The Liberty Memorial and its eternal flame were built to honor those who served in the Great War. Harold Van Buren Magonigle, the Memorial’s architect, envisioned the monument as “a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.”

The flame has honored Americans who fought in World War I since the Liberty Memorial’s dedication on November 11, 1926. After World War I, as men and women have continued to serve in defense of our country, the flame has evolved to become a symbol for all American veterans.

In 2008 an unexpected budget shortfall forced the Museum to extinguish the flame. After an article in The Kansas City Star highlighted the funding issue and efforts by community activists to raise awareness, “Save the Flame” was created. The grassroots campaign caught the attention of Pioneer Services, a Kansas City-based company, who helped lead the 2008 fundraising effort. The “Save the Flame” campaign raised $68,000 in four weeks and ensured the flame would continue to burn for the next year.

The annual cost of the flame is approximately $65,000. The iconic flame is produced by a boiler system that generates steam coupled with lights which together create the effect of a flame. Museum officials are working toward a more cost effective way to generate the flame, but until then continue to utilize the original system.

You Can Help!

The Museum needs your help to make sure the flame continues to burn. Donations of any amount are welcome. Tax-deductible contributions can be made by clicking the donation button on this page, by visiting the Museum, or by sending a check to 100 W. 26th St., Kansas City, MO 64108. Checks should be made out to “National World War I Museum” with “Save the Flame” in the memo line.

Contributions can also be made through the Museum’s “Save the Flame” Fund at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation.