Arts & Culture
A Community of Creativty
Warrensburg is home to a vibrant and thriving community of visual and performing artists, through which the creativity of our residents is not only celebrated, but also displayed for all to enjoy. Marvel in the public artworks — such as sculptures and murals — across the city, including Downtown and on the UCM campus. Sing along or dance the night away at concerts and open-mics or lose yourself in live theater productions. Want to express yourself? Our local art organizations offer classes and workshops that invite all to discover their own creativity through music, painting, or writing. See how we celebrate the arts in Warrensburg and join the celebration yourself.
Old Drum Statue
300 N Holden Street
Warrensburg, MO 64093
When you visit Warrensburg, you’ll want to take a selfie with our famous four-legged friend Old Drum! While at the Old Drum statue, take a few minutes and read about the famous trial from which the phrase “Man’s Best Friend” was spoken in the closing speech by Senator George Graham Vest in the “Tribute to a Dog.” The statue is located in Warrensburg’s historic downtown on the lawn of the current Johnson County Courthouse.
Original Johnson County Courthouse
302 N Main Street
Warrensburg, MO 64093
660-747-6480
The Johnson County Historical Society is a non-profit organization which maintains the Mary Miller Smiser Heritage Library & Museum and the historic buildings on the Old Courthouse Square. The archives of original county records dating from 1834 are housed in the library. The library and museum provide a premiere research facility specializing in family and local history.
One of the many buildings on the JCHS complex is the Old Courthouse (1838 to 1871). It still stands, carefully restored, in its original location on Main Street. The period courtroom and upstairs offices pay tribute to the brave pioneers who built it. The Trial of Old Drum, where George Graham Vest’s Eulogy on the Dog was delivered, took place in the courthouse in 1870. The complex is open 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday or by appointment. For guided tours and group tours, please contact the JCHS curator.
Additional Arts & Culture in the Burg
Download the Burg Arts Brochure for more information on artistic sites around Warrensburg!