National Register Listings in Bollinger County, Missouri
The Pony Express, a mail delivery service that operated from 1860 to 1861, had a route that went through Missouri. The service used a network of riders and relay stations to transport mail from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California, in just 10 days.
About Bollinger County
Bollinger County Timeline
Bollinger County, located in the southeastern part of Missouri, has a rich history that spans over two centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Chickasaw and Shawnee, before European settlers arrived. In the early 1800s, French and German immigrants made their way to the region, establishing small farming communities.
The county was officially organized in 1851 and named after George Frederick Bollinger, a prominent early settler and leader in the community. The area flourished due to its fertile land and natural resources. Agriculture, particularly the production of crops like corn, wheat, and tobacco, played a significant role in the county's economy. Additionally, the county is known for its extensive limestone deposits.
During the Civil War, Bollinger County saw its fair share of conflicts. It was predominantly supportive of the Union, but guerrilla warfare and raids from Confederate sympathizers caused turmoil. In 1863, Union forces established a military outpost at Fort Davidson in Pilot Knob, which played a crucial role in the defense against Confederate attacks.
In the 20th century, Bollinger County experienced modernization and growth, with improvements in infrastructure and technology. The arrival of the railroads and the development of mining industries, including lead and fluorspar mining, contributed to the local economy. Today, Bollinger County maintains its agricultural heritage, with a mix of small towns and rural communities that preserve the area's historical charm.
The county was officially organized in 1851 and named after George Frederick Bollinger, a prominent early settler and leader in the community. The area flourished due to its fertile land and natural resources. Agriculture, particularly the production of crops like corn, wheat, and tobacco, played a significant role in the county's economy. Additionally, the county is known for its extensive limestone deposits.
During the Civil War, Bollinger County saw its fair share of conflicts. It was predominantly supportive of the Union, but guerrilla warfare and raids from Confederate sympathizers caused turmoil. In 1863, Union forces established a military outpost at Fort Davidson in Pilot Knob, which played a crucial role in the defense against Confederate attacks.
In the 20th century, Bollinger County experienced modernization and growth, with improvements in infrastructure and technology. The arrival of the railroads and the development of mining industries, including lead and fluorspar mining, contributed to the local economy. Today, Bollinger County maintains its agricultural heritage, with a mix of small towns and rural communities that preserve the area's historical charm.
Bollinger County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bollinger County, Missouri.
- 1798 - Bollinger County established as one of the five original counties of the Missouri Territory
- 1800s - Early settlers, mostly of German descent, establish farming communities in the area
- 1820 - County seat established in Jackson, Missouri
- 1861-1865 - Bollinger County heavily affected by the American Civil War
- 1870s - Bollinger County experiences a population boom due to the expansion of the railroad
- 1937 - Union Electric opens a hydroelectric plant in Bollinger County, providing electricity to the region
- 1986 - Bollinger County Museum of Natural History established
- 2008 - Bollinger County celebrates its bicentennial