- All
- Amusements
- Buildings
- Brick Block
- Ward Building
- Business
- Banks
- Barber Shop
- Busline
- Coal Mines
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- Electric
- Funeral Home
- General Store
- Hardware
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- Jewelry
- Lumber Yard
- Manufacturing
- Natural Gas
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- Cemeteries
- Lawson Cemetery
- Churches
- Assembly of God
- Baptist
- Canaan Hill
- Christian
- Methodist
- Old Christian Union
- Presbyterian
- Salem Church
- City Government
- Alderman
- City Hall
- City Lake Project
- Civic Events
- Mayor
- Other Departments
- Police Department
- Water & Sewer System
- City Park
- Civic Groups
- B.P.W.
- Bee Hive Lodge
- Beta Sigma Phi
- Boy Scouts
- City Band
- Civic Improvement Club
- Cub Scouts
- Forty Two Club
- Girl Scouts
- Good Temple Lodge
- I.O.O.F. Lodge
- Klever Kraft
- Lawson Community 2000 Task Force
- Lawson Community Theater
- Lawson Fair Association
- Lawson Swim Club
- Missouri Valley Fox Hunt
- Order of Eastern Star
- P.E.O.
- Parent Teachers Association
- Rakla Shrine Club
- Rebekah Lodge
- Rotary Club
- V.F.W. Post #9065
- Xi Beta Tau Exemplar Chapter
- Doctors
- Fire Department
- Golf Course
- Lawson Picnic
- Military
- Nike Base
- Other Wars
- World War I
- World War II
- Newspapers
- Lawson Gazette
- Lawson Journal
- Lawson Leader
- Lawson Review
- Lawsonian
- Newspapers History
- Ray County Review
- Post Office
- Railroads
- Milwaukee Railroad
- Rock Island Railroad
- Santa Fe Railroad
- Roads & Streets
- Schools
- Buildings
- Country Schools
- Butler
- East Fork
- Elmira
- Franklin
- Graham
- Grigsby
- Murray
- Pleasant Grove
- Rayville
- Riggs
- Union
- Lawson Graduate
- 1966 Grad
- 1991 Grad
- Presbyterian Academy
- School Board
- Superintendent
- Teachers
- Sports
- Little League Baseball
- Subdivisions & Annexes
- Surrounding Towns
- Claysville
- Elmira
- Pleasant View
- Watkins Mill
- Weather Related Events
- World/National/State Events
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Missouri became a state
August 10, 1821August 10, 1821 – Missouri became a state
1821 – Ray County’s boundaries ran from the Grand River on the east to the Platte purchase on the west and from the Missouri River on the south to the Iowa Line on the North.
August 10, 1821Missouri became a state
August 10, 1821 – Missouri became a state
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Battle of Crooked River
November 1838November 1838 – the “battle of Crooked River”, a day’s skirmish between Mormons of adjoining Caldwell and militia company of Ray took place
November 1838Battle of Crooked River
November 1838 – the “battle of Crooked River”, a day’s skirmish
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W. L. Watkins Acquired Land
March 27, 1839March 27, 1839 – W. L. Watkins acquired his first 80 acres of land
March 27, 1839W. L. Watkins Acquired Land
March 27, 1839 – W. L. Watkins acquired his first 80 acres of land
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Watkins Was Operating Grist & Flour Mill
Early 1840sEarly 1840s – Watkins was operating the area’s first grist and flour mill
Early 1840sWatkins Was Operating Grist & Flour Mill
Early 1840s – Watkins was operating the area’s first grist and flour mill
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Old Christian Union Church was organized
18471847 – Old Christian Union Church was organized
1847Old Christian Union Church was organized
1847 – Old Christian Union Church was organized
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Watkins First Circular Saw Mill
18481848 – Watkins installed the county’s first circular saw mill in the spring of 1848
1848Watkins First Circular Saw Mill
Watkins installed the county’s first circular saw mill
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Presbyterians of Lawson Was Organized
June 18, 1849June 18, 1849 – The Presbyterians, the oldest church group of Lawson was organized June 18, 1849—in a log meeting house built in 1844, six miles southeast of the future Lawson. Salem??
June 18, 1849Presbyterians of Lawson Was Organized
The Presbyterians, the oldest church group of Lawson was organized
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Watkins House
18511851 – Waltus L. Watkins completed his permanent homestead.
1851Watkins House
Waltus L. Watkins completed his permanent homestead
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Claysville Was Founded
18521852 – Claysville was founded as a trail crossing stage stop.
1852Claysville Was Founded
Claysville was founded as
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Watkins Entered Land
18531853 – W. L. Watkins entered land that would later become the town of Lawson
1853Watkins Entered Land
Watkins entered land that would later
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Franklin School
18561856 – Franklin School, the octagonal shaped, two room, brick school house at Watkins Mill was built.
Franklin School 1856Franklin School
The octagonal school at Watkins Mill was
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Watkins Woolen Mill Under Construction
18591859 – Waltus L. Watkins began construction of the three story brick woolen mill
1859Watkins Woolen Mill Under Construction
Waltus L. Watkins began construction of the woolen mill
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Watkins Woolen Mill in Full Production
18611861 – Watkins Woolen Mill was in full production and continued to operate until the middle 1890s
1861Watkins Woolen Mill in Full Production
Watkins Woolen Mill was in full production
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Watkins Sold Land to Elston
18641864 – Watkins sold 80 acres of the land obtained in 1853 to Benjamin Elston (the present site of Lawson)
1864Watkins Sold Land to Elston
Watkins sold 80 acres of the land to Elston
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St. Joseph Railroad Company Organized
18681868 – St. Joseph Railroad Company was organized, headed by executives of the Donnell, Lawson & Company banking firm of New York City
1868St. Joseph Railroad Company Organized
St. Joseph Railroad Company was organized
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Old Union Christian Union Church
November 8, 1868November 8, 1868 – Old Union joined with the Christian Unions to become Old Union Christian Union Church.
November 8, 1868Old Union Christian Union Church
Old Union joined with the Christian Unions
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Raum Buys Land From Elston
18701870 – The 80 acre tract of land that Elston had purchased from Watkins was sold to Josh Raum
1870Raum Buys Land From Elston
Raum buys land for Elston
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St. Joseph Land Company Buys Land
June 1870June 1870 – the St. Joseph Land Company, an affiliate of the St. Joseph Railroad, bought forty acres of land from Joseph Raum and built a train depot
June 1870St. Joseph Land Company Buys Land
St. Joseph Land Company buys land from Raum
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Pump in City Park
June 1870June 1870 – The public well beneath the pump in the City Park began serving the people of Lawson
June 1870Pump in City Park
The public well beneath the pump in the City Park
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First Permanent Store Building
July 1870July 1870 – first permanent store building was built on north half of Lot 10, Block 11 by St. Joseph Land Company. It was sold to George Young in July 1870 for $1000
July 1870First Permanent Store Building
First permanent store building was built
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Permit Issued for Lawson Station
August 1870August 1870 – permit was issued for Lawson Station. Robert J. Clark was appointed first postmaster
August 1870Permit Issued for Lawson Station
Permit was issued for Lawson Station
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Luttie Palmer Taught First School Class
August 1871August 1871 – Miss Luttie Palmer taught the first school class of twenty students in a house located at Third & Doniphan.
August 1871Luttie Palmer Taught First School Class
Miss Luttie Palmer taught first school class
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Original Town Plat Was Filed
September 20, 1870September 20, 1870 – original town plat was filed with the county recorder
September 20, 1870Original Town Plat Was Filed
Original town plat was filed with the county recorder
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Bee Hive Lodge Organized
December 31, 1870December 31, 1870 Bee Hive Lodge NO. 393, A.F. and A.M. was organized
December 31, 1870Bee Hive Lodge Organized
Bee Hive Lodge NO. 393, A.F. and A.M. was organized
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Bee Hive Lodge Charter
October 13, 1871October 13, 1871 – Bee Hive Lodge’s charter was granted
October 13, 1871Bee Hive Lodge Charter
Bee Hive Lodge’s charter was granted
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Bee Hive Hall Dedicated
November 3, 1871November 3, 1871 – Bee Hive hall on the northeast corner of Third and Penn was dedicated
November 3, 1871Bee Hive Hall Dedicated
November 3, 1871 – Bee Hive hall on the northeast corner of Third and Penn was dedicated
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Lawson Incorporated
November 7, 1871November 7, 1871 – Lawson was incorporated as a fourth class city
November 7, 1871Lawson Incorporated
Lawson was incorporated
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Lawson Station Becomes Lawson
18721872 – “Station” was dropped from “Lawson Station”
1872Lawson Station Becomes Lawson
“Station” was dropped
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Presbyterian & Methodist Combine Resources
18721872 – Lawson Presbyterian and Methodist were organized combining resources to build the town’s first church on the northeast corner of Fourth & Ingles. Separate services were held.
1872Presbyterian & Methodist Combine Resources
Lawson Presbyterian and Methodist Churches were combined
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Corrected Version of Town Plat Recorded
February 20, 1872February 20, 1872 – corrected version (footage wise) of town plat was filed with county recorder
February 20, 1872Corrected Version of Town Plat Recorded
Corrected version of town plat
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St. Joseph Land Company Gave the City the Town Square
February 20, 1872February 20, 1872 – the St. Joseph Land Company gave the City the town square for public use; recorded February 23, 1872
February 20, 1872St. Joseph Land Company Gave the City the Town Square
St. Joseph Land Company gave the City the town square
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Presbyterian’s New Church Building
September 22, 1872September 22, 1872 – J. M. Scott preached the first Presbyterian sermon in the new church building located at Fourth & Ingles
September 22, 1872Presbyterian’s New Church Building
J. M. Scott preached the first Presbyterian sermon
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Lawson Cemetery Organized
January 23, 1873January 23, 1873 – ten men met for the purpose of drawing up articles of agreement for organizing a cemetery association.
January 23, 1873Lawson Cemetery Organized
Ten men met to form cemetery association.
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East Addition
August 5, 1873August 5, 1873 – City limits were expanded to include “East Addition” which was bounded on the north by Sixth, on the east by Montgomery, on the south by First and on the west by Ingles.
August 5, 1873East Addition
City limits were expanded to include “East Addition”
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Land Purchased to Build a School House
October 17, 1873October 17, 1873 – Lots 1 & 2, Block 2 in East Addition (southwest corner of Sixth & Allison) were purchased to build a schoolhouse.
October 17, 1873Land Purchased to Build a School House
Land purchased to build a schoolhouse
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Raum Hotel Was Built
18741874 – Raum Hotel was built on south half of Lot 10, Block 11 by Joseph & Henrietta Raum
1874Raum Hotel Was Built
Raum Hotel was built by Joseph & Henrietta Raum
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Good Temple Lodge Organized
18741874 – Good Temple Lodge was organized but it was short-lived
1874Good Temple Lodge Organized
1874 – Good Temple Lodge was organized but it was short-lived
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First Multi-Room School House
August 1874August 1874 – The first schoolhouse of at least two rooms, built at a cost of $500 must have been ready for classes in August of 1874, lot number one being its playground. M. B. Riley was its first principal (southwest corner of Sixth & Allison)
August 1874First Multi-Room School House
The first schoolhouse of at least two rooms
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Negro School
August 1874August 1874 – Classes for the town’s negro children opened in Lawson’s first school room located at Third & Doniphan.
