July 14th This Day in Missouri

All day

On July 14, the following notable historical events related to Missouri have been recorded:

  • 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition was traveling along the Missouri River, near present-day Brownville, Nebraska, just across from Missouri’s Nemaha County, on or around July 14. They documented the region’s geography and interactions with Native American tribes, contributing to their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
  • 1854: Missouri’s involvement in the “Bleeding Kansas” conflict grew. On or around July 14, pro-slavery Missourians, known as “Border Ruffians,” held rallies in western Missouri to influence Kansas Territory’s slavery status, escalating tensions that led to violent clashes.
  • 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a battleground. On July 14, Union forces under General Nathaniel Lyon were active in southwest Missouri, engaging in minor skirmishes near Springfield as they prepared for the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
  • 1881: The St. Louis Streetcar Strike began around July 14, with workers protesting low wages and poor conditions. The strike disrupted transportation in the city, highlighting Missouri’s early labor movement struggles.
  • 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with July 14 showcasing international music performances and agricultural exhibits, reinforcing Missouri’s cultural and economic prominence.