Volume 8, Number 5 - Fall 1983


A Trip to Forsyth in 1900

In the March 1, 1900 issue of the DEMOCRAT, a newspaper published in Nashville, Illinois, a traveler wrote an article concerning his trip to Springfield and southwest Missouri. The following is part of his story:

"By stage line we left Chadwick at 1:30 and to be exact, we traveled a distance of 24 and thirty-seven hundredths miles over a rough and rocky road to Forsyth, the county seat of Taney County. This drive consumed a little more than five hours time and the entire distance hasn’t a single bridge, or a half mile of dirt road. We crossed and recrossed Swan Creek seven times. We passed through several little hamlets and crossroad stores, where the good people of the county congregate from time to time to discuss politics and to whittle. Arriving in Forsyth about 7 o’clock, we found a comfortable hotel where we lodged during our sojourn."

He described Forsyth; "The place has a population of about 400, as intelligent, sociable and hospitable people as we have ever met. In 1890, the courthouse, a large two story structure, built of native stone was erected. You can get land from Uncle Sam direct for $1.25 per acre cash. Or, under the Homestead Act, $14 and 5 years residence will get you a home."

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