Cultural Resources Survey Long Branch Lake Macon County, Missouri. Volume 3, Historical Resources Survey.
Abstract
Settlers, chiefly from Kentucky and North Carolina, began moving into the long Branch area in the early 1830's. By 1837 the population north of Randolph County was large enough to warrant the creation of Macon County. the Upper South origin-of the early settlers was reflected in the antebellum political, social, and economic development of the area. The county was the chief unit of local government, congregations of Baptists and Methodist were most numerous, public schools were slow to appear, farming was the principal occupation with tobacco as the chief money crop, and slaves were a part of the labor force. The economy and social institutions changed somewhat in the latter 19th century with the arrival of European immigrants and additional free blacks. General farming continued to dominate economic activity, though livestock production and apple received much attention. Public schools, lodges, and churches increased in number. A decrease in the population began in the late 19th century and has continued to the present. This, plus all-weather roads and the automobile, brought about the virtual elimination of the rural schools and churches which had provided a societal cohesion. Most of the farmers turned to commercial agriculture and learned to depend upon the radio, television, and urban institutions for their education and entertainment. Examples of the 19th century culture which should be preserved include the Lea House, the Bethel Church, the Duck Creek schoolhouse, various artifacts including the Swallow sorghum mill and vats, and articles an poems written by Daniel D. Foley. Long Branch Lake, Macon County, Historical study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA275971
Entities
People
- David S March
- Larry Stephens
Organizations
- Truman State University