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Carthage, Missouri...
Founded in 1842, Carthage prospered before
the Civil War but was destroyed by the guerrilla warfare
that raged in this area. With the opportunity to rebuild
after the war, the town again prospered and attracted
many eager investors and entrepreneurs. By the end of
the nineteenth century, Carthage had more millionaires
per capita than any other city in the United States. Mining
was the source of much of this wealth. Rich deposits of
lead and zinc were discovered to the west and an electric
streetcar line that ran from Carthage to the mine fields
made it possible for the mine owners to build fine homes
in Carthage and ride to work on the streetcar. Huge deposits
of gray marble at the north edge of Carthage provided
another source of wealth. Five flour mills located here
because a variety of wheat grown here was desirable for
cake flour. Several factories were started by the enterprising
men who were attracted to Carthage. Bankers, doctors,
and lawyers were needed to serve the growing community.
So, Carthage was rebuilt from the Civil War ruins during
the Victorian era and at a time of local prosperity.
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