The Battle of Carthage is Fought: July 5, 1861

The Battle of Carthage was fought and the Confederates had their first victory.


The Hannibal Bridge in Kansas City Opens: July 3, 1869

The Burlington Bridge at Kansas City, also called the Hannibal Bridge, was completed. It was the first bridge ever built across the Missouri River.


Astronaut Linda M. Godwin is Born in Cape Girardeau: July 2, 1952

Astronaut Linda M. Godwin was born in Cape Girardeau on this date. She grew up in Jackson, Missouri and graduated from Jackson High School in 1970.


Another Duel is Fought on Bloody Island: June 30, 1823

On this date in history, Missouri's first secretary of state, Joshua Barton, was killed in a duel.


Bison on the Plains

Lewis & Clark Spot Bison Near Kansas City: June 28, 1804

The Corps of Discovery sighted bison for the first time during their journey on this date.


George Sibley Begins Surveying the Santa Fe Trail: June 27, 1825

George Sibley and his party departed from St. Charles on this day to survey what would become the Santa Fe Trail.


William Lear

Inventor William Lear is Born Near Hannibal: June 26, 1902

William Powell Lear was born on this date near Hannibal.