Building at 217 West Main Street
a.k.a. Open Door Service Center Building
217 W. Main St., Sedalia, MO Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
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 "Show-Me State" is Missouri's official nickname and is believed to have originated from a speech given by Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver in 1899. He said, "I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats, and frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I am from Missouri. You have got to show me."
In its early years, Pettis County saw significant growth due to its location along the Missouri-Kansas border and the presence of fertile land. The county became known for its agricultural industry, with many settlers engaging in farming and livestock raising. The introduction of the railroad in the mid-1800s further boosted the local economy, allowing for increased trade and transportation of goods.
During the American Civil War, Pettis County experienced its share of turmoil. It was a border county, and tensions ran high between Confederate and Union sympathizers. The county saw skirmishes, raids, and guerrilla warfare, as well as the occasional clash between opposing forces. After the war, the county focused on rebuilding and recovery.
In more recent years, the county has experienced industrial and commercial growth. The city of Sedalia, the county seat of Pettis County, became a hub for manufacturing and trade. The city's annual Missouri State Fair, established in 1901, has become a major attraction, drawing visitors from throughout the state and beyond. Today, Pettis County continues to thrive, balancing its rich history with a modern economy and strong community values.
Pettis County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Pettis County, Missouri.
- 1812: Pettis County, MO was established
- 1830s: First settlements were established by European Americans
- 1839: Smithton, the first town in the county, was founded
- 1848: The town of Georgetown was founded, later renamed Sedalia
- 1861-1865: Pettis County was affected by the American Civil War
- 1870: Sedalia was officially incorporated as a city
- 1873: The Missouri State Fair relocated to Sedalia
- 1894: Sedalia was struck by a disastrous fire
- 20th century: Pettis County experienced growth in agriculture and industrial sectors
- 1974: The National Register of Historic Places listed the Sedalia Commercial Historic District