The Cassville Republican reported high hopes for a Barry County man who was establishing a skunk farm near Madry, MO. This writer wondered why anyone would operate a skunk farm. It turns out that many people used to think skunks were good pets. Farmers purchased them to keep vermin from their grain and the pelts were sold as American Sable. There is still at least one very modern skunk farm raising de-scented pets for sale.

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.

Photo by  Bryan Padron on Unsplash.