Richland Christian Church
5301 Callaway Cty. Rd. 220, Kingdom City, MO Local significance of the building: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.
Callaway County was officially established in 1820 and named after Captain James Callaway, who fought and died in the War of 1812. The county grew rapidly, attracting settlers due to its fertile land and access to the Missouri River. Agriculture became the primary industry, and the county quickly became known for its production of tobacco, corn, and wheat.
During the American Civil War, Callaway County was deeply divided. While some residents were sympathetic to the Union cause, others supported the Confederacy. The county witnessed several skirmishes and battles, including the notorious Burning of Callaway, in which a group of Union soldiers burned down the town of Fulton. After the war, the county slowly rebuilt its economy and community.
In the 20th century, Callaway County saw significant developments and growth. The construction of the Callaway Nuclear Generating Station near the town of Reform brought new jobs and economic opportunities to the area. The county also became a popular tourist destination, boasting attractions such as the William Woods University and the National Churchill Museum, which houses artifacts related to Winston Churchill. Today, Callaway County continues to thrive as a vibrant community, blending its rich history with modern advancements.
Callaway County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Callaway County, Missouri.
- 1818: Callaway County is established in the Missouri Territory.
- 1821: Missouri becomes a state, and Callaway County becomes part of the new state.
- 1825: The city of Fulton is founded and becomes the county seat.
- 1835: William Woods University is founded in Fulton.
- 1861-1865: Callaway County experiences the effects of the American Civil War.
- 1874: The first railroad reaches Callaway County, boosting economic development.
- 1889: Westminster College is founded in Fulton.
- 1946: Winston Churchill delivers his famous "Iron Curtain" speech at Westminster College.
- 1993: The National Churchill Museum is established at Westminster College.
- Present: Callaway County continues to grow and develop, with an emphasis on agriculture, education, and manufacturing.