Part of The Missouri Chronicles series, Before Lawrence explores the tragic destruction of the town of Osceola, Missouri on September 23, 1861.
The series is being introduced through Substack. Please subscribe (no cost) so you can get the latest submissions and participate in the discussion. An introductory snippet will be sent to your e-mail. You can choose to read the entire story at your leisure. You can also use the Resources provided on this page to further explore the history behind the story.
- Forward
- Antebellum
- The Town Square
- August 10, 1861
- August 12, 1861
- August 19, 1861
- James Lane
- September 2, 1861 — The Battle of Dry Wood Creek
- September 9, 1861
- September 12, 1861
- September 15, 1861
- September 19,1861 — Neighbors
- September 20, 1861
- September 21, 1861
- September 22, 1861
- September 23, 1861
- September 24, 1861
- September 25, 1861
- September 26, 1861
- September 30, 1861 — Abandonment
- Aftermath
- The Concept of Total War
Additional Resources
Special Thanks
- Richard Reed, local historian and enthusiast, who took the time to show me the area and introduce me to Meredith and Linda Anderson
- St. Clair County Historical Society, specifically Meredith and Linda Anderson, who took the time to show the collection.
- The University of Missouri Library staff
- The Missouri State Historical Society
Publications
Osceola, Missouri, The Burning of 1861, by Richard F Sunderwirth, copyright uncertain, but most likely 2013.
Before Lawrence: Why Was it Written?
Observations
Added notes regarding people and places.
Photos
Contact the Author
Eric Niewoehner can best be reached through either Substack or Locals. Each site provides a messaging service for subscribers.