February 23, 1803

Birthday of John A. Sutter. Sutter lived and farmed in the Westport-Independence area and later moved to California where he operated Sutter’s Mill. His mill is where gold was discovered and had a huge effect on St. Louis, Westport, Independence, and St. Joseph.

This post was contributed by Ross Malone. A historian and a retired school teacher, Ross has authored many books about Missouri’s history, weird facts, and folk tales. He has also written children’s historical fiction. Visit his website, and buy his books in the Missouri Life store.