It's Membership Time!
It's Membership Time!
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It's once again time to renew your membership! Ralls County Historical Society runs entirely on donations, and your support is greatly appreciated. You can click the PayPal button to the right to pay online, or you can mail your membership dues to Ralls County Historical Society, PO Box 463, Perry, MO 63462. Again, thank you!
Ralls County Seal
Design Contest
Ralls County Seal
Design Contest
Ralls County Historical Society is thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting contest to design a county seal for Ralls County. This is a unique opportunity to share your time and talent to develop a seal that will be used throughout the county for many years. The winning design will be used on various products throughout the Historical Society and the county, including flags, letterhead, and other business and county projects. The county seal will be a symbol of Ralls County’s rich history.
For more information and the application, click here!
We look forward to seeing what you design to help us celebrate our county!
Schneider Presents to RCHS
Schneider Presents to RCHS
Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum Shares Exciting Updates at Ralls County Historical Society Meeting
Mark Schneider, Development and Marketing Manager for The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, was the guest speaker following Ralls County Historical Society’s monthly meeting on June 18, 2025, at Perry City Hall. Schneider, whose background includes more than two decades in local media, shared a variety of initiatives designed to engage the public with the life and legacy of Mark Twain. He also shared developing and marketing techniques that other agencies can use to build their audience.
Schneider spoke about James, a 2024 novel by Percival Everett that reimagines Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from Jim’s perspective. He also touched on Making the Mark, a gallery program showcasing regional talent, and Spirits and Sarcasm, an event that combines Mark Twain’s love of whiskey and his sarcastic sense of humor.
A highly anticipated event at The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum is the June 29, 2025, book signing by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow, whose latest biography, Mark Twain, has generated considerable excitement. Chernow is the author of several books, including Alexander Hamilton, which was later turned into the Hamilton musical. Tickets for the program sold out quickly, underscoring strong community interest. CBS Sunday Morning recently filmed a feature on Chernow’s upcoming visit, interviewing Mark Twain performer Jim Waddell and local youth ambassadors Tom and Becky. The segment is expected to air in July.
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home, built in 1844 and undergoing restoration since 1912, remains a cultural cornerstone in Hannibal. The museum hosts events throughout the year, including the popular Music Under the Stars Concert Series, which is held on the campus of The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in downtown Hannibal each Thursday evening from 7:00-9:00 p.m. during the summer. On July 24, Candace Ivory will perform. Ivory is an internationally acclaimed vocalist and Missouri Arts Council–approved touring artist known as the "Queen of Avant Soul." Ivory’s latest project is a tribute to blues legend Memphis Minnie, and her performance is expected to draw locals and tourists alike.
Schneider emphasized the power of storytelling in history and marketing. “People respond to stories,” he said. “They want to know why something matters, not just how old it is or how much it cost.” He encouraged local historical organizations to collaborate, focus on meaningful narratives, and identify their target audiences to build engagement.
The Ralls County Historical Society (RCHS) strives to “preserve, celebrate, and honor” the history and people of Ralls County. RCHS’s next meeting is Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Perry City Hall, and the public is invited to attend. A guest speaker will again present a program at 11:00 a.m. To become a member or learn more, visit RCHS on Facebook (Ralls County Missouri Historical Society) or their webpage (rallscohistoricalsociety.com), or contact Delores Woodhurst (573-248-7445 or dvwoodhurst@gmail.com).
Photo Byline: RCHS member Sandie Storm enjoyed the program presented by Mark Schneider, Development & Marketing Manager for The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum on June 18, 2025.
RCHS member Sandie Storm enjoyed the program presented by Mark Schneider, Development & Marketing Manager for The Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum on June 18, 2025.
Minutes from June 18, 2025 RCHS Meeting
Minutes from June 18, 2025 RCHS Meeting
Ralls County Historical Society Agenda
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
10:00 a.m.
