About Us
The History of Granby
In 1850, William Foster was traveling through Missouri on his way to St. Louis when he stopped at the home of settler Madison Vickery. Mr. Vickery had been digging along Gum Spring Branch (a creek) and discovered some unusually heavy rocks. Recognizing the rocks as galena ore, Mr. Foster never made it to St. Louis. Instead, Mr. Vickery sank a shaft and began harvesting the ore. This marked the beginning of many mining operations and led to the famous “Granby Stampede” two years later.
By 1859, the mining boom had drawn hundreds of miners to the area, and Section Six (Granby) grew to a population of over 8,000.
Growth and Industry
The railroad arrived in 1856, and a lease for Section Six was granted to Peter F. Blow and F. B. Kennett. In 1857, they formed the Granby Mining and Smelting Company to smelt lead ore. The company operated throughout the Civil War, during which the smelter was held alternately by Union and Confederate troops. The Confederates eventually blew up the furnaces to prevent Union use.
After the war, the company was reorganized under Henry T. Blow as president, with Peter F. Blow, James B. Eads, Charles K. Dixon, and Barton Bates as stockholders. For the next 50 years, the smelting company formed the economic backbone of Granby.
By 1869, the mining camps had evolved into a thriving town with over 30 retail businesses. Granby’s prosperity continued for nearly a century, driven largely by the mining industry.
Decline and Renewal
In the early 1950s, what was once believed to be an inexhaustible supply of ore began to run out. The Granby Mining and Smelting Company dissolved, and the mines shut down. Granby then became a small bedroom and retiree community, with a population hovering between 2,000 and 2,200.
Recently, city leadership has renewed its commitment to growth. This year marks the beginning of a long-term infrastructure upgrade, starting with a brand-new sewer and water treatment plant. Future plans include a new water system, street repairs, and attracting new businesses to the area.
Preserving Our Heritage
The Granby Historical Society, formed in 1984, maintains the Granby Museum on Main Street. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and literature documenting Granby’s rich mining history.
Current Historical Society Members:
-
Steve Burnett, President
-
Stan Carter, Vice President
-
RJ Savage, Secretary/Treasurer
-
Jann Burnett, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer
-
Board Members: Elaine Savage, Misty Carter, Pat Kelly, Sharon Woodruff, Stan Patterson, Pat Styron
These dedicated individuals are passionate about preserving Granby’s past. The photographs displayed on this page are part of the museum’s collection.
We invite you to visit the Granby Museum when you’re in town — it’s a journey worth taking!
Kingston
Blow
Frisco train depot
Main St