National Register Listing

Macon County Courthouse and Annex

Courthouse Sq., Macon, MO
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

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.

law courthouses buildings
The state of Missouri is home to several unique natural landmarks, including the Elephant Rocks State Park, which features giant granite boulders that resemble a herd of elephants, and the Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which has natural bridges, caves, and a castle ruin.
Missouri random facts
Macon County, located in north-central Missouri, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and the Missouria. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the region, and Macon County was officially established on January 6, 1837.

During the mid-19th century, Macon County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad in the 1850s connected the county to major markets and encouraged economic expansion. Macon City, the county seat, became a bustling center of trade and commerce. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's prosperity, with crops like corn, wheat, and tobacco being major contributors to the local economy.

The Civil War had a profound impact on Macon County. Like many areas in Missouri, the county was divided in its loyalties, and numerous skirmishes took place within its borders. The Battle of Compton's Ferry, fought on July 13, 1862, pitted Confederate forces against Union troops. Ultimately, the Union emerged victorious and maintained control over the county for the remainder of the war.

In the post-war era, Macon County continued to grow and develop. The 20th century brought advancements in transportation, education, and healthcare to the region. Highways were improved, allowing for easier travel and the growth of tourism. Today, Macon County maintains its agricultural heritage while also diversifying its economy with industries such as manufacturing and healthcare services. The county also boasts several historical sites, including the Macon County Courthouse, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Macon County, Missouri.

  • 1837 - Macon County officially established.
  • 1839 - First county courthouse built in Bloomington (now known as Macon).
  • 1841 - Railroads begin to be built, connecting Macon County with other cities.
  • 1872 - Construction of the Missouri State Hospital No. 3 begins in Macon County.
  • 1893 - The original courthouse is destroyed by a fire.
  • 1894 - A new courthouse is constructed to replace the one destroyed by fire.
  • 1921 - Completion of the Union Electric Railway, providing electric transportation in Macon County.
  • 1936 - The Chariton River is dammed to form Long Branch Lake.
  • 1978 - The Missouri State Hospital No. 3 is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2000 - The population of Macon County reaches its peak at over 16,000 residents.
  • 2018 - Macon County celebrates its 180th anniversary since its establishment.