This was the night of the “Great Star Shower of 1833.” It was said to be so bright that a newspaper could be read on the street. One writer says, “For nearly four hours the sky was literally ablaze.” Many thought the end of the world had come.

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.