Ground broke on our new campus library construction in 1997, with its namesake present to dedicate the building named in his honor. A staple of the university and the state of Missouri, James C. Kirkpatrick, or “Jimmy K,” was born on June 15, 1905 in Braymer, MO.
He graduated from what was then Central Missouri State University in 1929 with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. He returned in 1947 as a member of the Board of Regents, where he served for 12 years. He was awarded the 4th-ever honorary doctorate in Central’s history and honored as its first Distinguished University Fellow.
Mr. Kirkpatrick served as Missouri’s longest-serving Secretary of State from 1965-1985, during which time he gathered more popular votes (8,462,4690) than any other politician in the history of the state.
The second floor of the library is home to JCK’s historic green-hued office, a replica of his statehouse and Ward Edwards offices, with memorabilia and personal effects donated to the University by his family. The office is a part of the library’s Special Collections and is typically open by appointment only.
We celebrate Mr. Kirkpatrick’s legacy each year on Kirkpatrick Day by opening his office for students, faculty, staff, and members of the public to see. This year, join us at the library on Monday, March 17, 2025 from 11:00am - 1:00pm for historical tours of the JCK office, celebratory cake, cookies, and punch, and crafts and activities provided by Mo’s Activities Council.
Learn more about JCK’s life and legacy from DLII’s video tribute and tour the JCK Office from our virtual library tour or join us for live tours on March 17.
Post contribution by Sara Evans
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