"About This Blog

Rich Hill is a small town in Bates County, Missouri, known as the "Town That Coal Built." Since 2008, this blog has been digging through old newspapers, county histories, family photos, and community memories to piece together the stories of the people, businesses, churches, and events that shaped Rich Hill — from its coal-mining boom years to the present day. Here you'll find everything from town-defining moments (train depot ambushes, natural gas jubilees, the founding of local churches) to the quieter stories of the people who called Rich Hill home — including a few who went on to leave their mark on the wider world. Have an old photo, a family story, or a correction? I'd love to hear from you — reach out at beardonme@gmail.com

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Rich Hill Firetruck (1926) Still for sale

Thank you so much for your blog! Attached are recent pictures of the 1926 Firetruck. I would like to give Rich Hill citizens another opportunity to purchase this piece of history as it will not be available after 927/2019. I am very willing to take less than the $10,000 appraisal in its current condition as my family would like it to go back to Rich Hill verses another buyer.

Thank you,

Michele Malik

The Back of the Picture says Cory Gordon and Lee Gordon

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Wheatley Book Keeping (Mining Review May 23, 1974)

Terry Wheatley has purchased the building where his business and MFA Insurance are located. The outside has been painted two shades of brown recently.Terry said he plans to put on a shingle awning and box in the white portion of the front with wood.

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

1950 and 1952 Rich Hill High School pictures from Yearbook

1950 Rich Hill High School Yearbook

1952 Rich Hill High School Yearbook