November 18, 1818

A group of citizens calling themselves the Smithton Company purchased from the government the land which is now Columbia, MO.

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.

AdobeStock photo