Dr. Elijah McLean’s Enduring Legacy

In 1834, as Missouri was still taking shape as a state, Dr. Elijah McLean began construction on what would become one of Washington’s most significant historical landmarks. His beloved estate, aptly named “Edgewater” for its position along the banks of the Missouri River, was completed on Christmas Day 1839, when Dr. McLean officially moved into the home that would remain at the center of his life and the growing community.

Early Beginnings

Dr. McLean’s own story mirrors the pioneering spirit of early Missouri. At just six years old, he arrived with his family in Howard County in 1810, settling in what was then dense wilderness. In those early frontier days, only seven families lived west of L’outre Island near the mouth of the Gasconade River. These were challenging times—Dr. McLean’s brother, William, tragically lost his life in conflicts with native tribes.

From Medicine to Community Leadership

After studying medicine under Dr. John Jones of Warren County, Elijah McLean established his medical practice in New Port in 1824. His personal life and professional standing grew together: in 1831, he married Judith Rule, the widow of Preston Rule, a pioneer storekeeper, and moved to Union.
His vision for Washington began taking shape in 1830 when he purchased his first parcel of land from William Owens. Over the following years, he acquired additional large tracts from William Traesdell, Phillip Miller, Isaiah Todd, and others, eventually amassing more than 600 acres near what would become Washington’s townsite. Much of this land now lies within Washington’s city limits.

Founding Father of Washington

Washington’s official incorporation came through an act of the Missouri legislature on February 15, 1841. At the first town election, held on May 31 of that year, Dr. McLean was elected as one of seven original trustees alongside William Cowherd, Andrew Cochran, Dan Q. Gale, John Bihr, Samuel McAllister, and Samuel Beecher. His role in establishing and governing the early town cemented his place as one of Washington’s founding fathers.

Personal Life at Edgewater

Dr. McLean’s life at Edgewater saw both joy and sorrow. His first wife, Judith, passed away at their riverside home on May 9, 1855. The following year, on August 11, 1856, he married Miss Mary C. Stafford, the accomplished daughter of Reverend James Stafford of Illinois. This union was blessed with seven children. After Mary’s death on November 2, 1871, Dr. McLean remained a widower for the rest of his days.

Legacy Beyond Medicine

After practicing medicine for twenty-six years in the county, Dr. McLean retired from his professional life in 1850. He then dedicated his time to managing his farm, which primarily lay within what would later become the suburbs of Washington. In 1853, he joined the Presbyterian Church, the same religious community in which Judith and Mary had both been members.

Dr. Elijah McLean lived a remarkably long life for his era, passing away on July 2, 1898, at the age of 94. By then, the wilderness he had encountered as a child had transformed into a thriving community, due in no small part to his own vision and contributions.

Edgewater Today

Today, we honor Dr. McLean’s legacy by preserving the historic charm of Edgewater while creating new traditions within its storied walls. As you dine at Mangia Bella or enjoy the exclusive atmosphere of our Members-Only Lounge, you’re participating in the next chapter of this landmark’s remarkable history—a history that began with one pioneer physician’s dream alongside the flowing waters of the Missouri River.

For reservations at Mangia Bella at Elijah McLean’s, click here.