Kansas City or Bust: The Methodist Plan to Relocate Baker University, 1927-1939

In 1931, a survey commission authorized by the Methodist Episcopal Church argued that Baker University, an institution located in the small Kansas town of Baldwin City, should relocate to Kansas City. The commission recommended relocation because of a merger with Missouri Wesleyan College, competition by surrounding schools, the Social Creed, and the Great Depression. Despite these compelling arguments for relocation from a prominent authority, Baker University leadership chose to remain in Baldwin City for numerous reasons. This incident is an example of local institutional leaders standing firm against higher church authorities and maintaining loyalty to their community.