August 1874Negro School
Classes for the town’s negro children opened
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The first Baptist Church organized
18791879 – the first Lawson Baptist Church was organized
1879The first Baptist Church organized
The first Lawson Baptist Church was organized
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Baptists Built a Church
18801880 – the first Baptists built a church on Pennsylvania, just south of Fifth
1880Baptists Built a Church
The first Baptists built a church
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Pleasant H. Cates
Mayor 1881 - 1883Born July 1821, Tennessee – Died February 9, 1886, Ray County, Missouri. Buried in Cates Cemetery, Caldwell County, Missouri
Pleasant H. Cates was mayor of Lawson from 1881 – 1883
Mayor 1881 - 1883Pleasant H. Cates
Born July 1821, Tennessee – Died February 9, 1886, Ray C
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The Lawson Gazette
April 8, 1881April 8, 1881 – The Lawson Gazette
Volume I, Number I of The Lawson Gazette was a four page paper edited by William Holman and operated by the Lawson Publishing Company which was owned by T. S. Bogle of Richmond.
April 8, 1881The Lawson Gazette
Lawson's first newspaper was printed
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Montgomery Addition
December 5, 1881December 5, 1881 – City limits were expanded to include “Montgomery Addition” which was bounded on the north by Sixth, on the east by Pennsylvania, on the south by Fourth and on the west by Garner (see 1914 plat)
December 5, 1881Montgomery Addition
City limits were expanded to include “Montgomery Addition”
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Christian Church Was Organized
January 29, 1882January 29, 1882 – The Lawson Christian Church was organized.
January 29, 1882Christian Church Was Organized
The Lawson Christian Church was organized.
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Lawson Bank Was Incorporated
August 14, 1883March 14, 1883 – Lawson Bank was issued its Certificate of Incorporation as a Missouri corporation
August 14, 1883Lawson Bank Was Incorporated
Lawson Bank was incorporated
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First School Lots Sold
June 1883June 1883 – The first school lots 1&2 – Block 2 in East Addition (southwest corner of Sixth & Allison) were sold to Emma Wright for $350.
June 1883First School Lots Sold
The first school lots were sold
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Christian Church Building Was Dedicated
August 4, 1883August 4, 1883 – The new Christian Church on Raum was dedicated.
August 4, 1883Christian Church Building Was Dedicated
The new Christian Church was dedicated
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Lawson Bank Purchased Lots
October 22, 1883October 22, 1883 – Lawson Bank purchased the lots on the northwest corner of Penn & Fourth, where the present bank is located
October 22, 1883Lawson Bank Purchased Lots
Lawson Bank purchased lots
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Brick Schoolhouse Built
18831883 – Lots 7 and 8 of Block 3 in East Addition (northwest corner of Fourth & Allison) were purchased and a three room, two storied brick schoolhouse was built.
1883Brick Schoolhouse Built
New brick schoolhouse was built
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Waltus L. Watkins Died
January 24, 1884January 24, 1884 – Waltus L. Watkins died and the three Watkins sons continued to operate the mill
January 24, 1884Waltus L. Watkins Died
Waltus L. Watkins died
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James H. Shutts
Mayor circa 1885-1889Born in 1822 in New York. Died March 11, 1895. Buried in Lawson Cemetery
Shutts lived in Lawson a number of years. He was postmaster under Cleveland’s first term (1885-1889), Mayor of Lawson, and for a time editor of the paper.
???? – ???? what year was he mayor? approx 1885-1889
Mayor circa 1885-1889James H. Shutts
Shutts lived in Lawson a number of years. He was postmaster under Cleveland’s first term,
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Lawson Bank Building Completed
18851885 – Lawson Bank building was built on the northwest corner of Penn & Fourth
1885Lawson Bank Building Completed
Lawson Bank building was completed
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Lawson Fair Association
18861886 – the Lawson District Fair Association was organized
1886Lawson Fair Association
Lawson District Fair Association was organized
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Milwaukee Railroad Completes Line
18871887 – the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad built a line through Lawson establishing a depot beyond the north end of the main street
1887Milwaukee Railroad Completes Line
The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad built a line
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Presbyterians Purchases Entire Building
18871887 – Presbyterians purchased the Methodists’ half of the church and lot at Fourth & Ingles
1887Presbyterians Purchases Entire Building
Presbyterians purchased the Methodists’ half of the church
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The Lawsonian
1887 - 18891887-1889 The Lawsonian
The Lawsonian – proprietor: J. H. Shutts
Lawsonian August 3, 1888 1887 - 1889The Lawsonian
The Lawsonian – proprietor: J. H. Shutts
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Elmira Gets a Post Office
18871887 – A post office was established in Elmira
1887Elmira Gets a Post Office
A post office was established in Elmira
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Methodist Church Dedicated
November 1887November 1887 – Methodist Church building at Sixth & Ingles was dedicated
November 1887Methodist Church Dedicated
Methodist Church building at Sixth & Ingles was dedicated
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Morrow Lumber Buys Grizzel & Maggey
18881888 – J. M. Morrow Lumber Company purchased the lumberyard from Grizzel and Maggey.
1888Morrow Lumber Buys Grizzel & Maggey
Morrow Lumber Company purchased the lumberyard from
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The Lawson Leader
1889 - 18991889-1899 Lawson Leader
Lawson Leader – December 1, 1898 There were several editors and publishers including Burton I. Clark, Sam W. Davis, Sam A. Clark and Harry Roloff.
1889 - 1899The Lawson Leader
The Lawson Leader. There were several editors and publishers
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C. P. Wright
Mayor circa 1880s-1890sAccording to The Ray County Review, Thursday, June 6, 1907, Wright was at one time editor of the paper, then called the Democrat. He served as constable for years, was mayor for a time and was engaged in the insurance business.
???? – ???? what year was he mayor?
Mayor circa 1880s-1890sC. P. Wright
served as constable, mayor, and was engaged in the insurance business
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Baptist Church Destroyed by Fire
18901890 – the Baptist church on Pennsylvania just south of Fifth burned down.
1890Baptist Church Destroyed by Fire
Baptist church on Pennsylvania just south of Fifth
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Cemetery Purchased More Land
December 1890December 1890 – Land north and east of the existing cemetery was purchased
December 1890Cemetery Purchased More Land
Land north and east of the existing cemetery was purchased
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Community Christmas Tree
December 1890December 1890 – local business firms sponsored a community Christmas tree
December 1890Community Christmas Tree
Local business firms sponsored a community Christmas tree
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Presbyterian Academy Organized
18911891 – Lawson Presbyterian Academy was organized under the management of Dr. Edmund Eusebius Riopel
1891Presbyterian Academy Organized
Lawson Presbyterian Academy was organized
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New Baptist Church Complete
18921892 – the new Baptist church was completed on the south half of two lots just below Sixth, on the east side of Doniphan.
1892New Baptist Church Complete
The new Baptist church was completed
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Methodist Woman’s Missionary Society
18951895 – Woman’s Missionary Society was established at the Methodist Church.
1895Methodist Woman’s Missionary Society
Woman’s Missionary Society was established
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Bee Hive Lodge Destroyed by Fire
18961896 – Bee Hive lodge at the corner of Third and Pennsylvania burned
1896Bee Hive Lodge Destroyed by Fire
Bee Hive lodge at the corner of Third and Pennsylvania
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I.O.O.F. Lodge Organized
March 24, 1896March 24, 1896 – Lawson I.O.O.F. Lodge No. 528 was organized
March 24, 1896I.O.O.F. Lodge Organized
Lawson I.O.O.F. Lodge No. 528 was organized
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Christian Church Rededicated
December 13, 1896December 13, 1896 – The Christian Church building was rededicated after the completion of the north and south gabled additions.
December 13, 1896Christian Church Rededicated
The Christian Church building was rededicated
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Second Masonic Lodge Built
18971897 – Second Masonic lodge was built
1897Second Masonic Lodge Built
Second Masonic lodge was built
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Presbyterian’s New Manse
18981898 – The Presbyterian’s new manse was first occupied by the current minister H. M. Kerr.
1898Presbyterian’s New Manse
The Presbyterian’s new manse was first occupied
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School Building Destroyed by Fire
Late 1890sLate 1890s – school building burned down and the school was rebuilt in the same location.
Late 1890sSchool Building Destroyed by Fire
School building burned down
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Presbyterian Academy Destroyed by Fire
October 4, 1898October 4, 1898 – Lawson Presbyterian Academy burned
October 4, 1898Presbyterian Academy Destroyed by Fire
Presbyterian Academy burned
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The Lawson Journal
1899-19011899-1901 Lawson Journal
Lawson Journal – December 7, 1899 When Walter L. Bales bought the paper in 1899, he headed it “The Lawson Journal”
1899-1901The Lawson Journal
1899-1901 Lawson Journal. When Walter L. Bales
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Partitition Added to School
1899By 1899, a partition was added across the second story room in the school.
1899Partitition Added to School
A partition was added to school
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The Ray County Review
1899 - 1916The Ray County Review
1899 – May 4, 1916 Ray County Review
1901 – Frank B. Thomas and Chas. D. Weakley
C. D. Weakley, editor of Ray County Review 1902-1911: Robert S. Lyon, Editor & Proprietor
May 4, 1911: Robert S. Lyon, editor; Riley & Sanderson, publishers
Robert Lyon, editor of Ray County Review, 1902-1911 July 11, 1912: Fred M. Sanderson, Editor (Riley left the Review for the Richmond Daily News)
June 11, 1914: A. V. Blackwell, Editor
March 1916 Sam Halstead bought the Lawson newspaper.
May 4, 1916: Sam R. Halstead, Editor; J. W. Halstead & Sam R. Halstead, Publishers; last issue as Ray County Review.
Samuel Halstead, Boley Blackwell, Ernest Lockard 1899 - 1916The Ray County Review
The Ray County Review 1899 – May 4, 1916
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Presbyterian Academy Classes Held at Bank
19001900 – the last classes for Lawson Presbyterian Academy were held in rooms above the Bank
1900Presbyterian Academy Classes Held at Bank
The last classes for Lawson Presbyterian Academy
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Presbyterian Academy Classes Discontinued
19001900 – Lawson Presbyterian Academy classes were discontinued
1900Presbyterian Academy Classes Discontinued
Presbyterian Academy classes were discontinued
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Forty Two Club Was Organized
19001900 – the Forty Two Club (Fancy Work Club) was organized
1900Forty Two Club Was Organized
Tthe Forty Two Club (Fancy Work Club)
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Old Union Builds Church
19021902 – Old Union built a frame building near the old church
1902Old Union Builds Church
Old Union built a frame building
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First Annual Lawson Picnic
19021902 – First Annual Lawson Picnic sponsored by the I.O.O.F. Lodge
1902First Annual Lawson Picnic
First Annual Lawson Picnic sponsored
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W. A. James
Mayor 1903 - 1904W. A. James was Mayor of Lawson 1903-1904
Mayor 1903 - 1904W. A. James
W. A. James was Mayor of Lawson 1903-1904
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Ammerman Bought Local Telephone Company
19041904 – Eldorus F. Ammerman, Lawson’s first depot master, bought the local telephone company from Dr. ‘Billy’ James
Eldorus F. Ammerman 1904Ammerman Bought Local Telephone Company
Eldorus F. Ammerman bought the local telephone company
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The Review Published a Magazine
19041904 – The Review published a 100 page magazine
1904The Review Published a Magazine
The Review published a 100 page magazine
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The First Rural Mail Route
19041904 – The first rural mail route was established
1904The First Rural Mail Route
The first rural mail route was established
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“Long Lane” Blocked With Snow
19041904 – the “long lane” east of town (now State Highway D) was blocked with snow for more than a week.
