In the midst the Civil War, Henry W. Halleck assumed command of the Union forces in Missouri and the West. Known derogatorily as “Old Brains,” he was later replaced by General Ulysses S. Grant.
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.
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September 23, 1861
Jayhawks crossed the border and sacked Osceola on this day. The town of 3,000 people was plundered and burned to the ground, and nine local citizens were executed.
July 5, 1861
The Battle of Carthage was fought and the Confederates had their first victory.
November 9, 1802
Elijah Lovejoy was born on this date. Lovejoy was a crusading newspaper publisher, who got his start in St. Louis, and he was abolitionist who was killed when a mob came to break up his press in Alton, Illinois.