(Radio Iowa) - Governor Kim Reynolds says the state has negotiated contracts to immediately buy recreational vehicles for Iowans in 14 counties who qualify for FEMA's Temporary Housing program. 

The state will be reimbursed by FEMA and Reynolds says the state has hired a company to be in charge of maintenance on the R-Vs. Late yesterday Reynolds announced federal officials had approved her request that Iowans have access to FEMA's Temporary Housing program. 

To qualify, Iowans must live in a county that has been declared a federal disaster area. They also have to sign up for FEMA's Individiual Assistance program. It's a way of confirming their home is among the five-thousand residences in Iowa destroyed or critically damaged due to severe weather in April, May and June.

(Radio Iowa) - Governor Kim Reynolds says the state has negotiated contracts to immediately buy recreational vehicles for Iowans in 14 counties who qualify for FEMA's Temporary Housing program. The state will be reimbursed by FEMA and Reynolds says the state has hired a company to be in charge of maintenance on the R-Vs. Late yesterday Reynolds announced federal officials had approved her request that Iowans have access to FEMA's Temporary Housing program. To qualify, Iowans must live in a county that has been declared a federal disaster area. They also have to sign up for FEMA's Individiual Assistance program. It's a way of confirming their home is among the five-thousand residences in Iowa destroyed or critically damaged due to severe weather in April, May and June.

State buys RVs for FEMA's Temporary Housing program for disaster victims

My go to person for local history is Sarah Elder, has been for decades.

So when she started speaking, 20 years ago at the St Joseph’s Border War Society’s monthly meeting, about an embankment fortification built in September of 1861 overlooking the Missouri River and controlling the City, my ears perked up.

Being a battlefield tourist, I have seen earthen forts at Petersburg, Vicksburg, Atlanta and other battle sites. I also knew it took a huge amount of manpower and dirt to build one but an equal amount of effort to tear one down.

On August 12, 1861 masonry forts were made obsolete by Confederate General P G T Beauregard when his artillery opened fire on and destroyed Ft Sumter. No one died in that first barrage of the Civil War, but it changed the defensive mindsets on both sides because of the damage caused by new bursting artillery shells.

Earthen forts could absorb those shells and minimize the damage, now Sarah was saying St Jo had one,... I was on it!

Driving into the bluffs the next day, I went where I would build a controlling fort and drove right to it. There it was, completely overgrown with vines, weeds and trees but the 30ft walls and flat top were distinct. Loess soil is conducive for vertical bluffs and here was perfect proof.

Then the question was who built it and why?

St. Joseph was a strategic prize for both sides. The Union controlled much of the northern part of the state but after a Rebel victory on August 10,1861 at Wilson’s Creek near Springfield. General Sterling Price wanted to move his 12,000 Missouri Guard Army north, seizing assets and recruiting troops. Where was he going? St Joseph being the second largest city in the state and the western terminus for the Hannibal &amp; St. Joseph Railroad was certainly a potential target.

The Union Army quickly decided to build a fortification to help defend and control this divided City. The 16th Infantry Regiment of Illinois with 2,500 troops under the command of Colonel Robert F. Smith was dispatched along the railroad with a contingent of 800 men ending up in St. Joseph. It was Smith’s troops along with slaves, prisoners, and individuals that would not sign the oath of allegiance who quickly built Fort Smith.

People were in a panic, business was good, wagon trains had just left and crops were coming in.

As Colonel Smith prepared for General Price’s potential attack 12 cannons were brought up from Ft Leavenworth and strategically positioned at the Fort protecting the City and controlling the River.

A famous test firing incident took place as the Union artillerymen were trying to target King Hill from Ft Smith and failed miserably. The first shot fell far short hitting the station depot and lodging under the passenger platform.

With that failure under their belts, I guess they thought they couldn’t do any worse, but they did.

The second projectile blasted a cupola of a livery stable on 4th street, crashed through a bowling alley and settled under an outhouse. It has not been documented whether the privy was occupied at the time or not,...just think!

For additional documentation on the Illinois 16th I reached out to Illinois State historian Dr. Thomas Schwartz to see if any letters had been written and sent home from the troops serving in St. Joseph,...bingo! Tom discovered several letters, nobody was happy about being here in September. The authors vigorously complained about the work,mosquitos and the heat.

