Historical Markers in Barton County, Missouri
The "Show-Me State" is Missouri's official nickname and is believed to have originated from a speech given by Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver in 1899. He said, "I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats, and frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I am from Missouri. You have got to show me."
About Barton County
Barton County Timeline
Barton County, Missouri, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Osage and Delaware, who thrived on the fertile lands along the streams and rivers.
European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, leading to the establishment of small farming communities. The county was officially organized in 1855 and named after David Barton, a prominent lawyer and senator from Missouri. The construction of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century brought economic growth and development to the area, boosting trade and agriculture.
During the American Civil War, Barton County experienced its share of conflicts, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers residing in the region. The Battle of Island Mound, fought in 1862, was the first battle where African American soldiers engaged in combat on behalf of the Union. The county's history during this time reflects the tensions and struggles faced by communities across Missouri.
In more recent years, Barton County has remained largely agricultural, with farming and ranching being the main economic activities. The county has also seen growth in industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, Barton County continues to preserve and celebrate its heritage through various historical sites, museums, and events that highlight its past and the contributions of its residents to the development of southwest Missouri.
European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, leading to the establishment of small farming communities. The county was officially organized in 1855 and named after David Barton, a prominent lawyer and senator from Missouri. The construction of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century brought economic growth and development to the area, boosting trade and agriculture.
During the American Civil War, Barton County experienced its share of conflicts, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers residing in the region. The Battle of Island Mound, fought in 1862, was the first battle where African American soldiers engaged in combat on behalf of the Union. The county's history during this time reflects the tensions and struggles faced by communities across Missouri.
In more recent years, Barton County has remained largely agricultural, with farming and ranching being the main economic activities. The county has also seen growth in industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, Barton County continues to preserve and celebrate its heritage through various historical sites, museums, and events that highlight its past and the contributions of its residents to the development of southwest Missouri.
Barton County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Barton County, Missouri.
- 1808: Barton County is organized
- 1833: Barton County officially becomes part of Missouri
- 1849: First post office is established in Lamar
- 1855: Barton County's first school is built
- 1872: The Missouri Pacific Railroad is built through Barton County
- 1881: The first public library is opened in Lamar
- 1886: The Barton County Courthouse is completed
- 1903: The city of Golden City is incorporated
- 1936: The Barton County Historical Society is founded
- 1976: The Golden Valley Memorial Hospital is established