“Missouri in 1861: The Rise and Fall of John and Jessie Fremont”

Lecture, Power Point and Q&A describing Gen. John C. Fremont’s 100 days in command of the Western Department of the US Army, and his wife’s role in his campaigns and edicts. His territory included the States of Illinois and Missouri, and all states or territories west of there to the Rocky Mountains. The discussion revolves around the reasons Fremont was relieved of his command, and explains the impact of a controversial pronouncement opening the door to emancipation of enslaved persons, long before President Lincoln would consider the subject.