Book reveals Nodaway County's history in pictures

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Dr. Michael Steiner

A new book compiled by Dr. Michael Steiner, associate professor of history, provides local-history enthusiasts with an intimate picture of Nodaway County as it appeared in decades gone by.

“Nodaway County,” a recent installment in Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series, contains more than 200 vintage photographs that Steiner hopes will encourage readers to take an active part in “preserving the cultural heritage of our small communities.”

Part of the 1836 Platte Purchase, Nodaway is the fourth-largest county in Missouri, and its rich historical legacy includes the establishment in Maryville of the state’s Fifth District Normal School, now Northwest Missouri State University, in 1905.

Other points of interest include Conception Seminary College, where U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas once studied; the Benedictine convent in neighboring Clyde; and the ornate courthouse on the Maryville square.

In addition to photos of these landmarks, Steiner’s book contains pre-World War II images of area communities and pictures taken at events such as fairs, parades and concerts.

He said he hopes “Nodaway County” will help local residents connect with their shared past while providing those who live elsewhere with insight into rural, small-town life.

“Readers will find the images a fascinating comparison to the community they see around them every day,” Steiner said, while others may discern a more universal message, “the substance of small community life that transcends time and location.”

A Northwest alumnus and Nodaway County resident who grew up in nearby Nebraska City, Neb., Steiner is president of the Nodaway County Historical Society and has played a key role in a number of projects promoting local history. His work on behalf of the society and its museum, located in Maryville, has included everything from writing grants and building displays to mowing the lawn. An accomplished musician, he is also the organizer of the society’s annual Evening of Jazz concert.

“Nodaway County” is available at area bookstores, from online retailers or through the publisher (www.arcadiapublishing.com)

For more information, please contact:

Anthony Brown,
News Bureau Manager
E-Mail: abrown@nwmissouri.edu
Phone: 660.562.1704
Fax: 660.562.1900

Northwest Missouri State University
219 Administration Building,
800 University Drive
Maryville, MO 64468

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