St. Joseph in 1861 was a wide open town. It had a population of 9,000 but thousands more came through heading west.There were an estimated 130 saloons with all sorts of customers, farmers, travelers, merchants, gamblers, painted ladies, dandies, bushwhackers and Union troops. It was a violent time with passions and convictions running high, most were armed.

I invited Sarah Elder, Parks Director Bill McKinney and the County Commission to tour the Fort with me. The goal was to get the County involved to help with construction costs and maintenance for the redevelopment.

There was considerable skepticism about the project from one commissioner because, “there was no battle here.” I had a Union Kepi cap that I hid the day before in bushes at the Fort. When we toured I yelled, “look they left proof, a hat!” Everyone but Sarah was confused, she gave me a friendly scowl that said, “you're an idiot!”

There were still many ups and downs to come but I knew it was time to pull in the pros, once local historian Joe Houts signed on it was smoother sailing. I had the inspiration but he had the juice to get the Fort rebuilt and turned into St. Joseph’s newest park. The City now has a new attraction where the suppressed story of what went on during those traumatic times could be told.

Sarah Elder has delivered over 2 hours of interviews discussing the history of St. Joseph, Missouri that can be heard for free on our podcast at bobfordshistory.com

So climb the hill overlooking the Missouri River, take in the great view Ft Smith provides and check out the artillery pieces while learning what went on in St. Joseph, MO during its most turbulent year.

More of Bob’s work can be found on his website including his Bob Ford’s History, Mystery and Lore podcast at bobfordshistory.com. The podcasts are also available on most streaming services. Bob can be contacted at robertmford@aol.com

St. Joseph’s Own: Fort SmithBy: Bob FordMy go to person for local history is Sarah Elder, has been for decades.So when she started speaking, 20 years ago at the St Joseph’s Border War Society’s monthly meeting, about an embankment fortification built in September of 1861 overlooking the Missouri River and controlling the City, my ears perked up.Being a battlefield tourist, I have seen earthen forts at Petersburg, Vicksburg, Atlanta and other battle sites. I also knew it took a huge amount of manpower and dirt to build one but an equal amount of effort to tear one down.On August 12, 1861 masonry forts were made obsolete by Confederate General P G T Beauregard when his artillery opened fire on and destroyed Ft Sumter. No one died in that first barrage of the Civil War, but it changed the defensive mindsets on both sides because of the damage caused by new bursting artillery shells.Earthen forts could absorb those shells and minimize the damage, now Sarah was saying St Jo had one,... I was on it!Driving into the bluffs the next day, I went where I would build a controlling fort and drove right to it. There it was, completely overgrown with vines, weeds and trees but the 30ft walls and flat top were distinct. Loess soil is conducive for vertical bluffs and here was perfect proof.Then the question was who built it and why?St. Joseph was a strategic prize for both sides. The Union controlled much of the northern part of the state but after a Rebel victory on August 10,1861 at Wilson’s Creek near Springfield. General Sterling Price wanted to move his 12,000 Missouri Guard Army north, seizing assets and recruiting troops. Where was he going? St Joseph being the second largest city in the state and the western terminus for the Hannibal &amp; St. Joseph Railroad was certainly a potential target.The Union Army quickly decided to build a fortification to help defend and control this divided City. The 16th Infantry Regiment of Illinois with 2,500 troops under the command of Colonel Robert F. Smith was dispatched along the railroad with a contingent of 800 men ending up in St. Joseph. It was Smith’s troops along with slaves, prisoners, and individuals that would not sign the oath of allegiance who quickly built Fort Smith.People were in a panic, business was good, wagon trains had just left and crops were coming in.As Colonel Smith prepared for General Price’s potential attack 12 cannons were brought up from Ft Leavenworth and strategically positioned at the Fort protecting the City and controlling the River.A famous test firing incident took place as the Union artillerymen were trying to target King Hill from Ft Smith and failed miserably. The first shot fell far short hitting the station depot and lodging under the passenger platform.With that failure under their belts, I guess they thought they couldn’t do any worse, but they did.The second projectile blasted a cupola of a livery stable on 4th street, crashed through a bowling alley and settled under an outhouse. It has not been documented whether the privy was occupied at the time or not,...just think!For additional documentation on the Illinois 16th I reached out to Illinois State historian Dr. Thomas Schwartz to see if any letters had been written and sent home from the troops serving in St. Joseph,...bingo! Tom discovered several letters, nobody was happy about being here in September. The authors vigorously complained about the work,mosquitos and the heat.St. Joseph in 1861 was a wide open town. It had a population of 9,000 but thousands more came through heading west.There were an estimated 130 saloons with all sorts of customers, farmers, travelers, merchants, gamblers, painted ladies, dandies, bushwhackers and Union troops. It was a violent time with passions and convictions running high, most were armed.I invited Sarah Elder, Parks Director Bill McKinney and the County Commission to tour the Fort with me. The goal was to get the County involved to help with construction costs and maintenance for the redevelopment.There was considerable skepticism about the project from one commissioner because, “there was no battle here.” I had a Union Kepi cap that I hid the day before in bushes at the Fort. When we toured I yelled, “look they left proof, a hat!” Everyone but Sarah was confused, she gave me a friendly scowl that said, “you're an idiot!”There were still many ups and downs to come but I knew it was time to pull in the pros, once local historian Joe Houts signed on it was smoother sailing. I had the inspiration but he had the juice to get the Fort rebuilt and turned into St. Joseph’s newest park. The City now has a new attraction where the suppressed story of what went on during those traumatic times could be told.Sarah Elder has delivered over 2 hours of interviews discussing the history of St. Joseph, Missouri that can be heard for free on our podcast at bobfordshistory.comSo climb the hill overlooking the Missouri River, take in the great view Ft Smith provides and check out the artillery pieces while learning what went on in St. Joseph, MO during its most turbulent year.———————————-More of Bob’s work can be found on his website including his Bob Ford’s History, Mystery and Lore podcast at bobfordshistory.com. The podcasts are also available on most streaming services. Bob can be contacted at robertmford@aol.com

