On July 19, the following notable historical events related to Missouri have been recorded:
- 1804: The Lewis and Clark Expedition was navigating the Missouri River, near present-day Otoe County, Nebraska, across from Missouri’s Atchison County, on or around July 19. They documented the region’s geography, wildlife, and interactions with Native American tribes, advancing their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase.
- 1838: During the Mormon War in Missouri, tensions continued to escalate. On or around July 19, non-Mormon vigilantes in Daviess County increased harassment of Mormon settlers, contributing to the growing conflict that led to the state’s expulsion order later in 1838.
- 1861: During the Civil War, Missouri remained a hotbed of conflict. On July 19, Union forces under General Nathaniel Lyon were engaged in minor skirmishes in southwest Missouri, particularly near Springfield, as they prepared for the Battle of Wilson’s Creek.
- 1870: The St. Louis, Iron Mountain, and Southern Railway expanded its operations through southeast Missouri around July 19, 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 July 19 featuring agricultural exhibits and international cultural performances, reinforcing Missouri’s prominence as a global hub.