Independence is a city located in the western half of Missouri. It is the fourth largest city in the state, and has a total population of 110,440 according to the 2008 census data. The city was settled and founded in 1827, and soon became a major frontier town. Independence's strategic location in the convergence of the Kansas and Missouri River made it a jumping-off point for a large variety of trade, and as the start of the Oregon Trail. It is one of two county seats of Jackson County, and is home to the denominational headquarters of many Latter Day Saint groups. Due to its long history, Independence has several museums featuring the town and its part in the history of the nation. The National Frontier Trails Museum is a center dedicated to the history of the area and the settlement of the West. The Leila's Hair Museum, believed to be the only one of it's kind, houses an assortment of Victorian-era hair jewelry and wreaths. It features over 1,500 pieces of artwork and/or jewelry composed of human hair in some capacity. The 1859 Jail, Marsha's Home and Museum now exhibits how the local marshall and his family lived next to the jail, which had dungeon-like cells that housed thousands of prisoners during the bloodiest period of the County's history. To learn more, check out our business directory.Independence is extremely proud of the city's heritage, and holds an annual Labor Day festival that celebrates just that. It is also well known for the Vaile Strawberry Festival, held every first Saturday of June. The Missouri yellowpages has more information on the city and state.