jan 1, 1870 - Strawberry Hill and Mathias Splitlog

Description:

Strawberry Hill was originally called Splitlog Hill after Mathias Splitlog (1818-1893), a Wyandot mill owner and real estate dealer who purchased the area and built a mansion in 1870. Splitlog is sometimes referred to as “the millionaire Indian.” Without formal education he demonstrated a mechanical ability designing a steamboat that he constructed for Missouri river freight service. He also was the founder and planner for the Kansas City, Fort Smith & Southern Railway. He designed a special railcar for himself called “Bird in Hand.” The rail line eventually was incorporated into the Kansas City Southern Railway.

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