Explore Kansas City, the City of Fountains
Joy of the Waters
Experience the Spirit of Joy in Motion
Step into the Aquila Room of the Nelson-Atkins Building and discover Harriet Whitney Frishmuth’s masterpiece, Joy of the Waters.
This captivating fountain sculpture, depicting a young woman dancing with pure joy, is a celebration of youth and vitality. With its elegant design and water elements, it’s a timeless work that transports you into a serene moment.
Our History
The City of Fountains Foundation (COFF) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1973 to promote and advocate for public fountains, sculptures and monuments in the Kansas City area. The Foundation assists in the development of public fountain and sculpture projects; and raises funds and holds endowments to help maintain, acquire, construct, relocate and conserve these landmarks for which Kansas City is famous.
Foundation News & Events
Exciting Changes Coming in 2025
A Year of Growth, Art, and Celebration Big things are happening in 2025 for The…
Holiday Gifts Inspired by Kansas City’s Fountains
As you prepare for the holidays, make your gift-giving more meaningful with items that celebrate…
A Holiday Keepsake That Honors Kansas City’s Iconic Fountains
As the holiday season approaches, we look for ways to celebrate traditions, share meaningful gifts,…
Shop in Our Online Store
Add a touch of Kansas City’s fountain heritage to your home with items from our exclusive store collection. Each purchase is a donation to ‘Keep our Fountains Flowing’ directly supporting the maintenance and beauty of these iconic landmarks. Shop today and help protect the fountains that define our city.
Sculptures & Monuments
Patient Persistence
A Tribute to Determination and Heritage
Discover the inspiring sculpture, Patient Persistence, at the entrance of the Estates of Iron Horse. This captivating art piece features a galloping bronze stallion in front of a massive engraved concrete wall depicting a historic steam engine. With billowing steam, clouds of dust, and intricate details like the engineer’s red shirt and the number 1907, this sculpture celebrates perseverance and determination.
A gift from Don and Faith Bell to the people of Leawood, Patient Persistence symbolizes their seven-year journey to create a thriving golf course community.
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Fountain City Wheat by KC Bier Co
To support the preservation of Kansas City’s fountains, KC Bier Co will donate a portion of the bier’s proceeds to the City of Fountains Foundation.
The special packaging for Fountain City Wheat features four fountains from around the Kansas City area, as well as a map of Kansas City’s fountains. Vanguard Packaging collaborated on the package production, and graciously donated part of the cost of materials in support of the fundraiser.
Fountain City Wheat is available at Kansas City Metro area and Lawrence, Kansas retail locations in 6-packs and on draught while supplies last.
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Fountain Partners
Agenda:USA
KC Bier Co.
Helen S. Boylan Foundation
Mason L. Dean Testamentary Foundation
Estelle S. and Robert A. Long Ellis Foundation
Alex Hamil
Roy Inman
Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation
The Kansas City Royals
Made in Kansas City
Rally House
Seen Merch
Irma Starr
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Contact Us
ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 8912
Kansas City, MO
64114
PHONE:
816-842-2299