John M. Malang profile from the Joplin History people archive.
Father of Good Roads – John M. Malang
John M. Malang, originally from Tennessee, moved to the Tri-State District with his wife, Anna, in 1879 to participate in the mining boom. His involvement in mining lasted until 1910. Malang's journey into public life began with a notable speech during a political rally in 1896, where he expressed his views on the "Free Silver" issue, drawing the attention of Tom Connor, president of the Miners' Bank. Connor's encouragement led Malang into Republican politics, where he became known for his persuasive speaking, underpinned by his self-taught knowledge and gentlemanly demeanor.
Malang's political career included an appointment to the state Senate in 1907, following the death of Senator-elect Connor, and later election to the Senate. In 1914, he shifted his focus from partisan politics to managing the Joplin Special Road District, recognizing the need for better roads with the rise in automobile usage. He advocated for hard-surface roads, such as concrete for primary roads and chat-surfaced secondary roads. His efforts in Joplin set a precedent for road development in Missouri.
In 1913, following the organization of the State Highway Department, Malang became a vocal advocate for federal aid in highway construction. His influence led to Federal Aid Project No. 2 in 1917, a significant step in constructing concrete highways in the state. Malang's approach often involved building roads parallel to railroad lines for ease of material transportation.
As the superintendent of state highways in 1919, appointed by Gov. Frederick Gardner, Malang led a campaign for a $60 million road bond issue to improve Missouri's roads. His vision for the state's road system, known as the "Malang Plan," laid the groundwork for Missouri's primary and secondary road networks. His role in the State Highway Commission lasted until 1921.
From 1923 onwards, Malang served as the director of the Good Roads Bureau of the Automobile Club of Missouri, advocating for road financing through a gasoline tax and motor vehicle registration fees. In 1927, he initiated a campaign for a new $120 million bond issue, but tragically suffered a heart attack and passed away in Kansas City in September 1928.
In honor of his vast contributions to Missouri's road development, a plaque was dedicated to Malang's memory in the state Capitol. Charles Matthews, chairman of the Missouri State Highway Commission, commemorated Malang's vision for a long road from Joplin to St. Louis. John Maurice Malang, often referred to as the "Father of Good Roads" in Missouri, was celebrated with a bronze memorial tablet in the state Capitol in Jefferson City, recognizing his tireless efforts and visionary approach to road construction and infrastructure development outside of partisan politics.