From the Foreword:

"One of the best ways to learn the history of a community is to study its buildings.  Joplin evolved from a ramshackle mining camp into a thriving city.  The influx of people from Europe, as well as from the eastern and southern United States, influenced the way it grew. Meanwhile, the industrial revolution radically changed building technology...  This overview of the architectural history of Joplin was written to commemorate Joplin's 125th birthday...."