Buchanan County, located in the northwest region of Missouri, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. Here are seven interesting facts about Buchanan County that you may not know:
1. The county was named after James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States, who served from 1857 to 1861. Buchanan County was established in 1838, four years before Buchanan was elected to the presidency.
2. The Pony Express, which operated from April 1860 to November 1861, had a stop in St. Joseph, the county seat of Buchanan County. The Pony Express was a mail delivery service that used horses to carry mail from Missouri to California in record time.
3. Buchanan County played an important role in the Civil War. St. Joseph was a major supply depot for Union troops, and several battles and skirmishes were fought in and around the county.
4. Jesse James, the infamous outlaw, lived in St. Joseph for several years. In fact, he was working as a janitor at a local school when he met his future wife, Zerelda Mimms, who was a student at the school.
5. In 1889, the first Labor Day parade in the United States was held in St. Joseph. The parade was organized by the Knights of Labor, a labor union that was active in the late 1800s.
6. The Patee House, a hotel in St. Joseph, was one of the most luxurious and grand hotels in the United States in the 1800s. It was built in 1858 and was a popular destination for wealthy travelers.
7. Buchanan County is home to Missouri Western State University, a public university that was founded in 1915. The university has grown significantly over the years and now offers over 120 undergraduate and graduate programs.
These are just a few of the many interesting facts about Buchanan County, Missouri. The county's rich history and diverse culture make it a fascinating place to visit and explore.
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