Template:BoonesboroWarof1812
At the outbreak of the War of 1812 the settlers around Boonesboro, Missouri began construction of forts as refuges from British sponsored hostile Indian attacks. The settlers were spread out in farms along a fertile plain on the north side of the Missouri River and in small settlements on the south side so many forts were required to provide safety for all. In all, some 500 to 600 persons gathered in these forts for protection.
At the west end of the plain was the economic engine of the area, the Boone's Lick salt works. Boone's Lick was named after the sons of Daniel Boone and was in fact a series of saltwater springs. The saltwater was boiled down to produce salt crystals which were packaged and shipped to St. Louis at a profit. The Indian attacks became so severe by 1814 that the salt works were shut down until 1815 when peace was made with the warring Indian tribes.
North Side of River
- Cooper's Fort the largest of the forts
- McLean's Fort aka Fort Hempstead
- Fort Kincaid near river, about 1.5 miles from the site of Old Franklin; named for David Kincaid.
- Head's Fort, 4 miles above Rocheport on the Big Mohiteau, near the old Boonslick trail from St. Charles most easterly fort
South Side of River
- Sibley's Fort
- Cox's Fort
- Reid's Fort Blockhouse Burned
- Stephen Cole's Fort
- Hannah Cole's Fort, located on a bluff overlooking the river, at a point of rocks, where a lime-kiln once stood.
- McMahan's Fort Blockhouses burned located on the south side of the river, supposed to be about five miles from Cooper's Fort
