Poplar Heights Farm is pleased to announce the acquisition of the historic Atkeson Cabin

It's just 17 feet square, made of old logs with a curling split shingle roof. Heat and cooking come from a stone fireplace, light from the window or a candle. There are no furnishings. Yet, this small cabin was home to history - from the man who used it for his U.S. Congressional office to the books he wrote detailing the history of Bates and Cass Counties. Simply called the "Atkeson Cabin", it is the focus of a major restoration program being undertaken by the Marais des Cygnes Society. When this project is completed next spring, the Atkeson Cabin will have a new home at the edge of a pine grove at Poplar Heights Living History Farm in central Bates county, Missouri. "This is an important part of western Missouri's heritage and we are pleased we are able to rescue and preserve this historic cabin, said Brian Phillips, 

Executive Director of the Marias des Cygnes Society. "We are fortunate to have engaged the Patton House Moving Company, known for their work on historic properties, to move the cabin. Work has begun at Poplar Heights Farm on the foundation and we anticipate the cabin will be moved in November, weather permitting. Then we have much restoration work to accomplish before a dedication planned for next summer."
 
The Atkeson Cabin will be used as a focal point for teaching visitors about the history of Bates county and the man who did so much to preserve her history. Plans are also underway to begin literacy programs for elementary level students in the area which would focus on reading education utilizing historic figures from the area's past. Anyone with information on the family of W.O. Atkeson, the cabin or his literary works is urged to contact Phillips at info@poplarheightsfarm.org. Updates on the progress of the restoration will be posted on the website: www.poplarheightsfarm.org under "News"

William Oscar Atkeson 1854-1931 Author Newspaper Publisher Congressman Born on a farm in West Virginia, W.O. Atkeson went on to serve as a U.S. Congressman from Missouri. Along the way he graduated college, taught school, became a lawyer, owned several newspapers, wrote history books and novels, and served on several state commissions. He is most known, however, for his "History of Bates and Cass Counties". Written in a log cabin just south of Butler, Missouri, it has become the premier source for western Missouri history and genealogy.

Miami FCCLA Booster Club Trivia Night

Are you full of useless knowledge? Do you love showing off your smarts? Come out and prove it at Miami FCCLA Booster Club’s Trivia Night on Friday, November 15^th starting at 6:00, in the Miami School Cafeteria! Get your team together and come compete! Teams may be up to 10 people, $5 per player. There will be 10 categories with 10 questions each. The team that gets the most questions right will win! Walking tacos, dessert, and a drink will be available for $5. Come out and enjoy the friends, food, and fun!  Any questions call 660-267-3444 or email scrawford4@marykay.com

Search Warrant Served In Butler

10/29/2013, with the combined efforts of the Butler Police Department and the Bates County Sheriff’s Office, a successful search warrant was served at the residence of Matthew S. Frost, 33, 100 East Atkison Street, Butler, MO for the alleged distribution of a controlled substance. During the search of the property, several drug paraphernalia items and controlled substances were found. Frost was arrested on scene without an incident and has been charged with distribution of a controlled substance. His bond was set at $25,000.00 cash or surety.

Weather Update: Very Windy Today

Expect a VERY windy day today! Winds will gradually increase this morning and peak this afternoon. Wind speeds between 20 and 30 mph are likely, and we could have gusts higher than 40 mph! Make sure to use caution this afternoon when driving, and make sure to have all those loose items outside stored or put away.

UPDATE: 1 Vehicle Accident On D Highway East Of Passaic

Around 5:50pm last night Missouri State Highway Patrol along with Bates County Sheriff's Department, Adrian Fire Department, Butler Fire Department and Bates County EMS all responded to a 1 vehicle accident on D Highway around 8 miles East of Passiac. 

The accident occurred when the 1997 Buick Lesabre driven by 45 year old Bradley A. Simmons of Urich Missouri was traveling East Bound On D Highway and traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a embankment and overturned ejecting the man from the car. Mr. Simmons was transported by air ambulance to Research Medical Center in Kansas City Missouri with serious injuries. 

The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and the vehicle was towed from the scene by Adrian tow and was totaled.

House Fire In Rich Hill

The Rich Hill Fire Department is on scene of a house fire at 523 South 8th Street in Rich Hill. Right now it's unknown the cause of the fire or if anyone was home at the time. The Butler Fire Department is standing by for assistance if needed.  Bates County Live will update this when more information is available.

Bates County Sheriff's Office Taking Sealed Bids

The Bates County Sheriff's Office is seeking sealed bids on the contents of the old Town Square hardware. There are many items that are new and are still in packages. The bids would need to be for all the contents and include a date for removal. You may view the contents by contacting Jami Page at 660-679-3232. Bids will be accepted until November 25th.

1 Vehicle Injury Accident On D Highway East Of Passaic

Adrian Fire Department along with Butler Fire Department is in route to a 1 vehicle accident on D Highway 8 miles East of Passaic. The car is in the North ditch on its side. Bates County EMS just reported that they was going to have life flight respond to this accident as well. Bates County Live will update this when more information becomes available.