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

• 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition was near present-day Omaha, Nebraska, across from Missouri’s Atchison County, on or around August 16. They continued documenting the region’s wildlife and interactions with Native American tribes, advancing their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1838: During the Mormon War in Missouri, tensions escalated further. On or around August 16, non-Mormon vigilantes in Daviess and Carroll Counties intensified their campaign against Mormon settlers, with increased skirmishes contributing to the conflict that led to the Mormon expulsion order later in 1838.
• 1861: During the Civil War, the aftermath of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek (August 10) continued in Missouri. On August 16, Union forces were retreating and regrouping after their defeat near Springfield, while Confederate forces solidified their control in southwest Missouri, highlighting the state’s volatile role in the conflict.
• 1873: The Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railway (Katy Railroad) expanded its network through southwest Missouri around August 16, connecting Springfield to other regions and fostering economic growth in the state.
• 1904: The St. Louis World’s Fair, or Louisiana Purchase Exposition, was ongoing, with August 16 featuring international trade exhibits and cultural performances, reinforcing Missouri’s prominence as a global hub.
• 1967: The St. Louis Cardinals played a significant game against the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium on August 16, with Bob Gibson pitching a shutout and Orlando Cepeda hitting a key home run, contributing to their World Series-winning season and reinforcing Missouri’s baseball legacy.