1904“Long Lane” Blocked With Snow
The “long lane” east of town was blocked
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Morrow Lumber Bought the Adjoining building
19041904 – Morrow lumberyard bought the adjoining Young building
1904Morrow Lumber Bought the Adjoining building
Morrow lumber bought the adjoining Young building
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Elmira Got Its First Rural Mail Route
19041904 – Elmira got its first rural mail route
1904Elmira Got Its First Rural Mail Route
Elmira got its first rural mail route
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Old Curfew Bell
Spring 1904Spring 1904 – The old curfew bell that formerly brought children in off the street at dark was removed from the city park
Spring 1904Old Curfew Bell
The old curfew bell was removed
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I.O.O.F. Bought Second Floor
January 4, 1904January 4, 1904 – The I.O.O.F. bought the second floor of the building they had been using (northeast corner of Penn & Third) that was now owned by William A. James and his wife Josephine, heirs of Dr. George James
January 4, 1904I.O.O.F. Bought Second Floor
I.O.O.F. bought the second floor of the building
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Thomas Jefferson Meadows
Mayor 1905 - 1906[need photo]
Election Tuesday, April 4, 1905: Thomas Jefferson Meadows won over W. A. James by 8 votes. Meadows was Mayor of Lawson 1905 – 1906
Meadows was born December 8, 1863 in Missouri, the son of James Meadows and Susan Carter. He died January 28, 1939 at age 75 and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1905 - 1906Thomas Jefferson Meadows
Meadows was Mayor of Lawson 1905 – 1906
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A Two Room Wing Added To The School
19051905 – A two room wing was added to the school.
1905A Two Room Wing Added To The School
A two room wing was added to the school
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More Rural Mail Routes in Ray County
January 1905January 1905 – the Post Office Department in Washington ordered eleven new rural mail routes in Ray County including Elmira and Vibbard making a total of 26
January 1905More Rural Mail Routes in Ray County
The Post Office Department ordered eleven new rural routes
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Storm Halted Lawson Picnic
August 16, 1905August 16, 1905 – Storm halted Lawson picnic, damaged brick school, flattened one wall of the new wing of the school that was under construction, and damaged crops and real property.
August 16, 1905Storm Halted Lawson Picnic
Storm halted Lawson picnic
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Negro School Ceased Operations
19061906 – the Negro school ceased operations
1906Negro School Ceased Operations
The Negro school ceased operations
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Missouri Valley Fox Hunt Was Organized
19061906 – The Missouri Valley Fox Hunt was organized
1906Missouri Valley Fox Hunt Was Organized
The Missouri Valley Fox Hunt was organized
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Lawson P.E.O. Organized
February 22, 1906February 22, 1906 – Chapter W.O., Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) was organized in Lawson
February 22, 1906Lawson P.E.O. Organized
Chapter W.O., P.E.O. was organized in Lawson
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Salem Church Building Was Dedicated
September 30, 1906September 30, 1906 – the present Salem church building was dedicated
September 30, 1906Salem Church Building Was Dedicated
The present Salem church building was dedicated
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Jeff E. Deacy
Mayor 1907 - 1908[need photo]
Election day Tuesday, April 2, 1907: Jeff E. Deacy was elected mayor. He was Mayor of Lawson 1907 – 1908.
Deacy was born September 21, 1861, the son of James Deacy and Caroline Sparlock. He died May 14, 1939 at age 77 and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1907 - 1908Jeff E. Deacy
Jeff E. Deacy was Mayor of Lawson 1907 - 1908
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First Sermon in New Presbyterian Church
February 3, 1907February 3, 1907 – The first sermon was given by J. B. Carpenter in the new Presbyterian church.
February 3, 1907First Sermon in New Presbyterian Church
The first sermon was given in the new Presbyterian church.
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Presbyterian Church Building Was Dedicated
May 26, 1907May 26, 1907- The new Presbyterian church building was dedicated
May 26, 1907Presbyterian Church Building Was Dedicated
The new Presbyterian church building was dedicated
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Frank Andrew Waers
Mayor 1909 - 1910[need photo]
Election day, Tuesday, April 6, 1909 Frank Andrew Waers was elected mayor. He was mayor 1909 – 1910 and a Missouri state representative 1941 – 1944.
Waers was born November 25, 1868 in Lawson, the son of William H. Waers and Julia Hines. He married Mary Elizabeth Mimms. On September 2, 1944, he died at age 75 in St. Joseph, and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery in Plattsburg.
Mayor 1909 - 1910Frank Andrew Waers
Frank A. Waers was Mayor of Lawson 1909 - 1910 and later a Missouri state representative.
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Methodist Church Purchased Lots
19091909 – Methodist group purchased Lots 8,9,10 in Block 2 (northeast corner of Fifth & Penn) for a new church (current location in 2020) for $1625
1909Methodist Church Purchased Lots
Methodist group purchased Lots at Fifth & Penn
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Land Sold for $130 Per Acre
19091909 – A tract of land east of town was sold for $130 per acre—the highest price yet paid locally for any farmland.
1909Land Sold for $130 Per Acre
A tract of land east of town was sold for $130 per acre
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Slip Up Christian Church Disbanded
19101910 – Slip Up Christian Church disbanded which added membership to the Lawson Christian Church
1910Slip Up Christian Church Disbanded
Slip Up Christian Church disbanded which added membership
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Boys Scouts of America Founded
1910Boys Scouts of America (BSA) was founded in 1910. The group was inspired by and modeled on the Boy Scout Association established by Baden-Powell in Britain in 1908.
1910Boys Scouts of America Founded
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was founded
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Comet Appeared in the Skies
January 1910January 1910 – An outstanding comet appeared in the western skies
January 1910Comet Appeared in the Skies
An outstanding comet appeared in the western skies
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John Clifton Crowley
Mayor 1911 - 1912On election Tuesday, April 4, 1911, J. C. Crowley was elected mayor the first time. He served as Mayor of Lawson several terms: 1911 – 1912; 1931 – 1932; 1937 – 1945
John Clifton Crowley was born February 27, 1867 in Lawson, the son of John Crowley and Ann Fuller. His wife was Margaret Crowley. On September 12, 1951, he died at age 84 in Lawson and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1911 - 1912John Clifton Crowley
J. C. Crowley served as Mayor of Lawson several terms
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Methodist Church Was Dedicated
November 6, 1911November 6, 1911 – The new Methodist Church on the northeast corner of Fifth & Penn was dedicated
November 6, 1911Methodist Church Was Dedicated
The new Methodist Church was dedicated
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Girl Scouts was Organized in the United States
1912March 12, 1912 – Girl Scouts was organized in the United States by Juliette Gordon Low in Savannah, Georgia
1912Girl Scouts was Organized in the United States
Girl Scouts was organized in the United States
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John McBride Ward
Mayor 1913 - 1914[need photo]
On election Tuesday, April 5, 1913, John McBride Ward, was elected Mayor of Lawson. He served as mayor 1913 – 1914. Ward was in the furniture and undertaking business
Ward was born September 26, 1876, in Dawn, Livingston County, Missouri, the son of Anderson Ward and Rose Ann Bozarth. On October 17, 1939, at age 63, he died in Columbia Missouri and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1913 - 1914John McBride Ward
J. M. Ward served as mayor 1913 - 1914 and was in the furniture and undertaking business
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Power from the Excelsior Springs Light Company
19131913 – Lawson contracted for power from the Excelsior Springs Light Company
1913Power from the Excelsior Springs Light Company
Lawson contracted for power
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Post Office Robbed
19141914 – The post office was robbed of $100
1914Post Office Robbed
The post office was robbed of $100
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Fire Destroyed Brick Block
July 14, 1914July 14, 1914 – fire destroyed the early town records and many of the town’s buildings in Lawson’s first brick block
July 14, 1914Fire Destroyed Brick Block
Fire destroyed the early town records
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Van Wyck Boen
Mayor 1915 - 1916On election day, Tuesday, April 6, 1915, Van Wyck Boen was elected Mayor of Lawson by 48 votes. He served as mayor 1915 – 1916.
Boen was born January 27, 1886. On May 9, 1962 at age 76 he died and is buried in Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Van Wyck BoenMayor 1915 - 1916Van Wyck Boen
Van Wyck Boen served as mayor of Lawson 1915 - 1916.
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A Standard Four Year High School
19151915 – A standard four year high school was in effect.
1915A Standard Four Year High School
A standard four year high school was in effect.
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Bank and Ward Building Reoccupied
May 1915May 1915 – The bank and the Ward building were reoccupied after the fire of 1914, having been rebuilt as one story buildings.
May 1915Bank and Ward Building Reoccupied
Bank and Ward Building Reoccupied after fire
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The Lawson Review
1916 - presentMarch 1916 Sam Halstead bought the Lawson newspaper.
May 4, 1916: Sam R. Halstead, Editor; J. W. Halstead & Sam R. Halstead, Publishers; last issue as Ray County Review.
The name of the newspaper was changed for the May 11, 1916, edition from Ray County Review to The Lawson Review, the name under which it still functions.
September 2, 1920: J. W. Halstead, editor
In 1920 C. M. Marston purchased the newspaper and became editor
C. M. Marston, owner and editor of The Lawson Review, 1920-1924 May 15, 1924: William Addison Black & Alma E. Black, editors & publishers; Black Publishing Company. Mr. and Mrs. Black owned the paper longer than anyone up to that time.
The Blacks sold the Lawson Review to Lawrence and Josephine Matthews, a war veteran and his wife, shortly after peace was declared and bought it back again nine months later.
In 1951 Morton and Corrine Holman purchased The Lawson Review, and Mr. and Mrs. Black retired.
Mr. & Mrs. W. A. Black, editors & publishers of the Lawson Review In October of 1952, Sheldon Hunter, another veteran, and his wife Eloise Glenn Hunter, bought The Lawson Review from the Holmans. Mr. Holman sold out to become a minister of the Methodist Church.
In 1961 Hunter sold it back to the Holmans.
Sheldon Hunter, Editor of The Lawson Review In 1965 the paper was sold to Mr. and Mrs. Winton K. Sexton. The Sextons bought The Lawson Review, The Orrick Sentinel and The Hardin Journal.
Lee Meador resumed ownership of the Hardin Journal and published it until the 1980s.
A group of Lawson buisinessmen formed Lawson Industries, Inc. and they acquired ownership of The Lawson Review and The Orrick Sentinel in 1967. James E. Humbard was employed as general manager of the newspapers.
Lawson Industries, Inc. kept the newspaper running, with various editors and general managers – Don, Howell, Jeannette Marshall and Doug Crews.
Don Howell, Editor; Florence “Flossie” Russell, Assistant Mr. and Mrs. Bryce Bogard purchased The Review from Lawson Industries, Inc. in 1975 and operated it until 1978.
Doug Crews returned to Lawson and became owner of the newspaper.
In 1979 Rogers Hewitt purchased the newspaper. David Blyth became editor and worked with Cress Hewitt for 40 years. The ownership by the Hewitt family was the longest in the history of the newspaper.
October 2019 David Blyth stepped down from his role as editor. Anita Duncan became editor with assistance from her husband, Kenny. Cress Hewitt stayed on as a consultant.
