On August 3, the following notable historical events related to Missouri have been recorded:
- 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition was near present-day Council Bluffs, Iowa, across from Missouri’s Atchison County, on or around August 3. They held a significant council with Otoe and Missouri tribes, marking one of the first formal diplomatic meetings with Native Americans during their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
- 1838: During the Mormon War in Missouri, tensions escalated. On or around August 3, the aftermath of the Gallatin Election Day Battle (August 2) saw increased hostility in Daviess County, with non-Mormon vigilantes intensifying efforts against Mormon settlers, contributing to the conflict that led to the Mormon expulsion order later in 1838.
- 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a battleground. On August 3, 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, a major upcoming engagement.
- 1870: The St. Louis, Iron Mountain, and Southern Railway expanded its network through southeast Missouri around August 3, improving transportation to areas like Poplar Bluff and fostering economic growth in the region.
- 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with August 3 featuring international cultural exhibits and early Olympic events, reinforcing Missouri’s prominence as a global hub.
- 1964: The St. Louis Cardinals played a notable game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Busch Stadium on August 3, with Lou Brock stealing two bases and contributing to a Cardinals victory, highlighting Missouri’s baseball legacy.