National Register Listing

Unionville Square Historic District

Roughly along portions of Main, Grant., 16th and 17th Sts., Unionville, MO
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Commerce; Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of 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.
Missouri random facts
Putnam County, Missouri, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sac and Fox, Iowa, and Kickapoo, who relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance. European settlement began in the early 19th century, with immigration from states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.

In 1841, Putnam County was officially established and named after Israel Putnam, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The county quickly became an agricultural center, with corn and wheat being the primary crops. The construction of the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad in the 1850s provided a significant boost to the local economy, facilitating transportation and trade.

During the Civil War, Putnam County was predominantly pro-Union, with many residents enlisting in the Union Army. However, the county also experienced skirmishes and raids by Confederate soldiers, as it was located near the border between Union and Confederate territories. After the war, the county saw an influx of settlers and experienced economic growth with the expansion of farming and the arrival of new businesses.

In the 20th century, Putnam County faced its fair share of challenges. The Great Depression hit the area hard, leading to a decline in agricultural production and a loss of population. However, efforts to diversify the economy and attract industries helped the county recover, and today, Putnam County remains a predominantly rural area known for its scenic landscapes and friendly community.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Putnam County, Missouri.

  • 1821: Putnam County is established as a county in Missouri.
  • 1837: The town of Unionville is laid out as the county seat.
  • 1851: The Battle of Ash Hollow takes place during the Mormon War.
  • 1861: The American Civil War begins, and many Putnam County residents join the Union Army.
  • 1872: The Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad is completed through Putnam County.
  • 1925: The Missouri State Highway Department is created, improving transportation infrastructure in the county.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression affects Putnam County, leading to economic hardships.
  • 1967: The Unionville Dam and Lake is constructed, providing recreational opportunities for residents.
  • 1993: The Putnam County Historical Society is formed to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 2008: The Putnam County Courthouse, built in 1894, is restored to its original glory.