William Monks
A History of Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas
Being an Account of the Early Settlements, the Civil War, the Ku-Klux, and Times of Peace
"A History of Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas" by William Monks is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the early settlements in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas, highlighting significant events like the Civil War and the rise of local groups such as the Ku-Klux. Monks, sharing his personal experiences, sheds light on the lives and challenges faced by early settlers in these regions. The opening of the narrative introduces William Monks himself, detailing his family's migration from Alabama to Arkansas in the early 1840s. It paints a vivid picture of the early pioneering life, describing the harsh realities of settlement, wildlife abundance, and the use of pelts and honey as currency. Monks emphasizes the cooperative spirit among early settlers, the establishment of communities, and the gradual improvements in education and social structures. The introduction sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the cultural and historical developments in this area, establishing Monks as both a participant and a chronicler of these transformative times.