Upcoming Monthly Meetings

Monthly Meetings

Promotional flyer for the June 2026 Stoddard County Historical Society monthly meeting featuring a presentation by Paul Arnold titled 'Scoundrel of the Swamp: Uncovering Captain Leeper's Brutal Legacy'.

June 18, 2026

Join us for a gripping presentation by Paul Arnold as he delves into the chilling legacy of Captain William T. Leeper, a notorious Civil War figure from the 12th Missouri State Militia Cavalry (US). Discover the brutal tactics Leeper employed, including the infamous Mingo Swamp Massacre of 1864, and his reign of terror across Ripley and St. Francis Counties. This program uncovers the dark side of local Civil War history, shedding light on the impact of his actions in our region. Hosted by the Stoddard County Historical Society at the Stars and Stripes Museum, this free event offers a powerful look into the past. Don’t miss this chance to explore a haunting chapter of Missouri’s history!

Flyer for the July 2026 Stoddard County Historical Society monthly meeting featuring a presentation on 'Letters Home from World War II: St. Louis' by speaker and author Christopher Alan Gordon.

July 16, 2026

Letters Home from World War II: St. Louis

Join us for a journey through the hidden histories of St. Louis during WWII. The Stoddard County Historical Society and The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library are proud to host speaker and author Christopher Alan Gordon for a special evening unearthing the personal stories, heartbreak, and hope found within the correspondence of the Greatest Generation.

 

About the Presentation

Discover the “hidden histories” of St. Louis through the lens of those who lived it. Christopher Alan Gordon will delve into the powerful messages sent from the front lines and the home front, offering a unique and intimate perspective on the World War II era.

Special Event: Book Signing ✍️

 
Following the presentation, Christopher Alan Gordon will be available to meet with guests and sign copies of his book, Letters Home from World War II: St. Louis. Don’t miss this chance to take home a piece of history!
Invite your friends and family to help us honor these voices from the past. We look forward to seeing you there!
 

 

Flyer for the August 2026 Stoddard County Historical Society monthly meeting featuring a presentation on General Nathan Bedford Forrest and the December of 1862 Raid.

August 20, 2026

Cavalry, Strategy, and Sabotage: The Raid that Shook the Union

 
In December 1862, General Nathan Bedford Forrest launched a daring raid into West Tennessee that would cement his reputation as one of the Civil War’s most formidable cavalry commanders. But what really happened during those winter weeks of tactical brilliance and brutal conflict?
Join the Stoddard County Historical Society at the Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library for a deep dive into this pivotal campaign.
 

Our Guest Speaker:

 
We are honored to welcome Rick Justice, a retired Sikeston High School history teacher and author. With years of research and multiple books under his belt, Rick brings a wealth of knowledge and a storyteller’s touch to this fascinating chapter of American history.
 

What to Expect:

 
The Strategy: How Forrest’s 2,100 men disrupted Grant’s supply lines and changed the momentum of the war.
The Impact: The local and national consequences of the rail and telegraph destruction.
Expert Insight: A detailed look at the maneuvers that earned Forrest the nickname “The Wizard of the Saddle.”
 
Whether you’re a Civil War enthusiast or a fan of local history, come out for an evening of education and community. Be sure to arrive early to browse our latest exhibits!
 

Flyer for the September 2026 Stoddard County Historical Society monthly meeting featuring a presentation on Cape Girardeau's Civil War fortifications titled 'The Fortress City'

September 17, 2026

Fortress Cape Girardeau: Engineering Civil War Defenses

In the heat of the Civil War, Cape Girardeau was transformed into a “Fortress City.” To protect this vital river port, Union forces engineered a sophisticated network of four distinct earthwork fortifications—Forts A, B, C, and D. But how were they built, and were they truly the strategic masterstroke the Union claimed them to be?

Join the Stoddard County Historical Society at the Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library for an evening of architectural and military discovery.

Our Featured Speaker

We are thrilled to host Dr. Adam Criblez, Professor of History and Interim Chair of the Department of History and Anthropology at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO). As a versatile historian whose expertise spans 19th-century American culture, modern sports, and regional history, Dr. Criblez will lead us through the fascinating history of these earthworks—from their initial design to their role in regional defense.

What You’ll Explore

  • Engineering the Defense: The grit and labor behind the construction of Forts A, B, C, and D.

  • Strategic Necessity: Why Cape Girardeau’s geography made it a high-priority target for both sides.

  • Legacy in Earth: What remains of these fortifications today and how they shaped the region.


Don’t miss this chance to see our local landscape through the eyes of a Civil War engineer. We’ll see you there!