Missouri History

As long as humans have inhabited Missouri, they have held certain places sacred. These unique spaces draw people to them for numerous reasons—some have become popular photo-ops or school field trips, while others are places of worship.

Bob Ford was the man who killed Jesse James, who is considered one of America’s most famous bandits. The killing of Jesse James was considered a cowardly act and Bob Ford’s actions followed him for the rest of his days.

Based on eyewitness accounts and geological evidence, seismologists estimate the New Madrid earthquake to have been 8.0 on today’s Richter scale. The shock waves were felt from the East Coast to the Rocky Mountains, and from southern Canada to northern Mexico.

A recent renovation brings technology to the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. The new interactive touch tables engage adults and children and help spark the desire to learn more about the history of WWI. The exhibit featuring the importance of mules and other animals is not to be missed.

Any outdoor or nature enthusiast will want to check out Harry S. Truman State Park. This 1,440-acre park is one of Missouri’s finest reservoir-based state parks. There is fishing, boating, camping, and hiking galore. And trails wind through the woods and out to rocky overlooks. Make a plan to visit today!

Bothwell Lodge sits atop a bluff near Sedalia. The estate is a stunning stone structure with a mountain of history. You can tour the lodge and learn about the owner John Homer Bothwell. Take a hike on the Stoneyridge Trail and stop for a picnic along the way.

The Trail of Tears State Park is a 3,400-acre park with a superb preserve of an original Mississippi River landscape. It is also a sober reminder of the intolerance of a young country and a memorial to a resilient people who persevered.

Boone’s Lick State Historic Site is off the beaten track but well worth the trip to visit. We take salt for granted but there was a time that salt was made from boiling down the briny water and then it was shipped to settlements. Learn about salt production at this 50 acre site.

Nathan Boone, son of the famous pioneer, Daniel Boone, and family moved to the homestead in Ash Grove from their estate in St. Charles County. The site is now a State Historic Site and well worth a visit. His cabin, home furnishngs and the gardens are available to tour.

The enduring military publication Stars and Stripes was born in Bloomfield amid the destruction of the Civil War. Visit the Stars and Stripes Museum Library to see the original newspaper, a Huey helicopter, and many other exhibits.