The History of Milton’s Tap Room

Kansas City, Missouri

Milton’s Tap Room in Kansas City was one of the most famed Jazz clubs of the 20th century.

Founded by the larger-than-life figure Milton Morris, MILTON’S was first founded in 1934, and existed until after Morris’ passing in 1983. Everyone who was anyone went to Milton’s; fans could rub shoulders with musical icons like Count Basie and Charlie Parker. In a city that pioneered Jazz, Milton’s shined as a place where talented people could create exciting new music.

Basie credited Milton’s with keeping him employed and in the music business, both when times were tough and good. Pee Wee Hunt paid tribute to the popular club in his recording “Meet Me at Milton’s.” The legendary jazz vinyl record collection that Milton kept at the club was nearly as famous as the venue itself.

Milton’s Tap Room stood at 32nd and Main Street for many years. The club’s iconic neon sign bragged “The Right Drink at the Right Price” and “No 20% Tax”. The sign was a KC landmark for some three decades, and now resides in the National Jazz Museum at 18th and Vine in KC. 

An iconic photo of Milton’s hinted at the rambunctious shenanigans that took place inside the jazz club’s doors — a glamorous looking nude woman in a boa and high heels, sashays into the club from a limousine while Milton casually leans against the club’s brick wall, smoking a pipe.

Milton ran for governor of Missouri some five times on a platform of legalized gambling/horse racing & keeping cabarets open later. After Morris’ passing, the club prominently kept his prosthetic leg over the bar.

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