These old photos of Missouri take us back in time to reveal Show Me State history. Missouri became a state in 1821, and at the time, most of Missouri was still largely unsettled. In 1823, St. Louis became an incorporated city, and by the 1860's St. Louis, became the fourth largest city in the nation. In 1853, Missouri officially Incorporated the "City of Kansas," and the estimated population was about 2,500. Missouri's population continued to swell during the late 1800s as the state became the launching point for westward expansion.
These photos from the State Historical Society of Missouri were taken around the turn of the century and show what life was like all across the Show Me State. While some earlier photographs survive, many of them are portraits or photos of recently constructed buildings that no longer exist today. Here are a few of the interesting examples from the turn of the century that we could find:
The University of Missouri Football Team pose for a photo in 1900.
Children in Boonville showing off their pinwheels for a photo in 1900.
Men and boys at work clearing timber in 1887.
Native Americans parade down the street in Jefferson City to promote a wild west show in 1900.
John William Boone, more commonly known as Blind Boone, was a famous Ragtime musician from Warrensburg, Missouri. This photo shows him being greeted by the people of Clarksburg as he arrives into town for a performance circa 1900.
This photo of Twelfth Street in Kansas City shows the hustle and bustle of the modern city in 1902.
Men and women wait outside the Brown Station Depot for the excursion train to Columbia in 1900.
This photo taken sometime between 1880 - 1900 shows students and teachers in front of Pike College in Bowling Green, Missouri. The college closed in 1922 after a major fire.
Ice Skating in Forest Park is a long standing winter tradition in St. Louis. This photo shows a large group of skaters on an frozen pond in 1900.
Even in 1901 Elephant Rocks were a local attraction that brought many visitors to the area.
What do you think about Missouri life at the turn of the century? Which of these old photos of Missouri were your favorite? Let us know in the comments. Planning to visit and need somewhere to stay? Check out all the offerings from our friends at VRBO. Need more ideas about cool stuff to do in Missouri while you're here? Check out all the coolest things to do in Missouri in the summer.
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