St. Joseph’s Own: Fort Smith

Most people know Sir Winston Churchill was a talented landscape artist but do you know his other favorite hobby? I’ll give you a hint, it was about as opposite as you can get, but it helps knowing when defining the man.

Churchill was born in November of 1874 in a palace to an aristocratic family. He was afforded all the privileges and expectations from a family with titles and status. His greatest attribute was his clever and curious mind.

Churchill climbed steadily through the ranks in his formative years at both educational and military institutions. He found himself a most effective writer and orator, throughout his life he would prove to be an extraordinary word-smith.

He became a journalist, one of his first assignments was to take his talents to South Africa and cover the 1899 Boer War. This would be Churchill’s first taste of action in which he craved. While on a troop train during a reconnaissance mission the train was attacked. Several British soldiers were killed and many including Churchill taken prisoner.

Churchill sought conflict and publicity. One night he scaled a wall alone and escaped, but he was 300 miles behind enemy lines. Through perseverance and luck he made it back to his lines and finally Britain where his story was told which helped him achieve his sought after hero status. Once back home he ran for political office and won,...he was on his way!

During The Great War, Churchill had risen to become the First Lord of the Admiralty by the age of 40. He was a risk taker and difference maker. The War in 1914 was a meat grinding stalemate in Europe. The ever calculating Churchill proposed a solution - a second front. This Campaign turned out to be the greatest disaster of his life, Gallipoli.

The Gallipoli Peninsula is on the North side of the Dardanelles, strategically protecting the strait where the Aegean Sea connects with the Black Sea. It was occupied by the Turks but Churchill underestimated the Turkish resolve. The sea and land battles to follow claimed a quarter million casualties on both sides, after 9 months the Allies retreated.

Churchill was the international scapegoat.

In future political races his rivals would use “Remember the Darganelles,” as a campaign slogan. Gallipoli was a disaster that would haunt and influence Winston for the rest of his life.

Still, after several years in the background there was probably only one thing that could save Churchill’s career, another global disaster, World War II.

When Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain came back to Britain with the Munich Agreement in 1939, promising peace yet guaranteeing war. As the agreement fell apart, England turned to a familiar face for leadership, Winston Churchill.

Churchill’s gall and steady guidance through the War is well documented and celebrated by millions not only in Britain but around the world.

I have been to the Bunker complex in London where he delivered his inspirational radio messages to an embattled nation, consoling his fellow countrymen to “stay calm and carry on.” The Bunker itself is tiny, looking like a block of jail cells. Oh, if those walls could talk!

