January 8, 1881

This was the birthday of Branson resident, John G. Neihardt, the great epic novelist who wrote of life and history on the Missouri River, especially the plains Indians.

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.