Legendary Locals of Sedalia

by Rebecca Carr Imhauser

Overview

George R. Smith borrowed money to buy 337 acres of treeless prairie in 1856, never dreaming the central Missouri town he founded would become the "Queen of the Prairie." He did not foresee his "Sedville," now Sedalia, attracting thousands of tourists through the annual Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival and the Missouri State Fair. Smith did envision another type of visitor—steam engines that streamed through town daily. Smith's passion for the railroad launched Sedalia, and two major railroad shops sustained the city for more than a century. They provided the base for the now flourishing seat of Pettis County. Since Sedalia's official beginning in 1860, countless people have furthered Smith's vision by leaving their distinctive mark on the community. This book celebrates their contributions and shares their stories through more than 225 photographs, many previously unpublished.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781467100403
Publisher:	Arcadia Publishing SC
Publication date:	06/03/2013
Series:	Legendary Locals Series
Pages:	128
Product dimensions:	6.50(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Author Rebecca Carr Imhauser has written seven books and a musical about Sedalia history, as well as thousands of articles for national magazines and newspapers. She is completing a doctorate degree in education. Rebecca is a descendant of one of Pettis County's first settlers, Thomas R. Wasson, who gave land for the county's first permanent seat of government.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments 6

Introduction 7

Chapter 1 Foundations and Beginnings 9

Chapter 2 Education and Inspiration 23

Chapter 3 Businesses and Services 43

Chapter 4 Arts and Entertainment 79

Chapter 5 Service and Freedom 105

Index 126