(Greenfield, IA) – An historical re-enactor and Iowa book author on the First Trains Robbery West of the Mississippi River, spoke by telephone to the Adair County Board of Supervisors during their meeting this (Wednesday) morning, to request the recovery of railroad rails associated with Jesse James train robbery. Turkey Creek is associated with Jesse James because the first-ever robbery of a moving train occurred near its bridge on July 21, 1873, just west of Adair, Iowa. The James-Younger gang derailed the Rock Island Railroad train by dislodging a rail on the curve near the Turkey Creek bridge

Gene Stevens said he and another James historical enthusiast explored the site together.

An expert looked at the track pictures Steven took, and verified the time period they are from.

Stevens said he hopes the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad will assist in making pieces of the track available to area museums. He thinks pieces of the track will be a great addition to the Jesse James monument near Adair.

Jesse James Historical Park (Adair County photo)

Supervisor Jerry Walker said the ground the track lays on is owned by the Adair County Conservation Department. Adair County Conservation Director Dominic Johnson said he doesn’t have a problem with the request, but he would like a piece of the track for the historical Adair County Historical Museum.

Supervisor Jodie Hoadley said the group would need to have proof of insurance to cover any accidents associated with the removal of the rails. Stevens said he thinks the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad has the necessary insurance, but will double-check to make sure. The Board unanimously approved the request to recover rails for the specified use.

In other business, the Adair County Board of Supervisors held a Public Hearing on a FY 26 Budget Amendment. Auditor Mandy Berg…

Following the hearing, the Board approved the Budget Resolution as presented, and an associated Appropriations Resolution.