An unusual and exciting collection of genealogical and historical accounts, this work came about as the result of a dinner party held by Captain Martin J. Hubble. In attendance were those citizens who had lived in the Springfield (Missouri) area for at least thirty years. The invitations were sent to: J. M. Kelly, J. R. D. Thompson, A. H. Wilson, Captain John L. Holland, J. L. Carson, Judge J. Y. Fulbright, Hon. L. H. Murray, Dr. E. M. Hendricks, F. M. Shockley, and T. B. Holland.
When Rev. J. J. Lilly heard of the dinner, he suggested to Hubble, the group be called upon to write the early history of the city and county. As a result, "the Pioneer Citizens of the County and City" was born. The combined knowledge of these gentlemen was formidable, and the actual accounts given herein provide us with personal insight into the genealogy of the first settlers and the early history of the city and county from a firsthand perspective given by the oldest and most respected citizens, all of whom were sons of the founders of the city and county. This work includes a new full-name index.