Rainey Funeral Home Building
a.k.a. Roller-Bruce Funeral Home, Barber-Barto Funeral Home; Barber-Edwards Funeral Home, Arthur's Colonial Chapel
242 E. Washington St., Marshfield, MO Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2014.
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 Missouri Ozarks region is home to the "Bald Knobbers", a vigilante group that formed in the 1880s to enforce the law in the area. They were named after the bald hilltops where they held their meetings and were known for wearing black hoods and using violence to maintain order.
The first European settlements in what is now Webster County began in the early 1800s, with pioneers establishing farms and communities. The county was officially organized in 1855 and named after statesman Daniel Webster. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought economic growth and development to the area, allowing for increased trade and transportation.
Webster County saw its share of hardships during the Civil War, with several skirmishes and battles occurring in the region. The county was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. This division left lasting scars on the community, but also helped shape its identity.
In the 20th century, Webster County experienced economic changes, transitioning from an agrarian society to a more industrialized one. The development of the highway system and the growth of nearby cities like Springfield further influenced the county's economy and demographics.
Today, Webster County is a mix of rural and urban areas, with a growing population and diversified economy. It is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community. The county continues to evolve while still preserving its historical heritage.
Webster County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Webster County, Missouri.
- 1833 - Webster County is established on March 3, one of the original five counties in southwest Missouri
- 1835 - Marshfield is established as the county seat
- 1861-1865 - Webster County residents serve in the Civil War on both sides of the conflict
- 1880 - The Frisco Railroad is completed, connecting Webster County to other parts of the state
- 1894 - The Webster County Courthouse is built in Marshfield, replacing an earlier wooden courthouse
- 1906 - The Marshfield Blue Jay Bird is officially adopted as Webster County's mascot
- 1925 - The Marshfield tornado, one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history, strikes the town and surrounding areas
- 1930s-1940s - Webster County experiences economic challenges during the Great Depression and World War II
- 1957 - The National Horseshoe Pitchers Association Hall of Fame is established in Marshfield
- 2007 - The Republic-Monitor newspaper celebrates its 100th anniversary of serving Webster County