Enoch Herbert Crowder is Born: April 11, 1859

Enoch Herbert Crowder was born  in Edinburg, Missouri, on this date in 1859. He graduated from Grand River college at age 16 and taught at local schools before enrolling in West Point Military Academy, which he graduated from in 1881. After studying law and becoming licensed to practice while stationed in Texas, Crowder was eventually transferred to St. Louis, then appointed as professor of military science at the University of Missouri Columbia.

During his professorship, Crowder founded the first ROTC cadet band in the United States. The band played at the football game against Kansas in the 1885 season, and their performance went over so well that they were asked to return to each of the next season’s games. Ultimately the band would open its membership to the general student population, and it now carries on a proud tradition as Marching Mizzou. Over its nearly 140 year history the band has performed in the inaugural parade George W. Bush, the Macy’s Day Parade, and has traveled to other countries for performances on multiple occasions.

Crowder would officially receive his law degree from the University of Missouri in 1886. He went on to serve a prestigious career in the army, eventually attaining the rank of Major General and serving as Judge Advocate General of the Army for twelve years. He eventually oversaw the draft during World War 1 and served as ambassador to Cuba under Calvin Coolidge. He passed away in 1932 and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Crowder State Park in Grundy County, Camp Crowder near Neosho, and Crowder Hall on the University of Missouri Columbia campus all bear the general’s name.