National Register Listing

Downing House

311 S. Main St., Memphis, MO
Local significance of the building:
Other; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

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.

other architecture houses residential buildings
The Missouri State Penitentiary, located in Jefferson City, was once the oldest operating prison west of the Mississippi River. It opened in 1836 and closed in 2004.
Missouri random facts
Scotland County, Missouri is located in the northeastern part of the state. It was first settled by European settlers in the early 1830s, primarily by Scottish immigrants, which is how the county got its name. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Sioux and the Sac and Fox nations. The land was acquired from Native American tribes through several treaties, including the Treaty of 1824 and the Treaty of Fort Leavenworth in 1830.

The county itself was established on January 29, 1841, and was carved out of territory from Clark County. The county seat was initially located in the town of Memphis and was later moved to the current location of Memphis in 1843. The county saw significant growth and development in the following years, with the construction of railroads and the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses.

During the Civil War, Scotland County experienced both Union and Confederate sympathies, with tensions running high. The Battle of Vassar Hill, which took place in 1862, resulted in a Union victory and helped solidify Union control over the county. After the Civil War, the county continued to grow, with agriculture becoming the mainstay of the local economy. Scotland County is known for its fertile land, which has allowed for the cultivation of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat.

In the 20th century, Scotland County faced various challenges, including the Great Depression and the rural-to-urban migration that affected many rural areas. However, the county has remained resilient and has adapted to changing times. Today, Scotland County is a close-knit community that values its agricultural heritage and is home to a diverse population.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Scotland County, Missouri.

  • 1813: Scotland County established as part of the Louisiana Territory.
  • 1829: First permanent settlements established in the area.
  • 1841: Scotland County officially organized and named after Scotland.
  • 1861-1865: Scotland County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1870: Railroad reaches Scotland County, leading to increased economic growth.
  • 1898: Scotland County experiences a population boom due to agricultural opportunities.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression negatively impacts the county's economy.
  • 1955: Construction of Mark Twain Lake begins, providing recreational opportunities.
  • 2000: Scotland County celebrates its 160th anniversary.