Herrman’s Historical Happenings week of February 12
1857 The Bates Co Court orders the old courthouse, at Papinville, be sold and a new courthouse be built in Butler.
1876 The Bates Co Record newspaper prints "Coal is so shallow in southwestern Bates County that it is struck digging a pond or well, or even a drainage ditch".
1927 Otto Frank of Rich Hill, is arrested after an investigation of his restaurant reveals several quarts of corn whiskey, wine and considerable home brew.
1954 Teachers and students of the Passaic school watch it burn to the ground after safely escaping. (McBee's location)
1976 The West Point township board members vote to build a community building. The property is purchased from Jack & Opal Armentrout for $2,000.
1993 news-Xpress contributor Nadine Meade writes that all homes in Ballard are occupied and the population is now 18.
1996 The Senior Center in Butler extends its services to Adrian, with 25 using the center. The Adrian Bank and SW Bell Telephone have supported the project. Also, State Rep. Jason Klumb presents a Missouri flag to the center in a special ceremony.
1998 Brad Vermaas, Butler grocer, is named president of the Bates Co Historical Society. He is also a member of the local Civil War re-enactors group.
