July 16th This Day in Missouri

On July 16, the following notable historical events related to Missouri have been recorded:

• 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, traveling along the Missouri River, was near present-day Peru, Nebraska, across from Missouri’s Holt County, on or around July 16. They recorded observations of the river’s conditions and local Native American tribes, contributing to their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1854: Missouri’s role in the “Bleeding Kansas” conflict intensified. On or around July 16, pro-slavery “Border Ruffians” from Missouri were actively crossing into Kansas Territory to influence local elections, escalating violence over the slavery issue.
• 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a hotbed of conflict. On July 16, Union forces under General Nathaniel Lyon were engaged in minor skirmishes in southwest Missouri, particularly near Springfield, as they prepared for the upcoming Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
• 1879: The Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City, one of the oldest prisons west of the Mississippi, underwent significant expansions around July 16, reflecting the state’s efforts to address growing incarceration needs.
• 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with July 16 featuring athletic competitions, including early Olympic events, showcasing Missouri’s prominence on the international stage.