The National Churchill Museum is America’s tribute to this great man and the debt we owe him. Located in Fulton, Missouri where in 1946 he delivered his famed “Iron Curtain” speech, predicting what the world would be dealing with for the next 40 years.

We have released a free podcast from the Museum interviewing the Director Tim Riley, visit Bobfordshistory.com and take a listen.

This speech affected my life, in that I had done a few government projects in the past and got a call in December of 1989 to pack my bags. I was off to Czechoslovakia just 2 days after the Berlin Wall came down.

My mission wasn’t covert, it was to assess what Czech products could be exported and accepted by the “West” immediately. This was needed to help stabilize a new and suddenly independent Czech economy. My superiors were Fed Chairman Paul Volker and Ambassador Bill Walker, they gave me 2 weeks! Perhaps more on that adventure later, but the point is Churchill’s speech affected millions of people for decades including yours truly.

BRICKLAYING! How about that for a second hobby! He was an amateur bricklayer, even joining Britons Bricklaying Union.

There have been volumes written on Winston Churchill’s life and achievements. This article is meant to stir your curiosity. Read a book and/or visit the Museum in Fulton, it makes for a great day trip. Learn more about a man whom we owe so much, who overcame mistakes, and went on to help save the world.

By: Bob FordMost people know Sir Winston Churchill was a talented landscape artist but do you know his other favorite hobby? I’ll give you a hint, it was about as opposite as you can get, but it helps knowing when defining the man.Churchill was born in November of 1874 in a palace to an aristocratic family. He was afforded all the privileges and expectations from a family with titles and status. His greatest attribute was his clever and curious mind.Churchill climbed steadily through the ranks in his formative years at both educational and military institutions. He found himself a most effective writer and orator, throughout his life he would prove to be an extraordinary word-smith.He became a journalist, one of his first assignments was to take his talents to South Africa and cover the 1899 Boer War. This would be Churchill’s first taste of action in which he craved. While on a troop train during a reconnaissance mission the train was attacked. Several British soldiers were killed and many including Churchill taken prisoner.Churchill sought conflict and publicity. One night he scaled a wall alone and escaped, but he was 300 miles behind enemy lines. Through perseverance and luck he made it back to his lines and finally Britain where his story was told which helped him achieve his sought after hero status. Once back home he ran for political office and won,...he was on his way!During The Great War, Churchill had risen to become the First Lord of the Admiralty by the age of 40. He was a risk taker and difference maker. The War in 1914 was a meat grinding stalemate in Europe. The ever calculating Churchill proposed a solution - a second front. This Campaign turned out to be the greatest disaster of his life, Gallipoli.The Gallipoli Peninsula is on the North side of the Dardanelles, strategically protecting the strait where the Aegean Sea connects with the Black Sea. It was occupied by the Turks but Churchill underestimated the Turkish resolve. The sea and land battles to follow claimed a quarter million casualties on both sides, after 9 months the Allies retreated.Churchill was the international scapegoat.In future political races his rivals would use “Remember the Darganelles,” as a campaign slogan. Gallipoli was a disaster that would haunt and influence Winston for the rest of his life.Still, after several years in the background there was probably only one thing that could save Churchill’s career, another global disaster, World War II.When Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain came back to Britain with the Munich Agreement in 1939, promising peace yet guaranteeing war. As the agreement fell apart, England turned to a familiar face for leadership, Winston Churchill.Churchill’s gall and steady guidance through the War is well documented and celebrated by millions not only in Britain but around the world.I have been to the Bunker complex in London where he delivered his inspirational radio messages to an embattled nation, consoling his fellow countrymen to “stay calm and carry on.” The Bunker itself is tiny, looking like a block of jail cells. Oh, if those walls could talk!The National Churchill Museum is America’s tribute to this great man and the debt we owe him. Located in Fulton, Missouri where in 1946 he delivered his famed “Iron Curtain” speech, predicting what the world would be dealing with for the next 40 years.We have released a free podcast from the Museum interviewing the Director Tim Riley, visit Bobfordshistory.com and take a listen.This speech affected my life, in that I had done a few government projects in the past and got a call in December of 1989 to pack my bags. I was off to Czechoslovakia just 2 days after the Berlin Wall came down.My mission wasn’t covert, it was to assess what Czech products could be exported and accepted by the “West” immediately. This was needed to help stabilize a new and suddenly independent Czech economy. My superiors were Fed Chairman Paul Volker and Ambassador Bill Walker, they gave me 2 weeks! Perhaps more on that adventure later, but the point is Churchill’s speech affected millions of people for decades including yours truly.BRICKLAYING! How about that for a second hobby! He was an amateur bricklayer, even joining Britons Bricklaying Union.There have been volumes written on Winston Churchill’s life and achievements. This article is meant to stir your curiosity. Read a book and/or visit the Museum in Fulton, it makes for a great day trip. Learn more about a man whom we owe so much, who overcame mistakes, and went on to help save the world.<div><iframe allow="autoplay" width="100%" height="200" src="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-bob-fords-history-mystery-101665628/episode/winston-churchill-117839172/?position=624&embed=true" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Sir Winston Churchill: The right man, just in time

