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Charles S. Broomfield has been named to the board of directors of The James Preservation Trust, filling the seat vacated by the passing of Judge James R. Ross, the great grandson of the American outlaw icon Jesse James.
The former Clay County, Missouri, judge & county commissioner has a long association with the historical interests of the James family. When he was a county commissioner, Broomfield arranged for the acquisition of James Farm from Jesse’s grandson Lawrence Barr, preserving the James family farm as a county museum, open to visitors.
Recently, Judge Broomfield assisted the James Preservation Trust in addressing the issue of missing artifacts from the museum. Museum managers did not maintain an adequate management system of verifiable inventory. Clay County Commissioners have since employed a professional archivist.
Since attending the James family’s reunion in 2002, Judge Broomfield consistently has supported the actions of the Trust. “I think it’s important that The James Preservation Trust stay involved with the County and Museum.”
Formerly, Judge Broomfield served four terms in the Missouri House of Representatives. For two terms, he served as Assistant Majority Floor Leader. Recently, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon appointed him Chairman of the Clay County Election Board. Broomfield is a graduate of William Jewell College.
In welcoming Broomfield as vice president of the Trust, president Eric James stated, “Before Judge Ross died, he made several recommendations for new directors of the Trust. Charlie was among the top of the list. But we had to wait some time until Charlie stopped cruising the world as a retiree. We’re thrilled to put him back to work in Clay County to represent the historical interests of the James family and the James Preservation Trust.”

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Daily updates from the family of Frank & Jesse James with stories, photos, & two searchable genealog