Perry City Hall
Perry, MO
Brad Stinson, Barry Zbornik, Ben Akers, Carolyn Trower, Cindy Lynn Drainer, Patty Tinsley, Sandie Storm, Mary Jackson, Jeanie Gay, Ron Leake, Susan Bedford, Delores Woodhurst, Dr. John Bondy, and Linda Bondy attended the June meeting of Ralls County Historical Society on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Perry City Hall.
Project Updates:
Review and Amend Bylaws and Constitution: The constitution and bylaws were reviewed in their entirety, and proposed changes were discussed. During the discussion, it was noted that an average of ten (10) people attended RCHS’s monthly meetings in the last year. Having two signers for all checks, or possibly checks over a specific amount that are not recurring expenses, such as rent, was also discussed. This will be a decision item at the July RCHS meeting. Carolyn Trower made a motion to amend the constitution and bylaws as noted below. Ron Leake seconded. Motion carried.
Constitution: Article V, Section 1: Eliminate the position of Historian.
Constitution: Remove the reference to Spring when referring to the second quarter of the year.
Bylaws: Remove the reference to Spring when referring to the second quarter of the year.
Bylaws: Article I, Section 3: Add “and/or in a separate mailing.”
Bylaws: Article II, Section 1: Meetings will be held on the third Wednesday of each month. If the date needs to be changed, notice will be given at least one month prior to the proposed date change.
Bylaws: Article II, Section 3: Eight members shall be a quorum for conducting business.
Bylaws: Article III, Section 5: This section will be deleted, as the Historian position will be eliminated, as noted above.
2025 Membership Drive: Membership runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. A mailing will go out by July 1, 2025. Membership in RCHS allows our organization to continue to preserve, celebrate, and honor our county’s rich history.
PayPal, Venmo, and Online Funds: Following a discussion, Cindy Drainer made a motion to establish PayPal and Venmo accounts for RCHS, which will enable RCHS to receive membership dues and donations online, in addition to accepting cash and checks. Patty Tinsley seconded. Motion passed. Mary Jackson made a motion to set a $3 convenience fee for PayPal and Venmo transactions. Carolyn Trower seconded. Motion passed.
Cemetery Update: Sandie Storm and Mary Jackson continue to work on cemetery records. The cemetery records will be moved from the current library to their new location within the Missouri Mule Museum on Thursday, June 26, 2025. Sandie shared a document that Ben Akers came across, which is a list of 1862 Civil War battles that occurred in Northeast Missouri. Delores will make copies of the document to distribute at RCHS’s July meeting.
Fort Mason Project: No update.
Center Depot: About 50 people attended the Wine and Cheese Tasting party that was held at the depot on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. The following day, almost 300 people came to the depot as part of the Ralls County Poker Chip Cruise on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Proceeds go to the completion of a ‘Wall of Honor’ to be erected in Veterans Park honoring our heroes, young and old, past and present. Thank you, Sharon Lake, for the time and effort you put into these events.
Missouri Mule Museum: Jeanie Gay shared that the Missouri Mule Museum (MMM) will be open to the public for the rest of the summer on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The museum is located at 114 East Main Street in Perry (the former Western Auto building). The museum showcases the history of our state animal, the Missouri Mule, and its role in the history of our county, state, and nation.
Volunteers Needed: A calendar was again shared. Volunteers are needed to staff the museum in Perry or the depot in Center, so they can remain open to the public.
Perry Bank Restoration: No update.
Ralls County Seal Design Contest: The deadline for this contest is July 31, 2025.
Preserving County Documents and other artifacts: On behalf of Ralls County Clerk Brandy Flynn, Mary Jackson shared the 2024 Base Year Application for the Ralls County Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program, reminding those in attendance that the completed application is due by June 30, 2025.
Current Research Requests: Tim Oar is seeking local area experts who would be willing to participate in an on-camera interview to discuss some of the highlights of our local history. John Bondy shared that their organization, Randolph County Historical Society, has already completed their interview. Ron Leake will be our voice in this project. Mary Lou Montgomery will be writing some articles on the current projects of RCHS.
