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Annual Missouri History Day immerses fourth graders in the past
History came alive for fourth grade students from Truman Elementary and neighboring schools as they participated in the annual Missouri History Day organized by the Vernon County Historical Society. The event, held on Thursday, Sept. 21, proved to be an enriching experience for these young learners, who embarked on a journey through time at various locations in Nevada.
The day began at 9 a.m. and continued until 2 p.m., with students exploring nine engaging programs spread across the Franklin P. Norman City/County Community Center, Bushwhacker Museum, Nevada Public Library, and the former First Baptist Church lot at the corner of Hunter and Main streets.
Stephanie Wang from Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, along with dedicated VCHS volunteers, welcomed students at the Bushwhacker Jail, where they got a taste of "Old Time Fun & Games" and learned about life during the 19th century.
Kari Coates, also from Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, introduced students to the world of Civil War soldiers, teaching them about marching and drilling, as well as the challenges soldiers faced during that time.
One of the highlights of the day was a "Fire in the Hole!" Civil War Cannon Demonstration led by Tim Talbott from Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, which had the young historians captivated by the explosive presentation.
At the community center, Ranger Ryan O’Connell from George Washington Carver National Monument engaged the students in a hands-on activity called "Callouses & Corn: Life on a 19th Century Farm," offering a glimpse into the hard work required on a farm during that era.
Students also had the opportunity to experience life in a one-room schoolhouse with Clarisse Teepe-Fryrear and Connie Oyer, dedicated volunteers from the Vernon County Historical Society, during the "The Three Rs: Readin’ Ritin’ & ‘Rithmatic" program.
Galen Ewing from Prairie State Park enlightened the young historians about "Walmart of the Plains: The American Bison," while Kensi Tillman, a Naturalist from the Missouri Department of Conservation, introduced them to the "Animals of Missouri."
Carol Davit from the Missouri Prairie Foundation provided insight into the "Native Prairies of Southwest Missouri" with her presentation titled "A Sea of Grass," and Michael & Tenley Fraser of Short Leaf Band shared the rich tradition of "Missouri Folk Music."
The event was made possible through the generous financial support of local businesses and received programming assistance from Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, George Washington Carver National Monument, Missouri Division of State Parks, Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Prairie Foundation, Shortleaf Band of Rogersville, Mo., and City of Nevada Parks & Recreation.
The Missouri History Day not only deepened the students' understanding of the past but also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving history for future generations. The Vernon County Historical Society, with its commitment to education and community engagement, successfully delivered an unforgettable day of learning and fun for these young history enthusiasts.
