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CELEBRATION OF LEXINGTON, MISSOURI'S BICENTENNIAL
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HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER
of missouri
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, July 12, 2022
Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the bicentennial of Lexington, Missouri. For two hundred years, Lexington has stood as a proud, historic city filled with hardworking people who embody the American Dream. As the people of Lexington gather to celebrate their bicentennial, let us take a moment to reflect on the town's rich history.
Located on the Missouri River, Lexington was first platted in 1822. Founded by Gilead Rupe, the town was established from a river port and grew as a result of trade along the Big Muddy. Lexington was named after Lexington, Kentucky, as many of the city's early settlers ventured from the Bluegrass State. Lexington soon became the county seat of Lafayette County.
In 1861, the town found itself at the center of the Civil War, as the Show-Me State split its support between the Union and the Confederacy. Between September 19th and September 21st of that year, the town became engulfed in the First Battle of Lexington Missouri, colloquially titled the Battle of the Hemp Bales. As Blue and Gray forces clashed, the Lafayette County Courthouse was struck with a cannonball, where it remains lodged in the building's eastern-most column to this day. Another landmark from the battle, the Oliver Anderson House, served as a Union hospital for the remainder of the war.
Lexington's history goes beyond the Civil War. Migrants traveled through the town on the Santa Fe, Oregon, and the California trails. The town was also home to the headquarters of the trade firm of Russell, Majors, and Waddell, the founders of the Pony Express. Historic homes dot the town, including Linwood Lawn. The manor was described as ``the largest and most palatial home west of St. Louis'' by the local newspaper when it was constructed in 1859. Today, after refurbishment, it is still a shining example of a historic, antebellum home. The rich history of Lexington is something its citizens are proud of and uphold. Indeed, history such as this is important at demonstrating the narrative of the town and our nation.
Lexington has been home to various academic institutes over time. Throughout the 1800s, multiple institutions for women were opened: including the Elizabeth Aull Seminary, Lexington Ladies' College, and Central College. In 1880, Wentworth Military Academy opened its doors, and throughout its operation, welcomed students from around the world. Wentworth became one of the oldest operating military academies west of the Mississippi River and remained open until 2017. Throughout its history, Wentworth produced many celebrated alumni, including the late Congressman Ike Skelton and two Medal of Honor recipients. Meanwhile, the Lexington School District continues to provide students with ample opportunities to succeed in academics, fine arts, and athletics.
The city is home to industry and scenery that best exemplify our state and what it means to be a Missourian. From Lexington's blufftop view of the Missouri River to the surrounding farmland, one can see the lush beauty that defines the area. Lexington's surrounding farms, orchards, and vineyards offer bountiful harvests every year. And with over one hundred businesses in town, its economic activity is as fervent as ever.
This historic town has been an important part of our nation's narrative; home to hard-working, genuine people that exemplify the best of Missouri. For two hundred years, Lexington has demonstrated the spirit of Missouri and America. Madam Speaker, please join me and my constituency in honoring Lexington for two hundred years of community and success, and in wishing them great prosperity in the future.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 114(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 114(2)
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