He didn’t get his nickname because he was AB negative and liked to donate.

Anderson was a Bushwacker during the Civil War prowling Kansas and Missouri with his band of equally depraved men, murdering and plundering as they went.

Under the order of Confederate General Sterling Price on September 27, 1864 to disrupt Yankee rail lines in and around Centralia Missouri, Anderson and his men committed one of his worst and best known acts of terrorism. With about 80 or so fellow guerrillas, some in Yankee uniforms, they stopped a train and captured many civilians but also 24 unarmed recently furloughed Union soldiers freshly back from the Battle of Atlanta and headed home. Anderson asked the officers to come forward, thinking he might be the only one shot, bravely Sargent Thomas Goodman took a step. The guerrillas opened fire on the others, executing all 23 then scalping and mutilating their bodies, “ trophy taking.”

The Border War between the Jayhawks and Yankees versus the Bushwackers and Confederates had sunk to this perverse level. What were they thinking?

Later that day, newly minted US Army Major Andrew Johnston led 136 green mounted troops into Centralia and discovered their butchered comrades. Incensed, Johnston ordered his men to pursue the Bushwackers. Just south of town he found Anderson and his men’s camp. As Johnston’s men dismounted to form a battle line Anderson’s men mounted and charged. The Yankees had muzzle-loading Enfield rifles while the battle hardened guerrillas had multiple 6 shooters per man. What was Major Johnston thinking? It was over in 3 minutes, with 3 bandits killed and 123 out of the 147 Yankees killed, most shot while trying to flee. Lore has it the James brothers were there and 17 year old Jesse was the one that shot and killed Major Johnston.

I have been to where the train stopped and the well preserved battlefield. It's eerie and unsettling to walk the battleground thinking of all the bodies and potential trophies.

The prisoner Union Sargent Goodman who survived and witnessed the massacre and battle, would escape days later and write of what happened in Centralia, “ the most monstrous and inhuman atrocities ever perpetrated by beings wearing the form of man.” 

I ask, what psychologically happens to a person descending to a level even to consider trophy hunting? Is one driven by revenge, boastfulness, is there a sick value? God knows trophy hunting isn’t new, Judges 1:6-7, 16:21 and 2nd Samuels 4:12 attests to that.

In a meeting with General Price, Bushwacker leaders Anderson and William Quantrill were accompanied by their men who had several scalps hanging from their saddles. Price was outraged and made the men take the trophies away before the meeting could start.

Bloody Bill would get his however, one month after Centralia Anderson and a few of his men were ambushed at the Battle of Albany, Missouri just outside Orrick. Leaving a friendly farm house after breakfast Union troops were waiting. Anderson and a couple others were killed, there is an interesting marker in the bluffs above Orrick where the attack took place but it's tough to find.

They took Anderson’s bullet-ridden body to Richmond, the County seat of Ray for photographs. As the news spread a crowd gathered, Bloody Bill had been a very bad man. After pictures, it was civilian trophy time. Anderson was decapitated, his head placed on a pike and paraded around the town square. When I go to Richmond and drive around the courthouse square I can’t help but think of that day.

In 1908,.40 years plus after Bloody Bill was killed a sort of commemoration was held. His old comrade in arms Cole Younger decided William T. Anderson did not receive a proper funeral and he was offering to pay for one. Again Lore has it, thousands came and Bloody Bill is now buried in Old Pioneer Cemetery Richmond, Missouri. I drive to Ray County a couple times a year and everytime I go, there are flowers and coins on Anderson’s grave. What are they thinking?

