This stereoscopic (double) set of photos is of the Sucker Flat mining fields, taken in 1877. Sucker Flat, of course, was where King Jack Park is now.

Old News

From the 3rd floor
of the Webb City Public Library

Sucker Flat mining fields were among the first in Webb City

Webb City Area Genealogical Society
February 8, 2023

The Sucker Flat mining fields were some of the earliest in the Webb City area as the accompanying 1877 stereoscopic view can attest.

A stereoscopic image created the illusion of depth by showing two slightly offset images separately to each eye of the viewer. A specialized device was used to view the dual images printed on a card.

This early dual view of the Sucker Flat mine fields was taken by Webb City photographers B. F. Pancoast & Co. They made photographic portraits, landscapes and stereoscopic views, noting that baby pictures were their specialty.

The Sucker Flat mines were located in the current location of King Jack Park.

In 1967, Webb City purchased approximately 154 acres from Mrs. Blanche Evans, widow of mine operator Fred “Mike” Evans, for use as a city park. A contest was held to name the new park. Mrs. Jone Poyner’s entry, King Jack Park, was the winner. She received a $25 savings bond.

This photo of Sucker Flat mine was taken nearly 25 years after the stereoscopic photo at the top, circa 1900.

Sentinel bound volumes are now in the Genealogy Room

The WCAGS has accepted ownership of the complete collection of bound volumes of the Webb City Sentinel, from 1983 (after the fire) until the final issue on Dec. 30, 2020.

Those issues can also be viewed on microfilm, along with much older issues.

Webb City Area Genealogical Society

WCAGS members staff the Genealogy Room on the third floor of the Webb City Public Library. Current hours are noon to 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month in the Genealogy Room.

Everything you want to know about Jasper County Missouri Schools is available at a site compiled by Webb City Area Genealogical Society member Kathy Sidenstricker.