State of Missouri Note Signed by Governor Silas Woodson - Jefferson, Missouri 1874

Beautifully engraved note from the State of Missouri issued in 1874. This historic document was printed by R.F. Sandler Company and has an ornate border around it with a vignette of the state seal of an allegorical woman and two bears. This item has the signatures of the Governor of Missouri, Silas Woodson and the Act'g Paymaster General and is over 135 years old.


Back of Certificate

Missouri Governor Silas Woodson

Born: May 18, 1819

Died: October 9, 1896

Birth State: Kentucky

Party: Democratic

Periods in Office: From: January 3, 1873 To: January 12, 1875

SILAS WOODSON, the twenty-first governor of Missouri, was born in Knox County, Kentucky on May 18, 1819. His early education was attained in the public schools of his native state. He later studied law, and was admitted to the bar in 1840. Woodson first entered politics as a member of the Kentucky Legislature, a position he held in 1842 and 1853.

He was a delegate to the 1849 Kentucky Constitutional Convention, and served as the circuit attorney from 1843 to 1848. He also served on the bench of the 12th Judicial District in 1862. Woodson next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote on November 5, 1872. He was sworn into office on January 3, 1873.

During his tenure, the state tax rate was reduced; the southeast Missouri state teachers’ college was founded; the construction on the Eads bridge in St, Louis was completed; the state deficit was cut; and the first kindergarten class was launched in St. Louis. After completing his term, Woodson left office on January 12, 1875. Ten years later, he secured an appointment to serve as judge of the Buchanan County Criminal Court, a position he held until 1895. Governor Silas Woodson passed away on October 9, 1896, and was buried in the Mt. Mora Cemetery in St. Joseph, Missouri.

History from Wikipedia and OldCompanyResearch.com.