Ongoing Projects
Adult History Preservation: No new interviews have been completed. If anyone would like to conduct interviews with a senior citizen or be interviewed, please contact Delores Woodhurst or Carolyn Trower.
John Ralls Donation: Documents from the donation continue to be transcribed. Transcribed documents can be found at RCHS’s website: https://www.rallscohistoricalsociety.com/research-spotlight/john-ralls-documents.
Calendar: Delores will proceed with creating a 2026 calendar for RCHS. The calendar will be sold to cover costs associated with the project and generate funds for RCHS. Since this is the first year for the calendar project, RCHS will begin by listing dates set by local cities and organizations. If you have dates for 2026 that you want added to the calendar, please contact Delores Woodhurst.
Payment of Bills with Receipts: No bills or receipts were presented.
Financial Information as of 5/31/2025: Ending balance $56,360.82
President’s Update: Ron expressed his appreciation for the attendance at the monthly meetings and the continued support of the Historical Society. He shared the continual need for RCHS to publicize, promote, and create interest by working together to preserve our history. He pointed out that the Spalding and the Indian painting on the bluffs of Salt River are interesting topics that can generate interest for the county. Recently, inmates from Northeast Missouri Correctional Center moved items from the current library to its new location within the Missouri Mule Museum. Delores is hopeful that inmates will return on Thursday, June 26, 2025, to move the remainder of the items.
Public Outreach Opportunities
RCHS’s 50th anniversary will be in January 2026
June 20, 2025: Perry Parking Lot Party (June 20, 2025)
June 22, 2025: ILASCO Holy Chapel Mass, 9:00 a.m.
June 22, 2025: ILASCO Ice Cream Social, Noon to 4:00 p.m.
June 28, 2025: Oak Hill School Gathering, 6:30 p.m. A meal is served on a free-will donation basis, accompanied by music. The public is welcome to attend.
July 4, 2025: Perry Fourth of July
July 16, 2026: RCHS Meeting, 10:00 a.m., Perry City Hall
July 26, 2025: Oak Hill School Gathering, 6:30 p.m. A meal is served on a free-will donation basis, accompanied by music. The public is welcome to attend.
July 27, 2025: ILASCO Holy Chapel Mass, 9:00 a.m.
August 3, 2025: St. Paul Ice Cream Social, 4 p.m. (St. Paul Church and Cemetery are located off Hwy. EE
August 20, 2025: RCHS Meeting, 10:00 a.m., Perry City Hall
August 22, 2025: Area Historical Society Meeting at Audrain County Historical Society, 10:00 a.m.
August 23, 2025: Oak Hill School Gathering, 6:30 p.m. A meal is served on a free-will donation basis, accompanied by music. The public is welcome to attend. Perry All Town Garage Sales (August 29-30, 2025)
August 24, 2025: ILASCO Holy Chapel Mass, 9:00 a.m.
September 17, 2025: RCHS Meeting, 10:00 a.m., Perry City Hall
September 18, 2025: IAHPS Research Center & Archival Library Ribbon Cutting, 10998 Ilasco Drive, Hannibal, 4:30 p.m.
September 27, 2025: Oak Hill School Gathering, 6:30 p.m. A meal is served on a free-will donation basis, accompanied by music. The public is welcome to attend.
September 28, 2025: ILASCO Holy Chapel Mass, 9:00 a.m.
October 15, 2025: RCHS Meeting, 10:00 a.m., Perry City Hall
October 25, 2025: Oak Hill School Gathering, 6:30 p.m. A meal is served on a free-will donation basis, accompanied by music. The public is welcome to attend.
October 26, 2025: ILASCO Holy Chapel Mass, 9:00 a.m.
Executive Committee (15 members): The blank spots below indicate vacancies on our executive committee that need to be filled. If you are interested in being a representative on the executive committee, please contact Delores Woodhurst at 573-248-7445 or dvwoodhurst@gmail.com.
