When we see a Christmas tree today, with its branches decorated with lights, ornaments, and garland, and gifts stacked underneath, we think of it as the most natural centerpiece of the season. But the idea of bringing an evergreen tree into the living room was once so unusual that many found it eccentric or even scandalous. The story of how Christmas trees went from being unconventional to essential is a fascinating one to explore.

From candlelit trees in 16th‑century Germany to the dazzling spectacle of Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza and Clinton’s own courthouse and downtown square, Christmas lights have always carried a special magic. They brighten winter nights, stir nostalgia, and bring friends and families together. Our latest article traces this enduring tradition through history, including vivid accounts from the Clinton Eye in 1929.

This story is about Lawrence Wesley Brown, a Missouri-born inventor and entrepreneur whose life stretched from 1881 to 1960. It traces his journey from a farm boy in Henry County to a prolific inventor and businessman. The story highlights his personal life, inventive accomplishments, and the challenges he faced, including family tragedies and industrial disasters, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. 

Richard Brooks never intended to become an artist—at least not in any formal sense. But from the moment he could hold a pencil, he couldn't stop drawing. It wasn’t just a habit—it was an obsession. Every sheet of paper, every scrap, bore his sketches.

Welcome to the Articles section of the Henry County Museum website—a space dedicated to storytelling and historical reflection. As guardians of our shared heritage, we created this feature to go beyond basic history. Our goal is to spark curiosity and deepen our readers’ understanding of our community.