In 1956, the town of Sullivan, Missouri celebrated the 100th Anniversary of its founding by Stephen and Dorcas Sullivan. The celebration was marked by a week of festivities and events, including a recreation of the hanging of Stephen Sullivan by Union soldiers during the Civil War.
Both the hanging, and the centennial celebration, were long forgotten through the years until the chance discovery of a box of slides that documented those events.
Looking back, the Centennial reminded residents that progress did not mean forgetting. Instead, it affirmed that the principals of hard work, family, and faith-values that built a railroad town in 1856—still mattered in 1956.
The Day They Hanged the Founder presents the history of Sullivan and the centennial celebration, including nearly 300 images taken during that week-long celebration in 1956.
Coming: Summer 2026!
Note: cover not finalized
About The Author
Tony & Annie Wessler
Tony and Annie Wessler are proud to call Sullivan, Missouri, home. Annie, with two engineering degrees from Washington University of St. Louis, is the analytical, fact-finding half of the team. Tony, whose professional past was more people-focused, enjoys reading and writing. As successful entrepreneurs in the retirement phase of their work-careers, the couple now find time to devote their energy to projects that they enjoy.
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