This story and other occurrences in Ray County can be heard on our podcast at Bobfordshistory.com, Ray County and its Museum is loaded with fascinating history.

Trophy hunting, no doubt goes on around the world as conflicts become personal and brutal, an “eye for an eye” is much more acceptable these days than to “turn the other cheek.”

Even in World War II particularly in the Pacific Theater trophy taking happened. It's inconceivable to me but as one gets desensitized by war and violence, peaceful norms are no longer the reality.

Even noncombatant politicians can lose perception. In 1944 US Representative Francis Walter gave President Roosevelt a letter opener made from the forearm of a Japanese soldier. The President received it then thought better of it, returning the letter opener for a proper burial.. What were they both thinking? 

Yep, War is Hell! That’s what I’m thinking!

Next Week:”Butterflies and Puppies!”&nbsp;

By: Bob FordWilliam T. Anderson was a bad man.He didn’t get his nickname because he was AB negative and liked to donate.Anderson was a Bushwacker during the Civil War prowling Kansas and Missouri with his band of equally depraved men, murdering and plundering as they went.Under the order of Confederate General Sterling Price on September 27, 1864 to disrupt Yankee rail lines in and around Centralia Missouri, Anderson and his men committed one of his worst and best known acts of terrorism. With about 80 or so fellow guerrillas, some in Yankee uniforms, they stopped a train and captured many civilians but also 24 unarmed recently furloughed Union soldiers freshly back from the Battle of Atlanta and headed home. Anderson asked the officers to come forward, thinking he might be the only one shot, bravely Sargent Thomas Goodman took a step. The guerrillas opened fire on the others, executing all 23 then scalping and mutilating their bodies, “ trophy taking.”The Border War between the Jayhawks and Yankees versus the Bushwackers and Confederates had sunk to this perverse level. What were they thinking?Later that day, newly minted US Army Major Andrew Johnston led 136 green mounted troops into Centralia and discovered their butchered comrades. Incensed, Johnston ordered his men to pursue the Bushwackers. Just south of town he found Anderson and his men’s camp. As Johnston’s men dismounted to form a battle line Anderson’s men mounted and charged. The Yankees had muzzle-loading Enfield rifles while the battle hardened guerrillas had multiple 6 shooters per man. What was Major Johnston thinking? It was over in 3 minutes, with 3 bandits killed and 123 out of the 147 Yankees killed, most shot while trying to flee. Lore has it the James brothers were there and 17 year old Jesse was the one that shot and killed Major Johnston.I have been to where the train stopped and the well preserved battlefield. It's eerie and unsettling to walk the battleground thinking of all the bodies and potential trophies.The prisoner Union Sargent Goodman who survived and witnessed the massacre and battle, would escape days later and write of what happened in Centralia, “ the most monstrous and inhuman atrocities ever perpetrated by beings wearing the form of man.” I ask, what psychologically happens to a person descending to a level even to consider trophy hunting? Is one driven by revenge, boastfulness, is there a sick value? God knows trophy hunting isn’t new, Judges 1:6-7, 16:21 and 2nd Samuels 4:12 attests to that.In a meeting with General Price, Bushwacker leaders Anderson and William Quantrill were accompanied by their men who had several scalps hanging from their saddles. Price was outraged and made the men take the trophies away before the meeting could start.Bloody Bill would get his however, one month after Centralia Anderson and a few of his men were ambushed at the Battle of Albany, Missouri just outside Orrick. Leaving a friendly farm house after breakfast Union troops were waiting. Anderson and a couple others were killed, there is an interesting marker in the bluffs above Orrick where the attack took place but it's tough to find.They took Anderson’s bullet-ridden body to Richmond, the County seat of Ray for photographs. As the news spread a crowd gathered, Bloody Bill had been a very bad man. After pictures, it was civilian trophy time. Anderson was decapitated, his head placed on a pike and paraded around the town square. When I go to Richmond and drive around the courthouse square I can’t help but think of that day.In 1908,.40 years plus after Bloody Bill was killed a sort of commemoration was held. His old comrade in arms Cole Younger decided William T. Anderson did not receive a proper funeral and he was offering to pay for one. Again Lore has it, thousands came and Bloody Bill is now buried in Old Pioneer Cemetery Richmond, Missouri. I drive to Ray County a couple times a year and everytime I go, there are flowers and coins on Anderson’s grave. What are they thinking?This story and other occurrences in Ray County can be heard on our podcast at Bobfordshistory.com, Ray County and its Museum is loaded with fascinating history.Trophy hunting, no doubt goes on around the world as conflicts become personal and brutal, an “eye for an eye” is much more acceptable these days than to “turn the other cheek.”Even in World War II particularly in the Pacific Theater trophy taking happened. It's inconceivable to me but as one gets desensitized by war and violence, peaceful norms are no longer the reality.Even noncombatant politicians can lose perception. In 1944 US Representative Francis Walter gave President Roosevelt a letter opener made from the forearm of a Japanese soldier. The President received it then thought better of it, returning the letter opener for a proper burial.. What were they both thinking? Yep, War is Hell! That’s what I’m thinking!Next Week:”Butterflies and Puppies!”&nbsp;

