About the Book

Overview: This history focuses on Cass County History from 1860 until the end of the Civil War. The narratives's primary focus details events leading up to and following Quantrill's Lawrence Raid and the impact of Order No. 11.

General Focus: The research and narrative focuses on families living in Cass County in 1860. There were approximately 1,700 households in the county when the census was taken. The history's investigation and research has tracked, where possible, the stories of each of these 1,700 families.

Geographic Focus: Quite specifically, the book focuses upon Cass County, Missouri. Cass County sits south of Jackson County, Missouri and east of Miami County, Kansas. Its location played a key role in the Border War as well as the Civil War. The county was included in the “District of the Border.”  After Order No. 11 was implemented, families scattered across Missouri and to various other points in the United States.  The book follows families along their various journeys.

Political Focus:  In many respects, Cass County presents a microcosm of Missouri.  Cass County's political polarization in 1861 is analyzed in detail.  The evolution of the political power structure in the county is followed in detail and linked to statewide events.

Timelines: The narrative begins with the 1860 Cass County census and concludes with the arrival of the first train to Pleasant Hill, July 19, 1865.

Civil War Battles: Battles are included in the narrative only as they relate to the impact on Cass County families.  If military units, Union or Confederate, containing Cass County men, participated in a significant battle the roles of local participants is addressed.  

Family Stories: Tells the story of Cass County and its families from 1860 through the War's end.  The book ends with the first train to Pleasant Hill, July 19, 1865.

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