National Register Listing

Harlin, John Conkin and Clara Layton, House

a.k.a. Uncle Johnny's; Old Harlin House

403 Harlin Dr., Gainesville, MO
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

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.

commerce politics government architecture houses residential buildings
The infamous outlaw Jesse James was born in Clay County, Missouri, in 1847. He later became known for his bank and train robberies and was killed by a member of his own gang in 1882.
Missouri random facts
Ozark County, Missouri, is located in the southern part of the state and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous Native American tribes, including the Osage and Delaware tribes. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to explore and settle in Ozark County, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant wildlife.

By the mid-1800s, Ozark County had become a thriving farming and logging community. The settlers established small towns and villages, and the region grew rapidly. In 1841, the county was officially established and named after the Ozark Mountain range that encompasses the area.

During the Civil War, Ozark County was deeply divided, with individuals and families taking different sides in the conflict. The county experienced numerous skirmishes and raids by both Union and Confederate forces, and the war left a lasting impact on the region. After the war, Ozark County slowly rebuilt its economy, relying mainly on agriculture, timber, and mining.

In the 20th century, tourism became an increasingly important industry in Ozark County. The area's natural attractions, including pristine rivers, caves, and scenic landscapes, drew visitors from near and far. Today, Ozark County continues to be a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike, with its charming small towns and fascinating historical sites preserving the area's unique heritage.

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

  • Early 1800s: Osage Native Americans inhabit the area that is now Ozark County.
  • 1821: The Missouri Territory officially becomes a state, and Ozark County is formed as part of the state.
  • 1837: The first permanent white settler, Jacob Sims, arrives in the area.
  • 1859: The County seat is established in Gainesville.
  • 1861-1865: Ozark County is deeply affected by the American Civil War, witnessing multiple battles and skirmishes.
  • 1872: The Missouri & North Arkansas Railroad is constructed, connecting Ozark County to the rest of the state.
  • 1886: Ozark County's courthouse, located in Gainesville, burns down and is rebuilt shortly after.
  • 1930s-1940s: The construction of the Bull Shoals Dam and the creation of Bull Shoals Lake provide economic opportunities for the region.
  • 1956: A tornado strikes Ozark County, causing significant damage to various communities.
  • 1978: The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which include parts of the county, are established, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • 2006: The Caney Mountain Conservation Area is opened, offering recreational activities such as hiking and hunting.