National Register Listings in Henry County, Missouri
The state of Missouri was the birthplace of the ice cream cone. It was invented by a Syrian immigrant named Ernest Hamwi who was selling waffles at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. When an ice cream vendor ran out of dishes, Hamwi rolled up one of his waffles to hold the ice cream and the ice cream cone was born.
About Henry County
Henry County Timeline
Henry County, Missouri has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The land that is now Henry County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Kansas tribes. However, in the early 1800s, European settlers began to establish communities in the area. In 1834, Henry County was officially established and named after the American Revolutionary War patriot, Patrick Henry.
The county quickly flourished due to its fertile soil and access to waterways, attracting more settlers and creating prosperous farming communities. The arrival of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in the late 1860s further contributed to the county's growth, as it facilitated the transportation of goods and people. During the late 19th century and early 20th century, Henry County saw advancements in agriculture and industry, particularly in the production of corn, wheat, and soybeans.
Henry County also played a role in the Civil War. In 1861, the Battle of Miami, a skirmish between Confederate and Union forces, took place in the county. Additionally, during the war, the area served as a vital supply route for the Union Army. The county's historical significance is also reflected in the presence of landmarks such as the Battle of Island Mound Historic Site, which commemorates the first time African American soldiers fought in the Civil War.
Throughout the 20th century, Henry County continued to develop, with improvements in infrastructure and the growth of towns such as Clinton, the county seat. Today, Henry County remains primarily agricultural, with its economy centered around farming and agribusiness. The county's historical heritage is celebrated through various festivals, museums, and historical sites, providing visitors and residents alike with a glimpse into its fascinating past.
The county quickly flourished due to its fertile soil and access to waterways, attracting more settlers and creating prosperous farming communities. The arrival of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in the late 1860s further contributed to the county's growth, as it facilitated the transportation of goods and people. During the late 19th century and early 20th century, Henry County saw advancements in agriculture and industry, particularly in the production of corn, wheat, and soybeans.
Henry County also played a role in the Civil War. In 1861, the Battle of Miami, a skirmish between Confederate and Union forces, took place in the county. Additionally, during the war, the area served as a vital supply route for the Union Army. The county's historical significance is also reflected in the presence of landmarks such as the Battle of Island Mound Historic Site, which commemorates the first time African American soldiers fought in the Civil War.
Throughout the 20th century, Henry County continued to develop, with improvements in infrastructure and the growth of towns such as Clinton, the county seat. Today, Henry County remains primarily agricultural, with its economy centered around farming and agribusiness. The county's historical heritage is celebrated through various festivals, museums, and historical sites, providing visitors and residents alike with a glimpse into its fascinating past.
Henry County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Henry County, Missouri.
- 1834 - Henry County is formed and named after Patrick Henry, a Virginia lawyer, and orator
- 1835 - The first settlers, primarily from Kentucky and Tennessee, begin to arrive in the area
- 1837 - Clinton is established as the county seat
- 1846 - The first courthouse is built in Clinton
- 1861-1865 - Henry County is heavily affected by the Civil War, with skirmishes and battles taking place throughout the area
- 1871 - The Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad is constructed, providing transportation and economic growth
- 1886 - The Henry County Courthouse, a Romanesque-style building, is constructed
- 1922 - The famous Glenn Miller, an American jazz musician, is born in Clarinda, Iowa. He lived in Clinton, in Henry County, during his early years
- 1980 - The Harry S. Truman Reservoir is completed, providing flood control and recreational opportunities
- 2006 - Henry County celebrates its 172nd anniversary