In 1870, a group of twenty women met at a church in Kansas City with the goal of helping Civil War orphans and widows. Prominent Kansas City families such as Gillis, Troost, Loose, Swope and Armour were among the group’s founders.
Incorporated as the Women’s Christian Association, the group received a $25,000 donation from Mrs. Simeon Brooks Armour in 1895. Designated toward the construction of a home for the elderly, the gift funded the first retirement home which opened in 1905. In 1928, a need for more space prompted the move to 81st and Wornall. The original senior living structure at this location is the present day Legacy House assisted living facility.
Continually inspired by this historic tradition of care for seniors, Armour Oaks Senior Living Community remains a not-for-profit division of the Women's Christian Association to this day.