David Blyth & Cress Hewitt Cress Hewitt & David Blyth 1916 - presentThe Lawson Review
The Lawson Review, 1916 to the present
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Electric Lights Installed in City Park
19161916 – Electric lights were installed in the City Park through the efforts of the Civic Improvement Club
1916Electric Lights Installed in City Park
Electric lights were installed in the City Park
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Civic Improvement Club Was Organized
March 1916March 1916 – Lawson Civic Improvement Club was organized
March 1916Civic Improvement Club Was Organized
Lawson Civic Improvement Club was organized
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Last Issue of “Ray County Review”
May 4, 1916May 4, 1916 – Last issue of the newspaper printed as The Ray County Review before the name was changed to The Lawson Review
May 4, 1916Last Issue of “Ray County Review”
Last issue of the The Ray County Review
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First Issue of The Lawson Review
May 11, 1916May 11, 1916 – First issue of the newspaper printed as “The Lawson Review” after it was changed from Ray County Review
May 11, 1916First Issue of The Lawson Review
First issued of The Lawson Review
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City Band
July 1916July 1916 – the newly formed city band held its first concert in the City Park
July 1916City Band
The newly formed city band held its first concert
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Streets Were Oiled
Summer of 19161916 – The first summer the streets of Lawson were oiled – required a carload of oil costing the city $260.
Summer of 1916Streets Were Oiled
The first summer the streets of Lawson were oiled
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Marshall Stock Company Entertained
19161916 – Marshall Stock Company presented a different type program every night
1916Marshall Stock Company Entertained
Marshall Stock Company presented programs
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White and Myers Chautauqua
19161916 – White and Myers Chautauqua was held
1916White and Myers Chautauqua
White and Myers Chautauqua was held
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Virgil Homer Russell
Mayor 1917 - 1918[need better photo]
On election day, Tuesday, April 3, 1917, V. H. Russell was elected mayor. He served as Mayor of Lawson 1917 – 1918. He associated in the produce business with his brother, J. E. Russell.
Russell was born April 6, 1877 near Union, east of Lawson, the son of Dolphus S. and Levisa Russell. He married Mary M. Hartman on December 23, 1897. On June 15, 1935 at age 58 he died and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1917 - 1918Virgil Homer Russell
Virgil H. Russell served as Mayor of Lawson 1917 - 1918 and was in the produce business.
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U.S. Declared War on Germany
April 6, 1917April 6, 1917 – United States declared war on Germany
April 6, 1917U.S. Declared War on Germany
United States declared war on Germany
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Congress Passed Selective Service Act
May 18, 1917May 18, 1917 – Congress passed the Selective Service Act requiring all men in the U.S. between the ages of 21 and 30 to register for military service
May 18, 1917Congress Passed Selective Service Act
Congress passed the Selective Service Act
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Great Flu Epidemic of 1918
19181918 – Great flu epidemic of 1918
1918Great Flu Epidemic of 1918
Great flu epidemic of 1918
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Canaan Hill Church Organized
September 1, 1918September 1, 1918 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene was organized
September 1, 1918Canaan Hill Church Organized
Canaan Hill Church Organized
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Jacob Lincoln Coffman
Mayor 1919 - 1922Jacob Lincoln Coffman was the Mayor of Lawson 1919 – 1922. The 1921 election was won by 25 votes over V. W. Boen. He was the father of Ray R. Coffman who was mayor 1960-1966.
Jacob Lincoln Coffman was born August 16, 1865 in Lancaster, Ohio. He married Luca A. Wallace on November 28, 1888.
In 1898 Coffman became superintendent of schools of Lawson for five years. In 1903 he entered the hardware business which he operated in Lawson for 43 years until he retired at the age of 81 in 1946.
On January 14, 1957 he died and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Jacob Lincoln Coffman Mayor 1919 - 1922Jacob Lincoln Coffman
Jacob Lincoln Coffman was the Mayor of Lawson 1919 - 1922, superintendent of schools, and was a hardware dealer.
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Coal Discovered Near Elmira
19191919 – Rich veins of coal were discovered near Elmira and the mining rights were bought by A. G. Widmer
1919Coal Discovered Near Elmira
Rich veins of coal were discovered near Elmira
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East Fork and Riggs Added Lawson School District
19211921 – East Fork and a part of Riggs district were added to the Lawson school district
1921East Fork and Riggs Added Lawson School District
East Fork and a part of Riggs district were added
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Junior-Senior High School Plan Adopted
19211921 – the Junior-Senior High School plan was adopted
1921Junior-Senior High School Plan Adopted
The Junior-Senior High School plan was adopted
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Methodists Tenth Anniversary of the Church Dedication
November 6, 1921November 6, 1921 – Methodists celebrated their tenth anniversary of the dedication of the church
November 6, 1921Methodists Tenth Anniversary of the Church Dedication
Methodists celebrated their tenth anniversary
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Elmira Was Incorporated
19221922 – Elmira was incorporated
1922Elmira Was Incorporated
Elmira was incorporated
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William Henry “Billie” Meyer
Mayor 1923 - 1924William Henry “Billie” Meyer was Mayor of Lawson 1923 – 1924 (and 3 other terms). Running unopposed in the election held on Tuesday, April 3, 1923 he received 204 votes.
Meyer was born April 21, 1861 in Lauenburg, Germany. He came to the United States in 1883 and located in Richmond, Missouri, where he was employed for five years by Louis Megede, Jeweler and optician.
On April 17, 1886 he married Katherine Meadows and had one child, Wm. J. Meyer.
After moving to Lawson he began his own jewelry business which became one of the oldest businesses in Lawson.
Meyer died February 3, 1927 at age 65 and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
His obituary indicated he served four terms as mayor and six terms as alderman???
William H. MeyerMayor 1923 - 1924William Henry “Billie” Meyer
William H. Meyer served four terms as mayor and six terms as alderman.
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Lebold was Appointed Postmaster
19231923 – Albert Roy Lebold was appointed Postmaster
1923Lebold was Appointed Postmaster
Albert Roy Lebold was appointed Postmaster
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Canaan Hill Church Was Dedicated
19231923 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s first church building was dedicated by by Dr. J. B. Chapman
1923Canaan Hill Church Was Dedicated
Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s first church building
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Jefferson Highway Was Being Built
19241924 – Jefferson Highway was being built with one branch coming down from Cameron and the other from Polo and after meeting in Lawson proceeded southward to Excelsior Springs
1924Jefferson Highway Was Being Built
Jefferson Highway was being built with one branch coming down from Cameron and the other from Polo and after meeting in Lawson proceeded southward to Excelsior Springs
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McDavid-Halstead Bus Line
July 1924July 1924 – the McDavid-Halstead bus line between Lawson and Excelsior Springs began operating
July 1924McDavid-Halstead Bus Line
The McDavid-Halstead bus line between Lawson and Excelsior Springs
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The Memorial Pavilion Was Dedicated
November 9, 1924November 9, 1924 – The Memorial pavilion in the city park was dedicated
November 9, 1924The Memorial Pavilion Was Dedicated
The Memorial pavilion in the city park
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Edwin Shouse
Mayor 1925 - 1930Edwin Shouse was Mayor of Lawson 1925 – 1930. He was first elected on Tuesday, April 7, 1925, and again on Tuesday, April 2, 1929. (and one other term? when?)
Shouse was born December 6, 1875 in Clay County, the son of James O. and Elizabeth (Dagley) Shouse. After graduating from Excelsior Springs High School in 1895, he entered University Medical College of Kansas City. Following his spring of 1899 graduation, he opened his office in Ludlow, Missouri, and in May of that year was married to Susan Caroline Robinett of Lawson.
In 1910 Dr. Shouse returned to his home town to open a long term practice, left for a few years, and then returned in the summer of 1918. This time, he stayed until he died on May 5, 1955
Dr. Shouse’s professional life covered a span of fifty-six years. In recognition of such fact he was given a half century service pin by the Missouri Medical Association, a few years before his death.
A friendly, likable man, he was active in the town’s social life and in church, fraternal, and civic affair.
Edwin Shouse is buried in Lawson Cemetery along with his second wife and family.
Edwin Shouse Mayor 1925 - 1930Edwin Shouse
Edwin Shouse served three terms as Mayor of Lawson and was a doctor for 56 years.
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Blue Jay Highway
19251925 – It was announced that Blue Jay highway would be routed through Lawson, on its way east to a juncture with south running Highway 13
1925Blue Jay Highway
Blue Jay highway would be routed through Lawson
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Petunia Selected As The City Flower
19251925 – The Petunia was selected as the city flower by the Civic Improvement Club
1925Petunia Selected As The City Flower
The Petunia was selected as the city flower
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Home Talent Chautauqua
19251925 – Civic Improvement club put on a home talent Chautauqua
1925Home Talent Chautauqua
Civic Improvement club put on a home talent Chautauqua
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St. Louis Good Will Tour
May 20, 1925May 20, 1925 – Lawson was one of 49 towns visited during the annual St. Louis Good Will Tour
May 20, 1925St. Louis Good Will Tour
Lawson was one of 49 towns visited
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Commercial Bank Closed
May 4, 1926May 4, 1926 – Commercial Bank of Lawson was ordered closed by the directors and bank commissioner.
May 4, 1926Commercial Bank Closed
Commercial Bank of Lawson was ordered closed
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Elmira’s New School
19271927 – Elmira’s new two room school house was ready for occupancy
1927Elmira’s New School
Elmira’s new two room school house
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Lawson Cemetery Association Is Incorporated
November 28, 1930November 28, 1930 – Lawson Cemetery Association received its Certificate of Incorporation as a Benevolent Corporation
November 28, 1930Lawson Cemetery Association Is Incorporated
Lawson Cemetery Association received its Certificate of Incorporation
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John Clifton Crowley
Mayor 1931 - 1932On election Tuesday, April 4, 1911, J. C. Crowley was elected mayor the first time. He served as Mayor of Lawson several terms: 1911 – 1912; 1931 – 1932; 1937 – 1945
John Clifton Crowley was born February 27, 1867 in Lawson, the son of John Crowley and Ann Fuller. His wife was Margaret Crowley. On September 12, 1951, he died at age 84 in Lawson and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1931 - 1932John Clifton Crowley
J. C. Crowley served as Mayor of Lawson several terms
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Free Text Books In Schools
19311931 – Free text books were voted in for the schools
1931Free Text Books In Schools
Free text books were voted in for the schools
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Rock Island Railroad
19311931 – The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad came through in 1931, having made contract with the Milwaukee for use of its depot and other facilities within the town limits
1931Rock Island Railroad
The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad came through
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Highway 69 Completed
19311931 – Highway 69 was completed through West Lawson
1931Highway 69 Completed
Highway 69 was completed through West Lawson
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Lawson Boy Scout Troup Founded
May 31, 1931May 31, 1931 – Scout Troop 308 of Lawson, Missouri was founded by Sam C. Sherwood, first Scoutmaster was J. George Sexton
May 31, 1931Lawson Boy Scout Troup Founded
Boy Scout Troop 308 of Lawson
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Slag Used to Surface Roads
19321932 – Slag from the Elmira coal line was used to surface the roads from Elmira to D Highway, west through Lawson to U.S. Hwy 69
1932Slag Used to Surface Roads
Slag from the Elmira coal mine was used to surface the roads
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George Allen Rhodus
Mayor 1933 - 1936George Allen Rhodus served as Mayor of Lawson 1933 – 1936 and 1951 – February 15, 1955.
He was born July 18, 1892, the son of George Allen and Rose Ella (Rogers) Rhodus. In 1955 he resigned as mayor to become the superintendent of the Lawson water system, a position he held for 16 years before retiring in 1972.
He lived in Lawson his entire lifetime. On January 21, 1979 he died at age 86 and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
George Allen Rhodus Mayor 1933 - 1936George Allen Rhodus
George Allen Rhodus served as mayor 1933 – 1936 and again in 1951 – February 15, 1955.
