If Henry Rowe Schoolcraft were to re-visit the White River area he hiked through nearly 197 years ago, he would more than likely be shocked at all the changes he would find. In late 1818–early 1819, Schoolcraft explored the Ozarks area, documenting mineral and natural resources, people, landscape, and climate, and ultimately wrote several books on his findings. His travels took him through a large portion of the Missouri and Arkansas region, including future counties of Taney, Douglas, Ozark, Christian, and Greene.
On Friday, April 24, there will be an organizational meeting to begin planning efforts for an area-wide Schoolcraft Bicentennial, tentatively scheduled for Fall, 2018. The focus group will be led by Thomas A. Peters, Dean of Library Services with Missouri State University Libraries, and will be hosted by the White River Valley Historical Society, 297 Main Street, Forsyth (across from the Judicial Center). Representatives of local organizations, libraries, museums, and historical-interest groups are invited to attend this initial planning session, with lunch provided by MSU Libraries. For more information, or to RSVP, contact the WRVHS at 417-546-2210 or email info@wrvhs.org by April 15.
