July 23rd This Day in Missouri

On July 23, 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 Otoe County, Nebraska, across from Missouri’s Atchison County, on or around July 23. They continued their council with Otoe and Missouri tribes, documenting cultural exchanges and the region’s resources, advancing their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1838: During the Mormon War in Missouri, tensions escalated further. On or around July 23, non-Mormon residents in Daviess County organized militias to confront Mormon settlers, intensifying conflicts that contributed to the eventual expulsion of Mormons from Missouri later in 1838.
• 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a hotbed of conflict. On July 23, Union forces under General Nathaniel Lyon engaged in minor skirmishes in southwest Missouri near Springfield, part of ongoing preparations for the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
• 1876: The St. Louis Agricultural and Mechanical Fair was in its planning stages around July 23, preparing for its annual event in the fall. This fair showcased Missouri’s agricultural innovations and economic growth.
• 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with July 23 featuring international industrial exhibits and cultural demonstrations, reinforcing Missouri’s prominence as a global hub.
• 1962: The St. Louis Cardinals played a notable game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium, with Bob Gibson pitching a shutout, contributing to the team’s strong season and Missouri’s baseball legacy.