Mountain man, Jim Bridger was born.  He made many discoveries in the west and established Fort Bridger which was an extremely important outpost for westward pioneers.  Prior to his adventures he had been a farmer near present day Kansas City.

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.