Super Flea
Super Flea is a vibrant flea market located in the historic Montgomery Ward building in Kansas City. Originally constructed in 1914, this iconic structure was once the largest building west of the Mississippi River, serving as a distribution center and department store designed by architect John McKecknie. The building played a pivotal role in Kansas City’s development as a distribution hub due to its strategic location within the railroad network and local industry. After closing in the late 20th century, it was acquired by entrepreneur Skip Sleyster in 1993 and transformed into Super Flea. Following extensive renovations and a grand reopening in March 2023, it now hosts a diverse array of vendors and exhibits, blending historic preservation with contemporary commerce. The market features unique relics from its past, including a dedicated “Vintage Ward’s” exhibit, and offers tours highlighting its architectural and historical significance, making it a landmark of Kansas City’s commercial heritage.
News Summary
Kansas City celebrates the reopening of the historic Montgomery Ward building, now transformed into Super Flea. After extensive renovations, this 2.2 million square foot marketplace pays homage to its rich commercial history while attracting contemporary shoppers. Originally built in 1914, the structure has served various purposes and now showcases a “Vintage Ward’s” exhibit. With organized tours available, guests can explore significant historical features, solidifying the building’s role as a key landmark in the city.
Kansas City is witnessing a significant transformation as the historic Montgomery Ward building reopens as Super Flea after extensive renovations. Covering an impressive 2.2 million square feet, the building is not only a marketplace but a testament to the rich history of commerce in the area.
Originally constructed in 1914, this impressive structure was the largest building west of the Mississippi River at the time. It initially functioned as a distribution center and department store, characterized by its complex electrical wiring and piping, which facilitated its operations. The Montgomery Ward building, part of a trio of locations in Kansas City, was strategically placed to attract a growing customer base, with nearby streetcars rerouted to enhance accessibility for shoppers and those seeking employment.
Kansas City emerged as a critical distribution hub in the early to mid-1900s due to its central location within the railroad network and a robust livestock industry. Architect John McKecknie designed the building with a focus on reinforced concrete, creating a blend of utilitarian functionality and captivating design elements. The original layout included varied amenities, such as a post office, library, small hospital, and social gathering spaces accommodating up to 3,000 employees, making it an essential place of work and community during its prime.
A retail store added in 1928 ensured that the location remained relevant and accessible via streetcar transport. However, changing shopping trends in the late 1980s contributed to Montgomery Ward’s eventual closure, aligning with a broader decline in similar retail sectors.
In 1993, entrepreneur Skip Sleyster acquired the building and opened Super Flea, which has recently undergone significant renovations including a grand reopening in March 2023. This revival not only protects the historical significance of the structure but also places it back on the map for contemporary shoppers. Super Flea is currently curating a special “Vintage Ward’s” exhibit featuring relics from the original Montgomery Ward, including unique items like an old pancake maker, vintage filmmaking gear, toys, and collectible bottles.
Visitor engagement is encouraged through organized tours of the building, where guests can explore historically significant features such as an intact boiler room dating back to the early 1900s. The architectural contributions of McKecknie extend beyond this building, as he is also responsible for other notable landmarks in Kansas City, including the Gloyd Building and Grand Avenue Temple, further cementing his impact on the city’s skyline.
The Montgomery Ward building has undergone remarkable adaptation from its original mail-order business model to its current role as a vibrant flea market venue. Despite the decline of traditional retail spaces, Super Flea stands as a successful example of revitalization, merging the historical essence of the past with contemporary consumer experiences.
As this site continues to evolve, it remains a significant historic landmark in Kansas City, showcasing both its architectural beauty and the city’s rich commercial heritage.
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