July 31st This Day in Missouri

On July 31, the following notable historical events related to Missouri have been recorded:

• 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, navigating the Missouri River, was near present-day Blair, Nebraska, across from Missouri’s Atchison County, on or around July 31. They continued their council with Otoe and Missouri tribes, documenting the region’s resources and diplomatic exchanges, advancing their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1838: During the Mormon War in Missouri, conflicts escalated significantly. On or around July 31, non-Mormon residents in Daviess County held meetings to organize against Mormon settlers, with violent skirmishes occurring, contributing to the state’s expulsion order against Mormons later in 1838.
• 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a hotbed of conflict. On July 31, Union forces under General Nathaniel Lyon were engaged in minor skirmishes in southwest Missouri near Springfield, as they finalized preparations for the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
• 1876: The St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch brewery achieved a milestone around July 31 by expanding its refrigerated railcar system, enabling wider distribution of Budweiser and solidifying Missouri’s role in the national brewing industry.
• 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with July 31 featuring international scientific exhibits and cultural performances, reinforcing Missouri’s prominence as a global hub.
• 1970: The St. Louis Cardinals played a notable game against the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium, with Lou Brock stealing three bases, contributing to a Cardinals victory and highlighting Missouri’s baseball legacy.