Carter County, Missouri

Carter County, Missouri, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Delaware. These tribes relied on the abundant natural resources, including the Current River, for sustenance and trade.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to move into the region. The creation of Carter County can be traced back to 1859, when it was established from parts of Oregon and Shannon Counties. The county was named after Zimri A. Carter, an early settler and state legislator.

During the Civil War, Carter County was divided, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The Battle of Current River, fought in April 1864, resulted in a Confederate victory and left a lasting impact on the county. Many historical markers and monuments can still be found in the area, commemorating this significant event.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the timber industry boomed in Carter County. The dense forests provided abundant logging opportunities, attracting many lumber companies to the area. However, overlogging eventually led to the decline of the industry, and the economy shifted to other sectors such as agriculture and tourism. Today, Carter County is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and historical landmarks, making it a popular destination for visitors from all over.
Brief timeline of the history of Carter County, Missouri:

  • 1829 - Carter County is established as a county in the state of Missouri.
  • 1843 - The first permanent settlements are established in Carter County.
  • 1862 - The Battle of Current River takes place during the American Civil War.
  • 1872 - Van Buren becomes the county seat of Carter County.
  • 1901 - The Current River State Park is established in Carter County.
  • 1979 - The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is designated a national park, including parts of Carter County.
  • 2002 - The largest earthquake in Missouri's history, measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale, hits Carter County.
  • 2010 - The population of Carter County reaches its highest point in history.

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