September 27, 1817, the final duel was fought between Thomas Hart Benton and Charles Lucas on Bloody Island. The first duel was fought at 30 feet and this one was at 10 feet. This time, Benton scored a direct hit to Lucas’ chest, who said, “Colonel, you have murdered me and I never can forgive you.” He died on the spot. Read more about this in Tales From Missouri and the Heartland.

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.