelt gesture, the Kirby children donated the entire contents of the drugstore to the Kansas City Museum in 1977. Over the years, the museum did a fantastic job recreating the original soda fountain in what became known as the **“1910 Drug Store and Soda Fountain.”** The exhibit allowed visitors to step back in time, enjoying phosphates and ice cream just like the good old days.

Renovation and the Birth of Elixir

Fast forward to 2008 when the Kansas City Museum underwent renovations, forcing the original soda fountain to temporarily close. But don’t worry! It’s back, and it’s better than ever with its latest transformation into **Elixir**! This modern take on the classic soda fountain keeps the charm of the white tin ceiling and original counter while introducing contemporary elements like sleek tables and snazzy booth seating. Talk about finding the perfect balance of past and present!

What’s even more exciting is the collaboration between the Kansas City Museum and local restaurants and coffee shops to craft a menu that celebrates Kansas City’s rich culinary history. You can expect a delightful array of treats that beckon both nostalgia and new tastes, ensuring that your visit is not just about history but also about enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Check It Out!

If you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Kansas City, make sure to pay a visit to this revamped soda fountain. With every scoop of ice cream and sip of phosphate, you’ll not only be treating your taste buds but also celebrating a piece of history that continues to bring people together. For more juicy details about the museum and Elixir, hop onto their website and get ready for an adventure through time!

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Additional Resources

• Kansas City Magazine: KC Museums Soda Fountain
• KSHB: One Tank Trips – Elixir at Kansas City Museum
• KCTV5: Elixir Sets Grand Opening at Kansas City Museum
• Wikipedia: Soda Fountain
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Soda Fountain