Randolph County, Missouri Historical Directory
Cairo, Chariton, Clark, Clifton Hill, Higbee, Huntsville, Jacsonville, Moberly (Magic City) Monteau, Prairie, Renick, Roanoke, Salt River, Union, Sugar Creek, Glasgow, Thomas Hill
Welcome
Are you searching for historical records and local history related to Randolph County, Missouri? You’ve come to the right place! Our site is a treasure trove of resources, offering access to a variety of records, documents, and historical data that chronicle the rich past of Randolph County. Whether you’re exploring genealogy, researching local history, or simply curious about the region’s heritage, we provide valuable tools to assist your search. Explore our directory and uncover the stories that shaped Randolph County’s vibrant history!
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Preserving Missouri History
The Randolph County Historical Society (RCHS) of Moberly, Missouri is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Randolph County, Missouri. As an organization, RCHS collects, curates, and shares historical artifacts, documents, and stories from the county’s diverse communities, offering a deeper understanding of its past. Through educational programs, exhibits, and research opportunities, RCHS actively engages the public, helping them connect with the county’s unique heritage.
Randolph County Historical Black Society (RCHBS) focuses on documenting and honoring the significant contributions of Black Americans, often referred to historically as Copper Colored, to Randolph County’s history and culture. The society’s website serves as a dedicated resource, gathering records, oral histories, and memorabilia that reflect the experiences, struggles, and achievements of the Black community in the region. Through outreach, educational initiatives, and collaborations with local organizations, it seeks to elevate awareness of Black history, fostering appreciation for the cultural richness and historical impact of African Americans in Randolph County.
Together, both organizations aim to provide a comprehensive and inclusive historical record of Randolph County’s diverse communities.
The Birth of Moberly's Historical Society:
In a Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat report on March 19, 1963, the Terill House, located on Six Mile Lane south of Moberly, was highlighted. Jack Koester, owner of the Koester Drug Store, suggested in an advertisement that the historic Terill House be restored as a museum and proposed the formation of a county historical society. Inspired by this, Mrs. Mary Bealmer sent a letter and her son James Bealmer’s term paper about the Terill House to Koester. James had written about the house while attending the University of Missouri, tracing its history back to its builder, Judge Julius Miller, who passed away in 1916. Mrs. Bealmer shared her hopes for a Randolph County historical society, noting that she was also working on a family history. While details about the house’s construction were unclear, it was said to have been built by two German boys.
This report emphasized local interest in preserving the historical home and organizing a historical society for Randolph County.
A report from the Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat on October 25, 1966, noted that earmarked funds were allocated to accelerate the formation of the Randolph County Historical Society, signaling growing local support for its establishment.
A document establishing the Moberly Historical and Anniversary Trust was filed with the Circuit Clerk's office on September 30, 1968. The Randolph County Historical Society was declared the beneficiary of this trust, as reported in the Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat. This trust likely aimed to support and preserve the county’s historical heritage.
Moberly, Missouri
Progress Amidst Prejudice: Portraits of African Americans in Missouri, 1880-1920
The Missouri State Archives’ collection, Progress Amidst Prejudice: Portraits of African Americans in Missouri, 1880-1920, features 129 photographs that provide a visual record of African American life in Missouri during the post-Civil War era. These photographs, originally found at a Moberly flea market, made their way to the Missouri State Museum and later became part of an online exhibit. Despite their historical significance, detailed information about the individuals in these black-and-white portraits remains limited.
Cabinet card photography, which became popular in the 1870s, democratized access to photography, allowing people from all social backgrounds, including African Americans during the Jim Crow era, to have their portraits taken. This collection highlights the tension between the progress African Americans were making and the ongoing racial discrimination of the time.
The Randolph County Historical Society is now accepting new memberships. Virgil W. Wilhite, the organization’s treasurer, is handling membership applications at the Mechanics Bank & Trust Co. This follows a meeting at the Municipal Auditorium attended by 35 individuals. During the meeting, 43 memberships were received, with annual dues set at $1. A committee will soon be announced to launch a membership drive, but those interested in joining can mail their dues or visit Mr. Wilhite at the bank.
This announcement was featured in the Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat on Wednesday, January 11, 1967.