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Lawson Bank Reopened after National Bank Holiday
March 13, 1933March 13, 1933 – Lawson Bank re-opened after the national bank holiday of March 6-10, 1933. Franklin Delano Roosevelt proclaimed a Bank Holiday beginning March 6, 1933, that shut down the banking system. When the banks reopened on March 13
March 13, 1933Lawson Bank Reopened after National Bank Holiday
Lawson Bank re-opened after the bank holiday
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Subsistence Seed Home Gardens
19351935 – subsistence seed home gardens were being distributed to needy families
1935Subsistence Seed Home Gardens
Subsistence seed home gardens were being distributed
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Three Mail Routes Became Two
19351935 – the three local mail routes became two, which transferred still another carrier, and local citizen, to Excelsior Springs
1935Three Mail Routes Became Two
The three local mail routes became two
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Red Dust Was Filling the Air
1935The Dust Bowl, also known as “the Dirty Thirties,” started in 1930 and lasted for about a decade, but its long-term economic impacts on the region lingered much longer.
The worst dust storm occurred on April 14, 1935. News reports called the event Black Sunday. A wall of blowing sand and dust started in the Oklahoma Panhandle and spread east. As many as three million tons of topsoil are estimated to have blown off the Great Plains during Black Sunday.
1935Red Dust Was Filling the Air
The Dust Bowl, also known as “the Dirty Thirties,” started in 1930
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Lawson’s First Teacher Died
March 11, 1936March 11, 1936 – Lawson’s first teacher, Lutie Palmer, died and was laid to rest in the Lawson cemetery.
March 11, 1936Lawson’s First Teacher Died
Lawson’s first teacher, Lutie Palmer, died
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John Clifton Crowley
Mayor 1937 - 1945On election Tuesday, April 4, 1911, J. C. Crowley was elected mayor the first time. He served as Mayor of Lawson several terms: 1911 – 1912; 1931 – 1932; 1937 – 1945
John Clifton Crowley was born February 27, 1867 in Lawson, the son of John Crowley and Ann Fuller. His wife was Margaret Crowley. On September 12, 1951, he died at age 84 in Lawson and is buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1937 - 1945John Clifton Crowley
J. C. Crowley served as Mayor of Lawson several terms
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School Busses Were Added
19371937 – School busses were added by the Lawson District
1937School Busses Were Added
School busses were added by the Lawson District
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Rebekah Lodge Received Its Charter
June 14, 1938June 14, 1938 – The Rebekah lodge received its charter and the I.O.O.F. allowed them to use the lodge hall quarters.
June 14, 1938Rebekah Lodge Received Its Charter
The Rebekah lodge received its charter
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Bond Issue for New Water System
November 1938November 1938 – Voters approved a bond issue of $25,000 for a new water system
November 1938Bond Issue for New Water System
November 1938 – Voters approved a bond issue of $25,000 for a new water system
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Lawson Girl Scout Troop Organized
November 1, 1939November 1, 1939 – The first Girl Scout troop was organized.
November 1, 1939Lawson Girl Scout Troop Organized
November 1, 1939 - The first Girl Scout troop in Lawson was organized.
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Lawson Rotary Club was organized
April 8, 1941April 8, 1941 – Lawson Rotary Club was organized
April 8, 1941Lawson Rotary Club was organized
Lawson Rotary Club was organized
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Cub Scouts Organized
19421942 – The Cub Scouts were first organized in Lawson with Raymond Grove, Cubmaster
1942Cub Scouts Organized
The Cub Scouts were first organized in Lawson
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Assembly of God Church Was Organized
February 4, 1943February 4, 1943 – Assembly of God Church was organized
February 4, 1943Assembly of God Church Was Organized
February 4, 1943 – Assembly of God Church was organized
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Canaan Hill Church Building Destroyed by Fire
19451945 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s first church building destroyed by fire
1945Canaan Hill Church Building Destroyed by Fire
Canaan Hill Church building destroyed by fire
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P.T.A. Was Organized
19461946 – Parent Teachers Association (P.T.A.) was organized
1946P.T.A. Was Organized
Parent Teachers Association (P.T.A.) was organized in Lawson
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Claude Manford Clark
Mayor 1946 - 1949[Need a Photo]
Claude Manford Clark served two terms as Mayor of Lawson 1946 – 1949.
He was born December 16, 1887, the son of John L. and Louisa E. Clark. In 1911 he married Maude Mae Hartpence. On February 27, 1950 he died and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Mayor 1946 - 1949Claude Manford Clark
Claude Manford Clark served two terms as Mayor of Lawson 1946 - 1949.
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Rakla Shrine Club Was Organized
March 1946March 1946 – Rakla Shrine Club was organized
March 1946Rakla Shrine Club Was Organized
Rakla Shrine Club was organized
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V.F.W. Post 9065 Was Organized
February 15, 1947February 15, 1947 – Lawson Memorial Post No. 9065 V.F.W was organized.
February 15, 1947V.F.W. Post 9065 Was Organized
Lawson Memorial Post No. 9065 V.F.W was organized
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Beta Sigma Phi Was Organized
September 18, 1947September 18, 1947 – Delta Zeta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi was organized in Lawson
September 18, 1947Beta Sigma Phi Was Organized
Delta Zeta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi was organized
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Gymnasium – Auditorium Was Added to the School
19491949 – A gymnasium-auditorium extension was added to the school on Fourth & Allison
1949Gymnasium – Auditorium Was Added to the School
A gymnasium-auditorium extension was added
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Elmira Coal Mine Closed
19491949 – the Elmira coal mine closed for good
1949Elmira Coal Mine Closed
The Elmira coal mine closed for good
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V.F.W. Post Bought A Lot To Build a Post
June 1949June 1949 – V.F.W. Post No. 9065 bought one of the lots on the south side of Third street and across from park and built a one story brick post hall.
June 1949V.F.W. Post Bought A Lot To Build a Post
V.F.W. Post No. 9065 bought a lot across from the park
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Land Was Bought for an Athletic Field
June 1949June 1949 -Ten acres of land on the north side of Sixth street were bought for an athletic field.
June 1949Land Was Bought for an Athletic Field
Ten acres of land were bought for an athletic field
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Presbyterian Church Celebrated Its Centennial
June 1949June 1949 – The Presbyterian Church celebrated its centennial
June 1949Presbyterian Church Celebrated Its Centennial
The Presbyterian Church celebrated its centennial
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Graham, Murray and Bisbee Annexed into Lawson Schools
December 1949December 1949 – Country schools began annexing into the Lawson School district as per decision of State Educational Department. Graham, Murray and Bisbee annexed into Lawson
December 1949Graham, Murray and Bisbee Annexed into Lawson Schools
Country schools began annexing into the Lawson School district
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Andrew Wallace “Jack” Jarman
Mayor 1950 - 1951Andrew Wallace “Jack” Jarman served as Mayor of Lawson 1950 – 1951
He was born October 22, 1893 in Lawson, the son of James Palestine Jarman and Sarah Martha (Rhodus) Jarman. On October 22, 1920 he married Mary Ellen Gray in Lathrop.
He and Claude Prichard founded the Jarman Funeral home in Lawson in 1936 and had continued its ownership and management after Prichard’s death in 1956. Jarman also operated Lawson Barber Shop for 52 years.
Jarman was a Army veteran of WWI, serving as a sergeant with the 89th division.
On September 5, 1976 he died in Excelsior Springs and was buried in Lawson Cemetery
Andrew Wallace “Jack” Jarman Andrew Wallace “Jack” Jarman Mayor 1950 - 1951Andrew Wallace “Jack” Jarman
Jack Jarman served as Mayor of Lawson 1950 - 1951, operated Lawson Barber Shop, and was co-founder of Jarman Funeral Home.
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Union, Butler and Riggs Were Annexed into Lawson schools
19511951 – Union, Butler and the rest of Riggs district were annexed into Lawson schools
1951Union, Butler and Riggs Were Annexed into Lawson schools
Union, Butler and the rest of Riggs district
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George Allen Rhodus
Mayor 1951 - 1955George Allen Rhodus served as Mayor of Lawson 1933 – 1936 and 1951 – February 15, 1955.
He was born July 18, 1892, the son of George Allen and Rose Ella (Rogers) Rhodus. In 1955 he resigned as mayor to become the superintendent of the Lawson water system, a position he held for 16 years before retiring in 1972.
He lived in Lawson his entire lifetime. On January 21, 1979 he died at age 86 and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
George Allen Rhodus Mayor 1951 - 1955George Allen Rhodus
George Allen Rhodus served as mayor 1933 – 1936 and 1951 – February 15, 1955.
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Canaan Hill’s Second Church Was Dedicated
February 25, 1951February 25, 1951 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s second church building was dedicated by Dr. Jarrette Aycock
February 25, 1951Canaan Hill’s Second Church Was Dedicated
Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s second church building
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Bonds for the Municipal Water System
1952The City of Lawson voted bonds for the installation of a municipal water system
1952Bonds for the Municipal Water System
City of Lawson voted bonds for the municipal water system
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50th Annual Lawson Picnic
August 13, 1952August 13, 1952 – 50th Annual Lawson Picnic sponsored by the Odd Fellows and Modern Woodmen Lodges
August 13, 195250th Annual Lawson Picnic
50th Annual Lawson Picnic sponsored
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Order of Eastern Star Was Instituted
June 17, 1953June 17, 1953 – Lawson chapter of Order of Eastern Star (O.E.S.) was instituted
June 17, 1953Order of Eastern Star Was Instituted
Lawson Chapter of Order of Eastern Star
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From Entry Fee to Fifty Three
August 2, 1953August 2, 1953 – The women of the Lawson Christian church sponsored publication of FROM ENTRY FEE TO FIFTY THREE: A History of Lawson’s Three County Community—a book written to commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the first church building’s dedication.
August 2, 1953From Entry Fee to Fifty Three
The women of the Lawson Christian church sponsored publication
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$103,000 Bond Issue Approved for Water System
September 16, 1953September 16, 1953 – Voters approved a $103,000 bond issue for the a new water system (1938 were cancelled)
September 16, 1953$103,000 Bond Issue Approved for Water System
Voters approved a $103,000 bond issue for the a new water system
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Order of Eastern Star Was Constituted
November 12, 1953November 12, 1953 – Lawson Chapter No. 549 of Order of Eastern Star (O.E.S.) was constituted
November 12, 1953Order of Eastern Star Was Constituted
Lawson Chapter No. 549 of Order of Eastern Star
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Klever Kraft Extension Club Was Organized
19541954 – Klever Kraft Ray County Extension Club was organized
1954Klever Kraft Extension Club Was Organized
Klever Kraft Ray County Extension Club was organized
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Train Depot in Elmira Was Torn Down
19541954 – The train depot in Elmira was torn down
1954Train Depot in Elmira Was Torn Down
The train depot in Elmira was torn down
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Bonds for Water System Sold
May 1, 1954May 1, 1954 – the bonds for a new water system approved September 16, 1952 for $103,000 were dated May 1, 1954
May 1, 1954Bonds for Water System Sold
The bonds for a new water system were dated May 1, 1954
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Land Was Purchased for Water System
July 1, 1954July 1, 1954 – the City of Lawson purchased from George and Velma Sexton 111.2 acres in Sections 30 and 31 of Township 54, Range 29, for the sum of $16,750. An easement clause, related to footage over the railroads’ pipeline was included in the transaction.
