Welcome to our Directory. This website serves as an online resource center dedicated to connecting you with valuable information about historical societies in Randolph County, Missouri. Whether you are researching local history, genealogy, or cultural heritage, our directory provides easy access to a wealth of resources to support your search. Explore links to historical records, organizations, and educational materials relevant to Randolph County’s past and its diverse communities.
About Randolph County Historical Society of Moberly
The Randolph County Historical Society (RCHS) is a non-profit organization based in Moberly, Missouri, focused on preserving and promoting the rich historical legacy of Randolph County and the surrounding regions. Established in 1949, RCHS is housed in the historic Moberly Public Library building, which was originally built in 1902 and later renovated in 1984 to serve as a museum.
The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia, covering various eras of the county’s history, from Native American settlements to the modern day. Key exhibits include displays on the Civil War era, the Moberly Railroad Station, the Moberly Meteorite, and the development of education in the region. RCHS also provides resources for genealogy research, offering access to historical documents and records.
Open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, RCHS welcomes visitors to explore the museum free of charge. The society also hosts a range of educational events and activities, including lectures, historical tours, and a Christmas open house, aiming to engage the community and foster a deeper appreciation for local history.
RCHS continues to be a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and anyone interested in the historical roots of Missouri and its people.
About Randolph County Historical Black Society of Moberly
The Randolph County Historical Black Society (RCHBS) is dedicated to documenting and honoring the significant contributions of Black Americans, historically referred to as Copper Colored, to the rich history and culture of Randolph County, Missouri. Established in 2023 by Moberly descendant T’Malkia Zuri (Tonya Reed), the great-granddaughter of George and Katie Washington, the society serves as a comprehensive online resource for exploring and preserving the Black heritage of the region.
RCHBS focuses on gathering and preserving historical records, oral histories, and memorabilia that reflect the experiences, challenges, and achievements of Black Americans in Randolph County. Our mission is to elevate awareness of the cultural richness and historical impact of Black Americans through historical newspapers and collaboration with local organizations such as the Randolph County Historical Society.
RCHBS provides a genealogy search database containing records of over 2,000 Black Americans who lived, resided, or passed away in Randolph County. Each record has been meticulously reviewed by certified genealogist T’Malkia Zuri, offering a valuable resource for families, researchers, and historians alike.
Our goal is to ensure that the legacy of Randolph County’s Black community is preserved for future generations, fostering a deeper understanding of its vital role in shaping the history and culture of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
RCHS is located in the former Moberly Public Library building, constructed in 1902 and renovated to serve as a museum in Moberly, Missouri.
The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, with free admission. Specific hours of operation may vary, so it’s recommended to check ahead for holiday or seasonal hours.
The museum hosts a wide range of exhibits, including collections about the Moberly Meteorite, Civil War history, the Moberly Railroad Station, and the history of education in Randolph County.
Yes, RCHS has a research genealogy section where visitors can conduct genealogical research related to Randolph County families. Also, RCHBS has a genealogy website for Black Americans who are conducting research.
RCHBS welcomes donations of historical documents, vital records, vintage images, and other memorabilia that reflect the rich history of Randolph County’s Black American communities. These valuable contributions help preserve the region’s cultural legacy. Potential donors are encouraged to visit the RCHBS website, where they can learn more about submitting records online and contributing to the society’s growing archive of genealogical and historical resources.
