Friends of the James Farm
The Friends of the James Farm (FOTJF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the James Farm Historical Site—the birthplace of Jesse James—owned and operated by Clay County, Missouri.
Our mission is to support, preserve, and share the history of the James Farm and its remarkable place in American folklore. Through public programs, educational events, and community engagement, we help visitors understand the life and times of Jesse James, his family, and his associates.
We also encourage the study and appreciation of the broader historical context that shaped their lives, including:
The history of the 1800s
The Civil War and the Missouri Border War
The post-war activities of Jesse and Frank James
The Friends of the James Farm exist to keep this history alive—ensuring that future generations can explore, question, and connect with one of the most colorful and complex periods in American history.
The James Farm Journal
The James Farm Journal is the Friends of the James Farm newsletter, created to keep members and supporters in the loop on what’s happening at the Jesse James Birthplace and Museum in Kearney, Missouri. It covers Farm updates, preservation projects, fundraising efforts, upcoming events, and occasional deep dives into Jesse James history, blending practical news with storytelling to keep the Farm’s past and present connected.
Upcoming Events
James Gang Rye Launch Party
Saturday, March 7 | 1:00–4:00 PM
West Bottoms Whiskey
1321 W 13th St HT
Kansas City, MO 64102
Step into the outlaw era for the official release of James Gang Rye, a 100-proof whiskey created in collaboration with West Bottoms Whiskey Co. and the Friends of the Jesse James Farm. This free launch party invites guests to celebrate the legacy of Jesse James and the James Gang with an immersive, old-west atmosphere.
The event will feature a special guest appearance from a Frank James reenactor, and attendees are encouraged to dress in their favorite outlaw-era attire—cowboy hats, boots, and western wear welcome. Drinks will be available for purchase, and bottles of James Gang Rye will be available for pickup, with pre-sale strongly encouraged. A limited number of paid tickets will also be offered for a guided distillery tour accompanied by the reenactor.
Crafted to reflect the bold, spice-forward character of the whiskey the James Gang might have known, James Gang Rye opens with smooth sweetness and notes of caramel, spice, and oak before finishing with a slow-burning 100-proof heat.
A portion of the proceeds from every bottle sold directly supports the Friends of the Jesse James Farm and its mission to preserve and share this important piece of Missouri history.
Pre-sale bottles: Pre-Order James Gang Rye - West Bottoms Whiskey Co.
Distillery tour tickets: James Gang Rye Distillery Tour and Tasting
Be sure to check out our Events page for a list of upcoming events. These range from gun shoots, special talks and lectures, get-togethers, and more.