Officers (5)
President: Ron Leake
Vice-President: Delores Woodhurst
Secretary: Carolyn Trower
Treasurer: Jeanie Gay
Directors (10)
Center Township: Jan Golian
Spencer Township: Gina Jameson
Salt River Township: Cindy Lynn
Jasper Township: Lola McDonald
Saline Township: NEEDED
Clay Township: NEEDED
Saverton Township: Bill Dexheimer
Perry: Sandie Storm
Center: Mary Jackson
New London: Brad Stinson
Next Meeting: RCHS's next meeting will be Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Perry City Hall. A program will be presented at 11:00 a.m. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The meeting adjourned at 10:56 a.m. Following the meeting, Mark Schneider, Development and Marketing Manager for The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, presented an informative program about the organization's current activities.
Lasagna Supper 2023 a Success
Lasagna Supper 2023 a Success
Thanks to the support of the entire county, the Ralls County Historical Society’s lasagna supper fundraiser was a success. This was an opportunity for those in attendance to renew or begin their membership to the Historical Society.
After supper, Ron Leake, president of the Historical Society, shared an overview of projects that the Historical Society is currently working on. After thanking the many volunteers and donors that worked to make the event a success, Ron handed the program over to John Wallace to begin the auction.
These amazing ladies were some of the individuals that baked the donated food and served it at the 2023 Lasagna Supper.
Thank you to the following individuals for their contributions to the auction:
Bill and Judy Heim, East Edge Express
Debbie Hodges
Tara Comer, Ralls County Collector
Ralls County Groovy Gardeners Master Gardener Group
Richard and Janet Berry
Linda Hodges
Michelle Keil, Gateway Realty
Luke Mitchell, High Point Land Company
Bailey Beef Company
Shirley Levings, Arlington Antiques
Corey and Alex Fry, The Junction
Delores Woodhurst
Marie Lawrence and Judy Heim
Sharon Wright, The Flower Shoppe
John Lake, Brian Hodges, Junior Meuhring, Ralls County Commissioners
Brandy Flynn, Ralls County Clerk
Gina Jameson, Ralls County Circuit Clerk & Recorder
The feature item of the evening was a painting of the Ralls County Courthouse. The painting will be on display at the museum, and the owners’ names will be shown alongside the painting. Below is the list of this year’s proud co-owners of the painting.
Ernest Nelson Harlow Family
Raleigh Roy Diffenderfer Family
John and Sharon Lake
Brian & Linda Hodges
Scott & Ashley Hodges
Brian & Delores Woodhurst
Beinhoff Funeral Home
Bill & Judy Heim
John & Mary Wallace
Charlie & Mary Sue Mitchell
Shawn & Michele Keil
If you want to be involved with the Historical Society, please send an email (rwleake@aol.com) or get in touch with Ron Leake (573-248-6147), Linda Hodges, Sharon Lake, Carolyn Trower, or Delores Woodhurst. We are hoping that volunteers will continue to spend time organizing the museum and keeping it in good condition. We are always in need of volunteers to be at the museum during the summer hours when it is open. Also, it’s not too late to become a member of the Ralls County Historical Society. Individual, family, and business memberships are available. A membership form is available on our website (rallscohistoricalsociety.com).
Ralls County Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations and memberships are tax deductible. Ralls County Historical Society is a 100% volunteer-run organization that relies on fundraisers, membership dues, and donations to provide ongoing services to the entire county. All money raised by the Ralls County Historical Society is used to continue to preserve and share local artifacts and our county’s history.
We appreciate your support!
We appreciate your support!
One way to support the Ralls County Historical Society is to become a member. Click here to print out a membership form, or if you prefer, click here to complete the form online. Payments and paperwork can be mailed to the following address:
Ralls County Historical Society
PO Box 463
Perry, MO 63462
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Ron, Sharon, or Delores.
Physical Address:
Ralls County Historical Museum
105 East Main Street
Perry, MO 63462
Ralls County Historical Library
124 East Main Street
Perry, MO 63462
Missouri Mule Museum
114 East Main Street
Perry, MO 63462
Mailing Address:
Ralls County, Missouri Historical Society
PO Box 463
Perry, MO 63462
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