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This birthday bash takes the cake. Missouri is 200 years old today with many ‘Mo’ years to come. Aug. 10 marks the date the Show Me State became the 24th state to enter the Union. 🎉 Before you throw on your party hat, let’s brush up on some history + get the scoop on events.
Quick facts + symbols
- The state animal | The Missouri mule became a staple among farmers and settlers to carry out everyday activities. Mules pulled pioneer wagons to the Wild West in the 19th century + helped move troops and supplies during both world wars. 🐴
- The state floral emblem | The white hawthorn blossom, more commonly known as the ‘red haw,’ or ‘white haw,’ is a member of the great rose family. 75+ species grow in Missouri, particularly in the Ozarks. 💮
- The state instrument | The fiddle adapted to many genres of music, could be played without formal training, and was light to carry. 🎻
- The state song | The “Missouri Waltz” did not sell well and was considered a failure after its first publication. The song gained popularity 25 years later + sales increased after Harry S. Truman became president. It was reported to be his favorite song. 🎶
- The state exercise | The jumping jack was invented by Missouri-born Army General John J. Pershing as a training drill for cadets. The idea came from students at Pershing Elementary School in St. joseph. 🎖️
Celebration + events
- Lee’s Summit Outdoor Community Social | Tues., Aug. 10 | 5-8 p.m. | Lee’s Summit History Museum, 220 SW. Main St. Lee’s Summit, MO | Enjoy a performance by the Lee’s Summit Symphony, view historical memorabilia, and fill-up on ice cream (Missouri’s official state dessert).
- Missouri Town 1855 | All week | 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Missouri Town 1855, 8010 E. Park Rd. Blue Springs, MO | Take advantage of free admission all week + learn by touring this living history museum with 25+ buildings.
- Bicentennial Celebration in Raymore | Tues., Aug. 10 | 4-9 p.m. | Raymore Farmers Market, 227 Municipal Cir. Raymore, MO | Shop from local makers + artisans in celebration with Raymore Parks & Rec and the Raymore Historical Society.
- Missouri Bicentennial Ice Cream Social | Tues., Aug. 10 | 5-8 p.m. | Blue Springs Historical Society, 101 SW. 15th St. Blue Springs, MO | Munch on Missouri’s favorite dessert + talk Missouri history.
- Networking Ice Cream Social | Tues., Aug. 10 | 4:30-6:00 p.m. | Independence Uptown Market, 211 W. Truman Rd. Independence, MO | Join the Independence Chamber of Commerce for music, lawn games, ice cream, and the opportunity to strengthen business contacts.
- Liberty Ice Cream Social | Tues., Aug. 10 | 6:30-8:00 p.m. | Chandler Baptist Church, 11401 NE. State Route 33 Liberty, MO | Gather for a night of children’s games, worship, and sweet treats.
Taking part in the celebration? Make sure you tag @thekctoday in any photos you take + use our hashtag #KCtoday so we can share on our social channels. 📸
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