Upcoming Events

In Catching Hell from All Quarters Sean Rost works to invert the traditional history of what has been termed the second Ku Klux Klan (1915-1930) by examining the efforts of anti-Klan activists, in particular in Missouri, who challenged the growth, recruitment, and political ambitions of the Invisible Empire during the 1920s and 1930s through editorial crusades, educational campaigns, public pressure on elected officials, political investigations, and in some cases counter-vigilantism.

Although anti-Klan activism was nation-wide, Missouri provides an excellent case study for the rise and fall of the second Klan as the organization gained a large membership and obtained a notable level of political power in some parts of the Show-Me State. Significantly, despite membership totals comparable to that of neighboring states, the Missouri Klan did not translate its recruiting success into substantial influence and political power due to significant local opposition from anti-Klan activists.

Presented by author Sean Rost

Born in Ireland, Tom Connor lived the classic American rags-to-riches story. He witnessed several of the Civil War's major battles as a newsboy with the 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, then spent a decade wandering around the U.S. working various odd jobs before ending up in southwest Missouri. Connor soon developed a knack for knowing which tracts of land had rich zinc deposits beneath. He bought thousands of acres of land containing the ore and was a millionaire by the time he turned 31. He also "grubstaked" countless other miners, furnishing picks, drills, and other supplies in exchange for a percentage of royalties if a strike resulted. Unlike Joplin's other mining kings, Connor never built a mansion for himself, preferring to spend his money on others. He gave thousands of dollars to churches and charities in Joplin land his hometown of Tiffin, Ohio, but his greatest gift was "the finest hotel property in this part of the country."

Presented by author Chad Stebbins

11:30 a.m. Friends Annual Business Meeting

12:00 p.m. Catered Lunch

1:00 p.m. Speaker Presentation

The Friends Annual Meeting event begins with a brief business meeting, followed by a catered lunch, then a program from our guest speaker. Stephen J. Kling, Jr. will present on his book, American Revolution in the West.

This is a ticketed event. A Friends of the Missouri State Archives membership guarantees one ticket to the event. Laura Ingalls Wilder members and higher levels guarantee two tickets to the event. Additional tickets are $25 each. Cash or check payment accepted at the door. RSVP required by all attendees. Reservations can be sent to [email protected]. Donations can be made here, or mailed to P.O. Box 242, Jefferson City, Mo., 65102.

Membership levels:

Membership runs July 1 - June 30