The South Howard County Historical Society in New Franklin will host an event called “A Modern-Day Encounter with the Santa Fe Trail,” on Saturday, August 28. The event will take place at 4 p.m. at 110 East Broadway in downtown New Franklin. 

The Santa Fe Trail Bicentennial is scheduled for September 1, which is the 200-year anniversary of when William Becknell set off on his initial trek down the trail, opening up the Boonslick region to valuable trade contacts and increasing Missouri’s economic and social standing.

For the Modern-Day Encounter program, Les Vilda, who traversed the Santa Fe Trail in the 1980s, will give a narrative slide presentation about his experiences on the trail.

Following the presentation, the historical society will serve a chuckwagon-style dinner in front of the South Howard County Historical Society Museum at 6 p.m. The Cooper County Cattleman’s Association will prepare the meals.

A steak dinner with sides, dessert, and a drink will cost $25. A hamburger, chips, dessert, and drink will cost $12.

Dinner tickets much be purchased in advance. They are available at Exchange Bank in New Franklin or from any South Howard County Historical Society member.

This is an endorsed activity with the Missouri Bicentennial Projects through the Center for Missouri Studies at The State Historical Society of Missouri.