Blackwater, Missouri

The old Blackwater News and the Boonville Newspapers afford many enjoyable tales and incidents in which Blackwater took part. Some seem humorous, though they may have not been considered that at the time.

Amanda Frady, widow with several children, built, owned and operated the hotel in Blackwater. It was known as the "City Hotel" or "The Frady House". Her boarders were mostly railroad workers since Missouri Pacific's new 'river route' had just been built, and drummers, or salesmen, who came through. Her daughter, Cora, fell in love with the owner of the tavern across the street, River Dee Caton, and they wanted to marry. However, since Caton operated a tavern, Amanda did not approve of this union and would not give her consent. While Amanda was on a visit in Kansas, the following occurred and appeared in the newspaper.

"River Dee Caton and Miss Cora Frady were married at Blackwater under difficulties. The relatives of Miss Frady objected to the marriage. Sunday morning last, the parties went to Nelson, intending to be married after services. Fred Roberts, a brother-in-law, heard of what was going on and followed them on a hand-car to Nelson, entered the church, brought the young lady home in a buggy. Caton followed them to Blackwater. In the afternoon, Roberts went to the train with the young lady, intending to take her to her mother, in Kansas. A crowd had gathered around the depot, and seizing the constable and Roberts, held them 'till the girl and Caton reached a carriage, in which they drove away. Roberts fired three shots after the fugitives, but did no damage, and they reached the home of a magistrate, where they were married. Roberts left for Kansas, to bring the girl's mother back, and it is probable all will be forgiven and quiet will reign on Blackwater once more."