Ep. 168 - The Old Ozarks - Moses Austin Finds Lashins and Lavins of Lead

When you hear the name “Austin” - Texas might come to mind but its roots run deep in the rocky soil of Missouri’s lead belt.

In this third episode of The Old Ozarks, historian Dr. Brooks Blevins unearths a forgotten chapter of Ozarks history: how the rise of lead mining in southeastern Missouri shaped early America, laid the groundwork for industrial expansion, and gave rise to one of Texas’s founding fathers.

Summary:

Meet Moses Austin: a Connecticut-born entrepreneur whose mining empire in Potosi, Missouri transformed the Ozarks into an industrial hub long before the Wild West was even wild.

From the French and Spanish colonial roots of lead mining to the enslaved labor that powered it, Moses Austin's ambition (and eventual downfall) led his son, Stephen F. Austin, to fulfill a vision that would forever change American history.

Whether you’re a fan of regional history, American industrialization, or Ozark folklore, this story-rich episode is a must-listen.

What is The Old Ozarks?

The Old Ozarks is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, the leading authority on the region’s history, this podcast explores the lives, legends, and landscapes that have shaped this unique region.

Whether you’re a native Ozarker, a new resident, or a curious listener, join us as we share the stories that make the Ozarks special and connect us to our past.