Historical Markers in
Pulaski County, Missouri

75th Infantry Division A Frigid Crossing A Resting Place for the Weary A Road Through History A Trail of Tragedy Devil's Elbow, Pulaski County, Missouri Discover a Hidden History James Richard Livingston Norma Lea's Frisco Park Old Stage Coach Stop Pulaski County Pulaski County Freedom Rock Veterans Memorial Rigsby House and Standard Oil Station Roubidoux Trail Talbot House The Trailblazers Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Waynesville Fort What is the Trail of Tears? "Elmer" "Grow With Us"
Missouri was admitted to the Union as the 24th state on August 10, 1821, becoming the first state entirely west of the Mississippi River.
Missouri random facts
Pulaski County, Missouri has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The county was named after Count Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman and American Revolutionary War hero. European settlement in the area began in the early 1800s, with the establishment of small farming communities and the construction of Fort Leonard Wood.

During the Civil War, Pulaski County played a significant role due to its strategic location along the important Osage and Gasconade Rivers. Both Confederate and Union forces occupied the area at different times, and the Battle of Waynesville took place in Pulaski County in 1862. The war had a lasting impact on the county, and numerous historical markers and memorials can be found throughout the region.

The early 20th century brought new opportunities for Pulaski County with the arrival of the Missouri Pacific Railroad. The railroad stimulated growth and development, and small towns like Waynesville and St. Robert began to flourish. The completion of Route 66, a famous highway that linked Chicago to Los Angeles, also brought increased tourism and economic activity to the area.

In more recent history, Pulaski County has been influenced by the presence of Fort Leonard Wood. The U.S. Army established the fort during World War II, and it has since become a major training center for soldiers from all branches of the military. The fort has had a significant impact on the local economy and continues to shape the county's identity to this day. Overall, Pulaski County's history is a blend of military influence, Civil War heritage, and growth driven by transportation and tourism.

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

  • 1833 - Pulaski County is established and named after Count Kazimierz Pulaski.
  • 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, Pulaski County becomes a strategic location for Union and Confederate forces.
  • 1869 - The railroad reaches Pulaski County, leading to increased economic development in the area.
  • 1903 - Fort Leonard Wood is established as a military training center.
  • 1941-1945 - Fort Leonard Wood plays a significant role in World War II as a training center for troops.
  • 1947 - The Big Piney River is dammed to create the Lake of the Ozarks, providing recreational opportunities for residents and tourists.
  • 1950s-1970s - Pulaski County experiences growth and development as a result of the military presence and increased tourism.
  • 1984 - The Old Stagecoach Stop in Waynesville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2010 - Pulaski County's population surpasses 50,000 residents.