(April 12)
July 1, 1954Land Was Purchased for Water System
The City purchased 111.2 acres on which the railroad pond lay
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$25,000 Water Plant Bonds Sold
July 12, 1954July 12, 1954 – the city sold twenty-five $1,000 water plant bonds to the George K. Baum Company of Kansas City
July 12, 1954$25,000 Water Plant Bonds Sold
The city sold twenty-five $1,000 water plant bonds
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Voters Approved Revenue Bonds For Water Plant
November 9, 1954November 9, 1954 – Voters approved Revenue bonds of $15,000 for developing a municipal water plant and went into force on December 7, 1955
November 9, 1954Voters Approved Revenue Bonds For Water Plant
Voters approved Revenue bonds of $15,000 for developing a municipal water plant
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Canaan Hill’s Parsonage Completed
19551955 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s parsonage was completed
1955Canaan Hill’s Parsonage Completed
Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s parsonage was completed
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Methodists Purchased An Organ
19551955 – The Methodists purchased a Hammond organ for the sanctuary
1955Methodists Purchased An Organ
1955 – The Methodists purchased a Hammond organ for the sanctuary
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Rollie Elmer Hartman
Acting Mayor 1955Rollie Elmer Hartman was acting Mayor of Lawson March 1 to April 1955 and served as an alderman for 30 years.
He was born May 13, 1894 at Elmo, Kansas, the son of John and Roletta (Dautel) Hartman. He married Winnie Hamilton on September 5, 1917.
He became a druggist obtaining his license in 1918. During World War I he served as a regiment druggist, Medical Attachment, 210th Engineers.
On November 15, 1959 he died at Excelsior Springs Hospital at the age of 65 and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Rollie Elmer Hartman Rollie Elmer Hartman Acting Mayor 1955Rollie Elmer Hartman
Rollie Elmer Hartman was acting mayor March 1 to April 1955 and served as an alderman for 30 years.
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Thomas Dudley Williamson
Mayor 1955 - 1960Thomas Dudley Williamson served as Mayor of Lawson 1955 – 1960.
He was born in Mayview, Missouri, the son of Thomas D. and Minnie Williamson. His wife was Helen (Risley) Williamson.
During his tenure as mayor he helped obtain the Lawson Army Nike missile base and a municipal water system. As head of the town which grew from 474 population in 1950 to 773 in 1960, he guided the civic activities needed to meet the growth caused by the missile base and the new population brought by an improved Highway 69 to Kansas City. He had the idea of formulating the Lawson Development Company which set out to build 17 homes for the missile base top personnel.
At the time of his unexpected death on July 10, 1960, he was president of the Ray County Library Board and Lawson Bank in addition to being in his third term as mayor. He was buried in Mount Moriah Cemetery in Kansas City.
Thomas Dudley Williamson Mayor 1955 - 1960Thomas Dudley Williamson
Thomas Dudley Williamson served as Mayor of Lawson 1955 – 1960. During his tenure as mayor he helped obtain the Lawson Army Nike missile base and a municipal water system.
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Quit Claim Deeds Railroad Pond
January 1955January 1955 – Quit Claim Deeds for all lease rights over the railroad pond were received from both transportation lines
January 1955Quit Claim Deeds Railroad Pond
Quit Claim Deeds for all lease rights over the railroad pond were received
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Water Plant Contractor Selected
March 24, 1955March 24, 1955 – Sealed bids for construction of the water plant were opened and H. L. Pelton Construction Company of Springdale, Arkansas, was given the contract.
March 24, 1955Water Plant Contractor Selected
Sealed bids for construction of the water plant were opened
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Construction Began on Water Plant
May 3, 1955May 3, 1955 – Construction began on the new water plant
May 3, 1955Construction Began on Water Plant
Construction began on the new water plant
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Volunteer Fire Department Organized
May 23, 1955May 23, 1955 – The Lawson Volunteer Fire Department was organized
May 23, 1955Volunteer Fire Department Organized
The Lawson Volunteer Fire Department was organized
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B.P. W. Was Organized
October 24, 1955October 24, 1955 – The Lawson Business and Professional Women (B.P.W.) was organized
October 24, 1955B.P. W. Was Organized
Business and Professional Women (B.P.W.) was organized
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Voters Approved More Bonds to Complete Water System
November 9, 1955November 9, 1955 – Voters approved $14,000 in General Obligation bonds that were needed to complete the water system
November 9, 1955Voters Approved More Bonds to Complete Water System
Voters approved $14,000 in General Obligation bonds
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Revenue Bonds For Water Plant
December 7, 1955December 7, 1955 – Revenue Bonds of $15,000 for the municipal water plant which had been approved November 9, 1954 went into force
December 7, 1955Revenue Bonds For Water Plant
Revenue Bonds of $15,000 for the municipal water plant
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More Bonds Approved for Water System
December 9, 1955December 9, 1955 – Voters unanimously approved General Obligation Bond Issue of $14,000 for additional work needed on the water system
December 9, 1955More Bonds Approved for Water System
Voters unanimously approved General Obligation Bond Issue of $14,000
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First Water Service Connections Completed
1956early 1956 – first resident service connections with the public water system were completed and the water plant was in general use by April 1956
1956First Water Service Connections Completed
First resident service connections with the public water system were completed
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P.E.O. Held 50th Anniversary Tea
February 19, 1956February 19, 1956 – Chapter A.O., P.E.O. held their fiftieth Anniversary tea
February 19, 1956P.E.O. Held 50th Anniversary Tea
Chapter A.O., P.E.O. held their fiftieth Anniversary tea
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Sewerage Disposal Rules Established
March 6, 1956March 6, 1956 – Specific rules and regulations governing sewerage disposal within the town limits were set forth in a city ordinance
March 6, 1956Sewerage Disposal Rules Established
Specific rules and regulations governing sewerage disposal
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First Water Receipts Were Collected
May 1, 1956May 1, 1956 – The City of Lawson collected the first receipts from users of city water.
May 1, 1956First Water Receipts Were Collected
The City of Lawson collected the first receipts from users of city water
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Waterama Jubilee
May 5, 1956May 5, 1956 – Waterama Jubilee was held celebrating the new water system
May 5, 1956Waterama Jubilee
Waterama Jubilee was held celebrating the new water system
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New Presbyterian Manse Was Completed
June 1956June 1956 – The new Presbyterian manse, built between the church and the 1898 manse, was first occupied by Vernon Bowman and his family.
June 1956New Presbyterian Manse Was Completed
The new Presbyterian manse was first occupied
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South Addition Was Annexed
December 29, 1956December 29, 1956 – Voters approved the annexing of land adjacent to the south limits of Lawson to be known as the South Addition
December 29, 1956South Addition Was Annexed
Voters approved the annexing of land adjacent to the south limits
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Elmira Schools Were Annexed into Lawson
19571957 – Elmira schools were annexed into the Lawson school district
1957Elmira Schools Were Annexed into Lawson
Elmira schools were annexed into the Lawson school district
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Cox Addition Plat Approved
June 11, 1957June 11, 1957 – Board of Alderman approved a plat of the proposed Cox addition
June 11, 1957Cox Addition Plat Approved
Board of Alderman approved a plat
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Groundbreaking Services for Baptist Church Education Unit
July 30, 1958July 30, 1958 – groundbreaking services were held for the Baptist Church Education unit at Third and Ingles
July 30, 1958Groundbreaking Services for Baptist Church Education Unit
Groundbreaking services were held for the Baptist Church Education unit
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Bee Hive Lodge Purchased Building Site
September 1957September 1957 – Land was purchased for the future home of the Bee Hive Lodge and Rakla Shrine Club (lower level is currently the post office)
September 1957Bee Hive Lodge Purchased Building Site
Bee Hive Lodge and Rakla Shrine Club purchased land for future building site
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Rotary Club Installed Street Signs
October 1957October 1957 – the town board granted the Lawson Rotary Club permission to install street signs in the city.
October 1957Rotary Club Installed Street Signs
The town board granted the Lawson Rotary Club permission
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Second Baptist Church Organized
October 13, 1957October 13, 1957 – the second Baptist Church was constituted as a church with 33 charter members
October 13, 1957Second Baptist Church Organized
The second Baptist Church was constituted as a church
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Christian Church Bought An Organ
19581958 – The Christian Church bought a Baldwin organ
1958Christian Church Bought An Organ
The Christian Church bought a Baldwin organ
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Christian Church Bought a Parsonage.
19581958 – The Christian Church bought a parsonage.
1958Christian Church Bought a Parsonage.
The Christian Church bought a parsonage.
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Land Was Purchased for High School Building Site
January 1958January 1958 – Fifteen acres of land north of the Athletic field was purchased as the site of a separate high school building.
January 1958Land Was Purchased for High School Building Site
Fifteen acres purchased as the site for high school building
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Bond Issue Approved for High School
April 1958April 1958 – a $315,000 bond issue was voted for a separate high school building,
April 1958Bond Issue Approved for High School
A $315,000 bond issue was approved
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Watkins’ Farm Sold At Auction
May 6, 1958May 6, 1958 – Watkins’ family farm was sold at auction; George Stilley of Kansas City bought the land and the management of Allis Chalmers in Independence bought the mill contents
May 6, 1958Watkins’ Farm Sold At Auction
Watkins’ family farm was sold at auction; George Stilley
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Bee Hive Building Collapsed
June 11, 1958June 11, 1958 – Bee Hive building collapsed (Lot 6, Block 8)
June 11, 1958Bee Hive Building Collapsed
Bee Hive building collapsed
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Fire Warning System Approved
July 3, 1958July 3, 1958 – the Board voted to accept a fire warning system submitted by the General Telephone Company for the newly installed dial system
July 3, 1958Fire Warning System Approved
The Board voted to accept a fire warning system
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Baptist Purchase Land
July 20, 1958July 20, 1958 – the trustees of the second Baptist Church were instructed to purchase the property at the corner of Third and Ingles
July 20, 1958Baptist Purchase Land
The trustees of the second Baptist Church were instructed
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Land South of Moss Additions was Annexed
November 25, 1958November 25, 1958 – Voters approved the annexing of 26 acres south of the Moss addition.
November 25, 1958Land South of Moss Additions was Annexed
Voters approved the annexing of 26 acres
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Baptist Education Unit Was Completed
December 24, 1958December 24, 1958 – construction on the Baptist Church Education unit was completed
December 24, 1958Baptist Education Unit Was Completed
Construction on the Baptist Church Education unit was completed
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Presbyterians Purchased an Organ
19591959 – the Presbyterian purchased an electric organ
1959Presbyterians Purchased an Organ
The Presbyterians purchased an electric organ
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Elmira Post Office Closed
19591959 – the postal service in Elmira was discontinued and became a part of Lawson’s post office
1959Elmira Post Office Closed
The postal service in Elmira was discontinued
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School Had only Elementary Classes for the First Time
1959-1960 School YearFor the first time the school at Fourth and Allison had only elementary classes during the 1959-1960 school year.
1959-1960 School YearSchool Had only Elementary Classes for the First Time
The school had only elementary classes
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Water Line to Nike Base Approved
May 21, 1959May 21, 1959 – the mayor and clerk of the City of Lawson were authorized to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Government for the construction of a water line to the Nike base
May 21, 1959Water Line to Nike Base Approved
Approval was give for a water line to the Nike base
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The New High School Opened
September 1959September 1959 – the new high school opened
September 1959The New High School Opened
The new high school opened
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Nike Missile Base Opened
November 1959November 1959 – Nike Missile base opened
November 1959Nike Missile Base Opened
Nike Missile base opened
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1960 – Kitchen Space Added to the High School
19601960 – Kitchen space was added to the high school.
