In the days when horse power was literal, existed a tiny developed "burb" a few miles to the west of Hannibal, Missouri: Oakwood.

Divided by the county line down the midst of the town's main corridor, the unique community developed a personality all its own. It reflected a blend of agriculture, commerce and transportation.

Led, beginning in the late years of the 19th Century, by community leaders such as Attorney John J. Henderson, descendants of pioneer William Darr, J.W. Link and his offspring, and many more, thriving businesses offered goods and services necessary for the growth and prosperity of this small community.

Proud residents built frame and brick homes clustered upon the hills overlooking the valley, where three competing steam railroads rolled, and where the unpredictable flow of Bear Creek coursed through the valley.Oakwood's inhabitants gained a unique resilience by rebounding each time obstacles obstructed their path.