National Register Listing

Rodgers Theatre Building

204,214,216,218,220,222 and 224 N. Broadway, Poplar Bluff, MO
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The Missouri Ozarks region is home to the "Bald Knobbers", a vigilante group that formed in the 1880s to enforce the law in the area. They were named after the bald hilltops where they held their meetings and were known for wearing black hoods and using violence to maintain order.
Missouri random facts
Butler County, Missouri has a rich and storied history that dates back to its establishment in 1849. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Delaware, who utilized the land for hunting and trading. The county's name honors William O. Butler, a Kentucky congressman and hero of the Mexican-American War.

During the 19th century, Butler County experienced significant growth and development. The discovery of lead mines in the region led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of mining communities, such as Mine La Motte and Castor River. These mines played a crucial role in the county's economy and attracted a diverse population.

The county was deeply impacted by the Civil War, with the Battle of Mingo Swamp being a notable event. Confederate and Union forces clashed in the county, resulting in casualties and property damage. After the war, Butler County began to rebuild and diversify its economy. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton and grains, became a major sector, and the county's transportation infrastructure improved with the arrival of railroads.

In the 20th century, Butler County continued to evolve. The Great Depression brought economic hardships to the area, but the county would recover through government programs like the Works Progress Administration. The discovery of oil and natural gas deposits in the county further contributed to its economic growth. Today, Butler County stands as a testament to its vibrant past and serves as an important center for agriculture, industry, and commerce in southeastern Missouri.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Butler County, Missouri.

  • 1819 - Butler County is established as one of Missouri's original counties.
  • 1850s - The population of Butler County begins to increase due to the discovery of lead mines.
  • 1861-1865 - Butler County residents participate in the American Civil War, with some joining the Union army and others supporting the Confederacy.
  • 1880s - The railroad is introduced to Butler County, leading to increased economic development.
  • 1930s - Butler County, like the rest of the country, is significantly affected by the Great Depression.
  • 1940s-1950s - World War II and post-war economic boom bring changes and growth to Butler County.
  • 1970s-1990s - Butler County experiences advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
  • 2000s - The county faces challenges such as population decline and economic changes.