Bloody Bill / What Were They Thinking?

( Articles and Podcasts are complementary from those helping to preserve our history: Nodaway Valley Bank, Eagle Communications, Mastio, and Anonymous Buffs.) 

Did you ever feel you didn’t fit in? Did you care if you didn’t? You know if you would just conform, life would be so much easier, but it’s just not in you. 

That’s how Amelia Earhart must have felt in Atchison, KS, especially since she grew up in the early 1900s. It’s people like Coco Chanel, Marie Curie, Osa Johnson, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Amelia who stayed focused and true to themselves that changed the world.  

Amelia Earhart was a handful at the get-go. When she attended her first airshow in 1920, at the age of 22, Amelia knew what she wanted to become, an aviator. 

Life in the early 20th century was difficult at best for women who challenged the norms, but after Amelia tasted success and her achievements were first accepted then acclaimed by a male-dominated society she thirsted for more. Faster, higher and further she went as records were broken,  accolades rolled in and dreams achieved. 

Once Amelia did give into social mores by finally accepting one of George Putnam’s marriage proposals, but only under her terms. She wrote her future husband a letter outlining what she would not become — a traditional subservient wife. George agreed, Amelia kept on flying with the blessing and promotional help of her husband.  

No doubt, Amelia’s mysterious disappearance added to her legacy, but her bravery and accomplishments inspired mostly young girls to dream, strive and succeed.  

A visit to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum is a great escape for people of all ages. Each room is laden with  Victorian furniture, Amelia memorabilia and stories of her adventures. You get the “feeling,” in this quaint house, overlooking the Missouri River that Amelia could walk into the room at any time wearing her signature leather jacket and cropped pants.  

Take a drive and tell Heather and Madison you are FOB’s. Knock on the solid cherry banister that I’m sure Amelia rode down most every morning getting her first thrill of the day and rankling her parents as she slid towards immortality.

Bob Ford’s articles will run on the 1st and 15th of each month. You can find more of his work including his  

Bob Ford’s History, Mystery and Lore podcast on his website bobfordshistory.com. 

The podcasts are also available on most streaming services. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695053836294.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Amelia’s Impact By: Bob Ford ( Articles and Podcasts are complementary from those helping to preserve our history: Nodaway Valley Bank, Eagle Communications, Mastio, and Anonymous Buffs.) Did you ever feel you didn’t fit in? Did you care if you didn’t? You know if you would just conform, life would be so much easier, but it’s just not in you. That’s how Amelia Earhart must have felt in Atchison, KS, especially since she grew up in the early 1900s. It’s people like Coco Chanel, Marie Curie, Osa Johnson, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Amelia who stayed focused and true to themselves that changed the world. Amelia Earhart was a handful at the get-go. When she attended her first airshow in 1920, at the age of 22, Amelia knew what she wanted to become, an aviator. Life in the early 20th century was difficult at best for women who challenged the norms, but after Amelia tasted success and her achievements were first accepted then acclaimed by a male-dominated society she thirsted for more. Faster, higher and further she went as records were broken, accolades rolled in and dreams achieved. Once Amelia did give into social mores by finally accepting one of George Putnam’s marriage proposals, but only under her terms. She wrote her future husband a letter outlining what she would not become — a traditional subservient wife. George agreed, Amelia kept on flying with the blessing and promotional help of her husband. No doubt, Amelia’s mysterious disappearance added to her legacy, but her bravery and accomplishments inspired mostly young girls to dream, strive and succeed. A visit to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum is a great escape for people of all ages. Each room is laden with Victorian furniture, Amelia memorabilia and stories of her adventures. You get the “feeling,” in this quaint house, overlooking the Missouri River that Amelia could walk into the room at any time wearing her signature leather jacket and cropped pants. Take a drive and tell Heather and Madison you are FOB’s. Knock on the solid cherry banister that I’m sure Amelia rode down most every morning getting her first thrill of the day and rankling her parents as she slid towards immortality.<div><iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless src="https://player.simplecast.com/14ec116b-03ed-41b3-872e-2f45d8c75103?dark=true"></iframe></div> ————————————- Bob Ford’s articles will run on the 1st and 15th of each month. You can find more of his work including his Bob Ford’s History, Mystery and Lore podcast on his website bobfordshistory.com. The podcasts are also available on most streaming services. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com

