By Leslie Collins
Northeast News
January 25, 2012

The Kansas City Museum is telling its history a little differently this year.

To celebrate the birthday of Loula Long Combs, daughter of lumber baron Robert A. Long, the Friends of the Kansas City Museum have commissioned Paul Mesner Puppets to tell “The Long Story of Corinthian Hall” at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at the Plaza Branch Library.

“It’s important to tell the history of the Long family because they were such an integral part in Kansas City’s history and development,” Kansas City Museum Community Relations Specialist Andrew Mouzin said.

Long operated a thriving lumber company, Long-Bell Lumber Company, which built the first skyscraper in Kansas City. In addition, Long played an integral role in developing the Liberty Memorial, encouraged urban development and built the family mansion, Corinithian Hall, along Gladstone Boulevard.

Paul Mesner’s “eccentric” puppets will give the audience an inside look at the construction of Corinthian Hall and help attendees learn more about Kansas City’s history, including Loula and her famous hats.

“Paul Mesner Puppets and their staff do a fantastic job of really making history come alive,” Mouzin said.

Cake and punch, and arts and crafts will also be available during the event at the Plaza Branch, 4801 Main Street, Kansas City, Mo.