19601960 – Kitchen Space Added to the High School
Kitchen space was added to the high school
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Walter Gaines Moss
Acting Mayor 1960Walter Gaines Moss was acting Mayor of Lawson in 1960 and was serving his third term on the Lawson city council when he died.
Moss was born August 16, 1883 in Ray County, the son of Oscar White and Ella May (Sanderson) Moss. A retired merchant from Claycomo, Moss lived in Lawson 15 years. He married Ella Hunt on March 2, 1902.
On February 24, 1963 Moss died in Richmond and was buried in Old Union Cemetery.
Walter Gaines Moss Acting Mayor 1960Walter Gaines Moss
Walter Gaines Moss was acting Mayor of Lawson in 1960 and was serving his third term on the Lawson city council when he died.
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Robert Ray Coffman
Mayor 1960 - 1966Robert Ray Coffman became Mayor of Lawson after a special election was held on August 16, 1960, to fill the office of mayor after the death of Thomas Dudley Williamson. The vote was 124 – 14. He served as Mayor 1960-1966.
Coffman was born September 4, 1894, the son of Jacob Lincoln Coffman (Mayor of Lawson 1919-1923) and Lucy Adeline (Wallace) Coffman. He served in the 352nd Infantry, 88th Division.
On November 10, 1984 he died and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Robert Ray Coffman Robert Ray Coffman Mayor 1960 - 1966Robert Ray Coffman
Robert Ray Coffman served as Mayor of Lawson 1960-1966.
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Director of Civil Defense Appointed
March 1, 1960March 1, 1960 – Noel T. Adams was appointed Director of Civil Defense for the City of Lawson.
March 1, 1960Director of Civil Defense Appointed
Noel T. Adams was appointed Director of Civil Defense
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Xi Beta Tau Exemplar Chapter
March 29, 1960March 29, 1960 – the Delta Zeta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi became Xi Beta Tau Exemplar Chapter
March 29, 1960Xi Beta Tau Exemplar Chapter
The Delta Zeta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi became
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Masonic Temple Incorporates
September 12, 1960September 12, 1960 – Bee Hive Masonic Temple Association was issued its Certificate of Incorporation
September 12, 1960Masonic Temple Incorporates
Bee Hive Masonic Temple Association was issued
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Sexton Addition Plat Approved
November 29, 1960November 29, 1960 – Board of Alderman approved a plat of the proposed Sexton addition
November 29, 1960Sexton Addition Plat Approved
Board of Alderman approved Sexton addition
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North City Limits Extended
April 4, 1961April 4, 1961 – Voters approved extending the north city limits to include what is now Jefferson Heights.
April 4, 1961North City Limits Extended
Voters approved extending the north city limits
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Building Inspector Appointed
May 6, 1961May 6, 1961 – Kenneth Dossett was appointed building inspector for Lawson (the first one??)
May 6, 1961Building Inspector Appointed
Kenneth Dossett was appointed building inspector
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Construction Began on Bee Hive Building
June 1961June 1961 – Construction began on the Bee Hive & Shrine Club building
June 1961Construction Began on Bee Hive Building
Construction began on the Bee Hive building
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Pennsylvania Avenue Extended
June 24, 1961June 24, 1961 – an ordinance was passed extending Pennsylvania Avenue across the Santa Fe tracks and on to the south city limits.
June 24, 1961Pennsylvania Avenue Extended
An ordinance was passed extending Pennsylvania
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Pennsylvania Opened Across Tracks
September 5, 1961September 5, 1961 – Public Service Commission ordered the opening of Pennsylvania Avenue across the Santa Fe tracks
September 5, 1961Pennsylvania Opened Across Tracks
Public Service Commission ordered the opening of Pennsylvania Avenue
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Gas Service Company Franchise Approved
October 24, 1961October 24, 1961 – Voters approved granting a franchise to the Gas Service Company to furnish natural gas to the city of Lawson
October 24, 1961Gas Service Company Franchise Approved
Voters approved granting a franchise to the Gas Service Company
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Post Office Open House
November 4, 1961November 4, 1961 – Open House to view new quarters of the Lawson Post Office in the new Masonic building.
November 4, 1961Post Office Open House
Open House to view new Post Office
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Curb & Guttering Considered
November 15, 1961November 15, 1961 – the Board considered a proposal to lay curb and guttering on Pennsylvania Avenue, from Sixth to the Santa Fe tracks
November 15, 1961Curb & Guttering Considered
The Board considered a proposal to lay curb and guttering
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Curb & Guttering Completed
19621962 – Curb and guttering on Pennsylvania Avenue, from Sixth street to the Santa Fe tracks was completed
1962Curb & Guttering Completed
Curb and guttering on Pennsylvania Avenue completed
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Bonds Approved for Sewer And Water System
February 13, 1962February 13, 1962 – Voters approved the issuance of $130,000 in General Obligation bonds and $100,000 in Revenue bonds, for the purpose of constructing a sewer and water system.
February 13, 1962Bonds Approved for Sewer And Water System
Voters approved the issuance of $130,000 in General Obligation bonds
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Grants Approved for Sewer & Water System
July 16, 1962July 16, 1962 – the city received approval for a Federal grant of $164,000 and a Federal Pollution Board grant of $55,000 for the installation of the sewer and water system
July 16, 1962Grants Approved for Sewer & Water System
The city received approval for a Federal grant
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Morrow Addition Plat Approved
August 20, 1962August 20, 1962 – Board of Alderman approved a plat of the proposed Morrow addition
August 20, 1962Morrow Addition Plat Approved
Board of Alderman approved Morrow addition
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City Planning Commission Established
October 1, 1962October 1, 1962 – an ordinance was passed to establish a City Planning Commission
October 1, 1962City Planning Commission Established
An ordinance was passed to establish a City Planning Commission
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Contractor Approved for Sewer & Water System
November 7, 1962November 7, 1962 – bids for building the proposed sewer and water system were opened and one was approved.
November 7, 1962Contractor Approved for Sewer & Water System
Bids for building the proposed sewer and water system were opened
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Methodists Added Nursery Service
19631963 – The Methodist Church added nursery service for young mothers
1963Methodists Added Nursery Service
The Methodist Church added nursery service for young mothers
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Canaan Hill Church Building Razed
June 17, 1963June 17 1963 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s second building was torn down
June 17, 1963Canaan Hill Church Building Razed
Canaan Hill Church's second building was torn down
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Assembly of God Church Purchased Land
June 19, 1963June 19, 1963 – Assembly of God Church purchased five acres of land where the church now sets.
June 19, 1963Assembly of God Church Purchased Land
Assembly of God Church purchased five acres of land where the church now sets
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ZIP Codes Introduced
July 1, 1963July 1, 1963 –five-digit ZIP Codes were introduced nationwide
July 1, 1963ZIP Codes Introduced
Five-digit ZIP Codes were introduced
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Bond Issue Approved for Additions to the School
October 1963October 1963 – a $85,000 bond issue was approved for additions to the School building
October 1963Bond Issue Approved for Additions to the School
A $85,000 bond issue was approved for additions to the school building
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Two Letter State Abbreviations Were Introduced
October 1, 1963October 1, 1963 – the two letter state abbreviations were introduced to be used with the ZIP codes
October 1, 1963Two Letter State Abbreviations Were Introduced
The two letter state abbreviations were introduced
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First Service in New Canaan Hill Church
October 26, 1963October 26, 1963 – the first service was held in the newly built Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s third church building
October 26, 1963First Service in New Canaan Hill Church
The first service was held in the newly built Canaan Hill Church
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Eastern Pleasant Grove Annexed into the Lawson District
19641964 – The eastern part of Pleasant Grove became a part of the Lawson district.
1964Eastern Pleasant Grove Annexed into the Lawson District
The eastern part of Pleasant Grove school
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Watkins Mill Became a State Historic Site
19641964 – Watkins Mill became a State Historic Site
1964Watkins Mill Became a State Historic Site
1964 – Watkins Mill became a State Historic Site
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Nike Missile Base Closed
February 1964February 1964 – Nike Missile Base closed
February 1964Nike Missile Base Closed
Nike Missile Base closed
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Dedication of the Canaan Hill Church
April 19, 1964April 19, 1964 – The formal dedication of the Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene’s new church was held
April 19, 1964Dedication of the Canaan Hill Church
The formal dedication of the Canaan Hill Church
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Baptist Church Purchased a Parsonage
July 1964July 1964 – the Baptist church purchased a parsonage located at 536 East Fifth Street
July 1964Baptist Church Purchased a Parsonage
The Baptist church purchased a parsonage
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Wilderness Camp was Created
September 14, 1964September 14, 1964 – Wilderness was created by the Missouri Conference of The United Methodist Church. It provides summer camp opportunities for children and youth and is available to groups of all sizes for retreats, camping, and recreational activities.
On October 21, 2015, the camp was purchased by the Wilderness Camping and Retreat Association (WCRA) and was officially granted 501(c)3 status.
September 14, 1964Wilderness Camp was Created
Wilderness was createdby the Missouri Conference
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Lawson Swim Club Granted Building Permit
19651965 – A building permit was granted the Lawson Swim Club for the building of a private pool in Lawson
1965Lawson Swim Club Granted Building Permit
A building permit was granted the Lawson Swim Club
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New Street Lights were Installed
19651965 – New street lights were installed
1965New Street Lights were Installed
New street lights were installed
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Assembly of God Church Was Completed
January 10, 1965January 10, 1965 – The new Assembly of God Church was completed (2020 current location but not the same building??)
January 10, 1965Assembly of God Church Was Completed
The new Assembly of God Church was completed
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The Educational Wing of the Presbyterian Church was Dedicated
April 18, 1965April 18, 1965 – The new educational wing of the Presbyterian Church was dedicated
April 18, 1965The Educational Wing of the Presbyterian Church was Dedicated
The new educational wing of the Presbyterian Church was dedicated
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Lawson Swim Club was Organized as a Nonprofit Corporation
June 29, 1965June 29, 1965 – Lawson Swim Club was organized as a nonprofit corporation
June 29, 1965Lawson Swim Club was Organized as a Nonprofit Corporation
Lawson Swim Club was organized as a nonprofit corporation
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The Urban Renewal Board was Appointed
October 5, 1965October 5, 1965 – the Urban Renewal Board was appointed
October 5, 1965The Urban Renewal Board was Appointed
The Urban Renewal Board was appointed
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Methodists Celebrated the Centennial of the Two Rural Classes
October 10, 1965October 10, 1965 – The Methodists celebrated the centennial of the original founding of the two rural classes
October 10, 1965Methodists Celebrated the Centennial of the Two Rural Classes
The Methodists celebrated the centennial
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A High School P.T.A. was Organized
March 3, 1966March 3, 1966 – A High School P.T.A. was organized
March 3, 1966A High School P.T.A. was Organized
A High School P.T.A. was organized
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First Services in the New Baptist Church
July 17, 1966July 17, 1966 – the first services were held in the new Baptist Church at Third and Ingles
July 17, 1966First Services in the New Baptist Church
The first services were held in the new Baptist Church
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Watkins Mill was Designated a National Historic Landmark
November 1966November 1966 – Watkins Mill was designated a National Historic Landmark and dedicated the following spring
November 1966Watkins Mill was Designated a National Historic Landmark
Watkins Mill was designated a National Historic Landmark
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James Sidney Smith
Mayor 1967 - 1972James Sidney Smith was Mayor of Lawson 1967 – 1972, serving during the Lawson Centennial in 1971.
He was born September 16, 1891 in Lawson, the son of James A. and Alice (Green) Smith. In 1913 he graduated from University of Missouri. After WWII he taught an agricultural class for WWII veterans in Lawson.
