The Story of Harry Truman’s (Failed) Haberdashery in KC

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In 1919, Harry S. Truman, recently returned from service in World War I, decided to start a business in Kansas City with Eddie Jacobson, a fellow veteran. On November 28, 1919, they opened Truman & Jacobson, a men’s clothing store located at 104 West 12th Street, across from the well-known Muehlebach Hotel.

The haberdashery was located on the ground floor of the Glennon Hotel, which was demolished in 1930 to make way for the Hotel Phillips. The store specialized in men’s accessories such as shirts, belts, gloves, and hats.

Truman handled the bookkeeping and sales, while Jacobson used his background in the clothing business to manage inventory.

Initially, the business performed well, benefiting from its central location and the partners' strong connections, particularly among veterans of their former military unit. However, in the early 1920s, the United States experienced an economic downturn marked by deflation and unemployment.

The recession severely impacted small businesses, including Truman & Jacobson, forcing them to close in September 1922.

The closure left both Truman and Jacobson in significant debt. Jacobson declared bankruptcy in 1925, but Truman chose not to, instead committing to repay his debts over time. This decision reflected Truman's strong sense of responsibility and integrity.

Truman’s experience with financial hardship and running a business influenced his later decisions as a public servant. As president, he often emphasized fiscal responsibility and showed an understanding of how economic policies affected ordinary Americans.

Furthermore, his relationship with his hometown friend would go on to have a global impact, as Jacobson had a significant influence on Truman’s handling of Israel. For that story, I highly suggest reading this fascinating article from Shirley Christian / JCHS.

The challenges Truman faced at the haberdashery with Eddie Jacobson helped shape his approach to leadership and decision-making, leaving a lasting impact on his career in public service and ultimately the world.

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This Week in the KC Yesterday Scavenger Hunt

KC Star Building

The 1911 Crossroads building showcases a distinctive Italian Villa style, and was designed by Jarvis Hunt, the acclaimed architect behind Kansas City's Union Station.

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Pla-Mor Ballroom

This impressive venue at 31st & Main was inspired by renowned ballrooms in New York, Detroit, and Chicago, establishing itself as one of the largest indoor entertainment complexes in America.

This Week's Featured Home

1239 W 63rd St, Kansas City, MO 64113​
Built in 1930 · $1,500,000
Listing/Photos Courtesy - Sandy McCray

Step into timeless elegance with this impeccably maintained and thoughtfully updated Tudor home on 63rd Street, located in the prestigious Ward Parkway corridor. Built in 1930, this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home spans approximately 4,000 square feet, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury.

The spacious interior boasts gracious formal living and dining rooms, an inviting eat-in kitchen with a cozy breakfast room, and beautifully updated bathrooms and kitchen. Recent upgrades include a newly constructed garage and a large mudroom, adding both convenience and style.

Thanks for reading, Reader!

-Joe

ps: a few very bored husbands waiting at Metcalf South in Overland Park in the 1970's...

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