Date of Award

1994

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Communications

First Advisor

Michael Castro

Second Advisor

Carolyn Scott

Third Advisor

Jim Wilson

Abstract

In 1940, the U. S. Government acquired approximately 18,000 acres of land, known as Howell's Prairie, located in St. Charles County, Missouri. Before the ink dried on the purchase contracts and before the government made payment for the land, construction on a TNT/DNT (explosives) plant began. This 35 minute documentary tells about the history of the area, the story behind the acquisition of the property and the impact of the acquisition on the former land owners and residents.

The history of Howell's Prairie from the early 1800s through 1940 is an important part of the land acquisition story. The roots of the early settlers such as Boone, Stewart and Howell run deep and local historians tell about the impact of early settlements on Missouri and the United States. Therefore, when the government tried to purchase the land for the construction of a TNT /DNT plant, local opposition was strong.

The acquisition of the land proved to be difficult, long and controversial. Even though the landowners eventually signed contracts to sell their land, the government stopped payment half way through the purchasing process. Lengthy court battles began with court cases eventually making their way to the Supreme Court. The delay in payment, brought on by lengthy court battles, exceeded the length of the World War II and caused great hardship for many of the land owners. Thus, the program explores the actions taken by the government, the reasons behind their actions and the impact on the landowners.

Throughout the documentary, personal interviews are used to help us understand the story behind Howell's Prairie and the construction of the Weldon Spring Ordnance Works.

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