He was a farmer, feedstore operator, and Farmall implement dealer in Lawson before he retired in 1978. He and his wife Mabel (Morrow) Smith donated land for the Smithview Manor.
Smith died January 24, 1980 in Lawson and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
James S. Smith Mayor 1967 - 1972James Sidney Smith
James Sidney Smith was Mayor of Lawson 1967 - 1972, serving during the Lawson Centennial in 1971.
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Franklin and Part of Rayville Were Added to Lawson School District
19671967 – Franklin and a part of Rayville were added to Lawson School District
1967Franklin and Part of Rayville Were Added to Lawson School District
Franklin and a part of Rayville were added to Lawson School District
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The Baptist Church was Dedicated
April 12, 1967April 12, 1967 – Dedicatory service was held for the Baptist Church at Third & Ingles
April 12, 1967The Baptist Church was Dedicated
The Baptist Church dedicatory service was held
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Lawson R-XII District Reorganization
May 1967May 1967 – during school district reorganization the name changed to Lawson R-XII District
May 1967Lawson R-XII District Reorganization
During school district reorganization the name changed
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Voters Approved New Fire Truck
August 8, 1967August 8, 1967 – Voters approved the purchase of a new fire truck with a promised delivery to the city on February 6, 1968
August 8, 1967Voters Approved New Fire Truck
Voters approved the purchase of a new fire truck
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Proposition Rejected for City Hall & Fire Station
August 8, 1967August 8, 1967 – Voters rejected a proposition for building a city hall and fire station
August 8, 1967Proposition Rejected for City Hall & Fire Station
Voters rejected a proposition for a city hall and fire station
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Presbyterian Church Refaced with Brick
1967-19681967-1968 – The Presbyterian church was refaced with brick to match the educational wing
1967-1968Presbyterian Church Refaced with Brick
The Presbyterian church was refaced with brick
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Evangelican United Bethren and the Methodist Church Joined
19681968 – the Evangelican United Bethren and the Methodist church joined hands as the United Methodist Church
1968Evangelican United Bethren and the Methodist Church Joined
The Evangelican United Bethren and the Methodist church joined
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Schools Held Classes at Baptist Church
19681968 – School held two classes in the Baptist church’s educational quarters.
1968Schools Held Classes at Baptist Church
School held two classes in the Baptist church’s educational quarters
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Delivery of Fire Truck
February 6, 1968February 6, 1968 – has the fire truck arrived yet? August 8, 1967 – Voters approved the purchase of a new fire truck with a promised delivery to the city on February 6, 1968
February 6, 1968Delivery of Fire Truck
Has the fire truck arrived yet?
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Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene 50th Anniversary
June 23, 1968June 23, 1968 – Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene celebrated its 50th anniversary
June 23, 1968Canaan Hill Church of the Nazarene 50th Anniversary
Canaan Hill Church celebrated its 50th anniversary
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Bond Issue Passed for a Second Elementary School
July 1968July 1968 – A bond issue of $310,000 passed for the purpose of erecting a second elementary school building in the town.
July 1968Bond Issue Passed for a Second Elementary School
A bond issue of $310,000 passed for a second elementary school
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Nike Base Closed for Good.
January 1969January 1969 – Nike base southeast of town closed down for good.
January 1969Nike Base Closed for Good.
Nike base closed down for good
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Firefighting Equipment Bond Paid In Full
February 4, 1969February 4, 1969 – firefighting equipment bond was paid off in full
February 4, 1969Firefighting Equipment Bond Paid In Full
Firefighting equipment bond was paid off in full
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Bonds Approved for Sewer System
April 1, 1969April 1, 1969 – Bonds for $38,000 were approved for constructing a sewer system on Moss Street and Salem Road, at a cost of $38,000. Completion of such sewer and water lines was set for December 3, 1969
April 1, 1969Bonds Approved for Sewer System
Bonds for $38,000 were approved for constructing a sewer system
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Street Sweeper Purchased
May 1969May 1969 – The city purchased a street sweeper
May 1969Street Sweeper Purchased
The city purchased a street sweeper
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The City Purchased the Chamber of Commerce Building
July 9, 1969July 9, 1969 – the City of Lawson purchased the Chamber of Commerce building planning to remodel it for use as city offices.
July 9, 1969The City Purchased the Chamber of Commerce Building
The City of Lawson purchased the Chamber of Commerce building
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Southwest Elementary Opened
August 1969Fall 1969 – Southwest Elementary opened with Kindergarten, First, Second, and Third grades.
August 1969Southwest Elementary Opened
Southwest Elementary opened with kindergarten, first, second, and third grades
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Resolution Passed to Support Watkins Mill State Park
September 9, 1969September 9, 1969 – the city officials passed a Resolution declaring all out support of efforts going forward at Watkins’ Mill State Park
September 9, 1969Resolution Passed to Support Watkins Mill State Park
The city officials passed a Resolution declaring all out support
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First Combined Service for the Presbyterians & Christians
September 14, 1969September 14, 1969 – The first united service was held paving the way to combine the Presbyterian and Christian Churches.
September 14, 1969First Combined Service for the Presbyterians & Christians
The first united service was held for the Presbyterian and Christian Churches
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Bonds Approved for New Fire Station
September 30, 1969September 30, 1969 – Voters approved a bond of $69,000 to be used for the building of a fire station
September 30, 1969Bonds Approved for New Fire Station
Voters approved a bond of $69,000
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South Half of Nike Base Transferred to Lawson School District
December 1969December 1969 – The south half of Lawson’s former Nike base installation transferred to the Lawson School District.
December 1969South Half of Nike Base Transferred to Lawson School District
The south half of Lawson’s former Nike base installation
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Completion Date for Water & Sewer System on Moss & Salem
December 3, 1969December 3, 1969 – Completion date for constructing a water and sewer system on Moss Street and Salem Road. Voters approved a bond issue of $38,000 on April 1, 1969
December 3, 1969Completion Date for Water & Sewer System on Moss & Salem
Completion date for constructing a water and sewer system on Moss Street and Salem Road
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Lawson Has Four School Buildings
1970-1971The 1970-71 school term found the Lawson district operating in four buildings. In addition to the high school there were Central, Southeast and Southwest Elemetary Schools
1970-1971Lawson Has Four School Buildings
The 1970-71 school term found the Lawson district operating in four buildings. In addition to the high school there were Central, Southeast and Southwest Elemetary Schools
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Bonds Sold for Fire Station
February 1970February 1970 – the bonds for the fire station that the voters approved on September 30, 1969 were sold
February 1970Bonds Sold for Fire Station
The bonds for the fire station were sold
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Radar Purchased for Police Department
March 1970March 1970 – radar was purchased for the use of the Lawson police department
March 1970Radar Purchased for Police Department
Radar was purchased for the Lawson police department
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The Old Fire Station Building Was Sold
April 7, 1970April 7, 1970 – G. L. Green purchased the city’s old fire station building.
April 7, 1970The Old Fire Station Building Was Sold
The city’s old fire station building was sold to G. L. Green
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Administraton Building at Nike Base Renovated as Southeast Elementary
Fall 1970Fall 1970 – The administration building at the Nike base was renovated for school purposes and was called Southeast Elementary. The kindergarten classes were held there.
Fall 1970Administraton Building at Nike Base Renovated as Southeast Elementary
The administration building at the Nike base was renovated for school purposes
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Lawson Purchased the Launcher Portion of Nike Missile Base
September 8, 1970September 8, 1970 – the City of Lawson purchased the (north) Launcher portion of the former Nike Missile base from the U.S. Government
September 8, 1970Lawson Purchased the Launcher Portion of Nike Missile Base
The City of Lawson purchased the north portion of the Nike Base
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Bond Issue Approved to Attract Ayers Plastics to Lawson
November 19, 1970November 19, 1970 – Voters approved a General Obligation Industrial Bond Issue which would bring Ayers Plastics Co., lnc. to the launch area of the former Nike Missile Site
November 19, 1970Bond Issue Approved to Attract Ayers Plastics to Lawson
Voters approved a General Obligation Industrial Bond Issue
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Open House at New Municipal Building
February 28, 1971February 28, 1971 – Open House at the City’s new Municipal Building
February 28, 1971Open House at New Municipal Building
Open House at the City’s new Municipal Building
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Lawson’s Centennial Celebration
July 16 - 18, 1971July 16 – 18, 1971 – Lawson’s Centennial Celebration
July 16 - 18, 1971Lawson’s Centennial Celebration
Lawson's Centennial Celebration
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Jack Wyatt Monroe
Mayor 1972 - 1974Jack Wyatt Monroe served as Mayor of Lawson 1972 – 1974
He was born April 28, 1920 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, the son of Thomas and Juanita (Wyatt) Monroe. On June 4, 1939 he and Helen Richards were married.
Jack owned the Monroe Pharmacies in Lawson and Excelsior Springs and Braymer Prescription and Drug in Braymer. He practiced pharmacy for 42 years before he retired in 1982. He served on the Lawson School Board for 12 years, chairman of the building committee at the Smithview Manor nursing home, chairman of the Lawson Centennial Committee, and was a co-founder of Little League baseball in Lawson.
He served in the Army Air Force during WWII and retired from the Air Force Reserves as a major.
On July 11, 1990 he died in Lawson and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Jack Wyatt Monroe Mayor 1972 - 1974Jack Wyatt Monroe
Jack Wyatt Monroe served as Mayor of Lawson 1972 - 1974 and practiced pharmacy for 42 years.
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Depot Building Moved to Excelsior Springs
June 1972June 1972 – The Milwaukee depot building was moved to Excelsior Springs
June 1972Depot Building Moved to Excelsior Springs
The Milwaukee depot building was moved to Excelsior Springs
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Van Frederick “Fred” Bright
Mayor 1975 - 1985Van Frederick “Fred” Bright served the most years as Mayor of Lawson from 1975 – 1985.
He was born July 26, 1948, the son of Van Harold and Myrna Lake (Crowley) Bright and a 1966 graduate of Lawson High School.
Fred died August 15, 2005 and was buried in Lawson Cemetery.
Van Frederick “Fred” Bright Van Frederick “Fred” Bright Certificate of Election Mayor 1975 - 1985Van Frederick “Fred” Bright
Van Frederick “Fred” Bright served the most years as Mayor of Lawson from 1975 - 1985.
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Kennel Calvert
Mayor 1985 - 1986Kennel Calvert served as Mayor of Lawson in 1986.
He was born March 8, 1947 in Excelsior Springs, the son of Harold W. and Marjorie (Clark) Calvert. On September 4, 1969 he and Beverly Johnson were married. Kennel was a farmer and electrician.
On February 26, 2018 Kennel died in Rayville.
Kennel Calvert Mayor 1985 - 1986Kennel Calvert
Kennel Calvert served as Mayor of Lawson in 1986. He was a farmer and electrician.
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Geraldine “Gerrie” F. Anderson
Mayor 1986 - 1991Geraldine “Gerrie” F. Anderson served as Mayor of Lawson 1986 – 1991, the first and only female mayor to date.
She was born December 10, 1935 in Kansas City, the daughter of Lester and Nina (Rosser) Mathews. She was a lifelong area resident.
Gerrie died June 27, 2002 and was buried in Resurrection North Cemetery in Kansas City.
Geraldine “Gerrie” Anderson Mayor 1986 - 1991Geraldine “Gerrie” F. Anderson
Gerrie Anderson served as Mayor of Lawson 1986 - 1991, the first and only female mayor to date.