The city of Kennett was attempting an alligator roundup. Two years earlier a traveling salesman sold about fifty gators in the town and the “pets” were growing larger and more dangerous.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.