Overland Historical Society

All members and potential members are encouraged to attend the General Membership Meetings held on a regular basis by the Society. Come and find out what plans the Society has in store and enjoy a social break and a special guest speaker at each meeting.

The Log House Site

The first and most significant construction on our site is the Log House. The structure is authentic and was dismantled from its original location overlooking the Missouri River just west of Wild Horse Creek Road and rebuilt by members on the current site. It dates to the mid 1800s.

The two-story log house is built in a "dog-trot" design. Since useable lengths of logs only grew so long, this method of construction allowed for a larger building. The dog-trot refers to the space between what was actually two log cabins. Dogs were often found enjoying whatever breeze was available in the open center. The original owners enclosed the dog-trot for addition of an entry-way and stairs.

Within the parlor, bedroom, keeping room and dog-trot are several items from the 1800's. This is a rare opportunity to take a step back into the past and experience what life must have been like in those days.

The log barn exhibit includes tools and farm implements. We have a covered wagon and buggy on display as well.

The latest additions to the historic site include a smoke house and outhouse. The smoke house was once located between Clayton and Manchester Roads, close to Lindbergh Blvd. Visitors should also take a peek inside the authentic "single-hole" outhouse that was constructed as an Eagle Scout project by one of our younger members.

The Society acquired an additional parcel of property that it uses as a museum, gift shop and office. The museum features exhibits of Overland and the Overland Trail. Take a moment to enjoy our country store and changing local history displays. One room contains memorabilia of the Ritenour School District. A good selection of merchandise is available for purchase in our gift shop, including our cookbook. Another building on the site is used for the preservation and storage of our collection.

Committees

We have dozens of activities in which you may participate. You can assist with the planning and operation of our historic site by becoming a valuable addition on a committee of your choice. Our members can enjoy volunteering as site tour guides, gift shop staff, annual bus tour assistants, or lending a hand keeping the buildings and grounds looking wonderful.

Our Annual Events

Annual Candlelight Tour

Held the second weekend of each December, this event is a holiday tradition for many area families. For new visitors, it is a great opportunity to experience what it was like to celebrate the holidays during the 1800s.

Enjoy the site with holiday decorations of the era. Our antique organ in the parlor is put to good use, as well as the working fireplaces and refreshment table in the keeping room, where we serve warm spiced cider and homemade cookies. Plan to tour our museum adjacent to the log house. The log barn is also open for touring.