Amelia’s Impact

When I was but a lad in the 60's, it was the centennial commemoration for many battles and events that surrounded the Civil War. I remember how grand but old all the ceremonies on TV looked, then my father explained centennial meant 100, 100 years.

Across the street was old man Captain Deal who was 100 years old. I couldn't believe that he was alive while this was going on! All before electricity, cars and TV,...wow! The connection was made and I was hooked.

Since then I have loved any and all sorts of history but particularly American history. Living in the midwest gave me access to museums and historic sites that intrigue and teach. St. Joseph Missouri is where I spent most of my time and this community is loaded. In 1861 St. Joseph was the epicenter for western expansion being the hub for transportation, communication and commerce.

As I have stated before, if you have lineage in the west chances are your ancestors came through this area, risking it all so you could enjoy the life you are living.

Because this area was on the move the interconnections between cities, people and their history is obvious and worth discovering. Stories of family and individuals who left their mark, good and bad, are fascinating.

Our podcasts are meant to remind us of the important lessons history can teach people with the ability to look back and then forward with more clarity. The past isn't always pleasant but important because as reasoning beings we have the ability to learn. Serious mistakes happen that can leave generational wounds but learning from those mistakes and adjusting behaviors is how a civilized society progresses.

A by-product of this venture is supporting the small museums that dot the midwest. Allowing them to stay open and relevant is an important part in "keeping history alive."

So join us as we travel to all parts interesting, no Zoom conversations here I go to these places, from Amelia Earhart to Winston Churchill, Evel Knievel to the Santa Fe Trail and Walter Cronkite to the Battle of Shiloh. We have conducted 40 plus interviews already with museums and sites now contacting us!

Come along for the ride as we explore and enjoy what that old man across the street started, a love for History!

Putting it Out There!By: Bob FordWhen I was but a lad in the 60's, it was the centennial commemoration for many battles and events that surrounded the Civil War. I remember how grand but old all the ceremonies on TV looked, then my father explained centennial meant 100, 100 years.Across the street was old man Captain Deal who was 100 years old. I couldn't believe that he was alive while this was going on! All before electricity, cars and TV,...wow! The connection was made and I was hooked.Since then I have loved any and all sorts of history but particularly American history. Living in the midwest gave me access to museums and historic sites that intrigue and teach. St. Joseph Missouri is where I spent most of my time and this community is loaded. In 1861 St. Joseph was the epicenter for western expansion being the hub for transportation, communication and commerce.As I have stated before, if you have lineage in the west chances are your ancestors came through this area, risking it all so you could enjoy the life you are living.Because this area was on the move the interconnections between cities, people and their history is obvious and worth discovering. Stories of family and individuals who left their mark, good and bad, are fascinating.Our podcasts are meant to remind us of the important lessons history can teach people with the ability to look back and then forward with more clarity. The past isn't always pleasant but important because as reasoning beings we have the ability to learn. Serious mistakes happen that can leave generational wounds but learning from those mistakes and adjusting behaviors is how a civilized society progresses.A by-product of this venture is supporting the small museums that dot the midwest. Allowing them to stay open and relevant is an important part in "keeping history alive."So join us as we travel to all parts interesting, no Zoom conversations here I go to these places, from Amelia Earhart to Winston Churchill, Evel Knievel to the Santa Fe Trail and Walter Cronkite to the Battle of Shiloh. We have conducted 40 plus interviews already with museums and sites now contacting us!Come along for the ride as we explore and enjoy what that old man across the street started, a love for History!

History Corner