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West Line, Missouri

West Line is a village in Cass County, Missouri. The population was 97 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area.

History
West Line was originally called State Line, and under the latter name was platted in 1870. The village was named from its position near the west boundary of the county and state. A post office called State Line was established in 1871, the name was changed to West Line in 1875, and the post office closed in 1973.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.45 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 97 people, 37 households, and 28 families living in the village. The population density was 215.6 PD/sqmi. There were 39 housing units at an average density of 86.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 99.0% White and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 37 households, of which 43.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 10.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 24.3% were non-families. 18.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.00.

The median age in the village was 43.3 years. 26.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.7% were from 25 to 44; 38.1% were from 45 to 64; and 9.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 51.5% male and 48.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 95 people, 35 households, and 28 families living in the village. The population density was 768.0 PD/sqmi. There were 37 housing units at an average density of 299.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 100.00% White.

There were 35 households, out of which 20.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.0% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.0% were non-families. 20.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 22.1% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 33.7% from 25 to 44, 18.9% from 45 to 64, and 15.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 115.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 117.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $46,250, and the median income for a family was $50,833. Males had a median income of $33,750 versus $20,625 for females. The per capita income for the village was $24,831. There were no families and 6.3% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

title: West Line, Missouri


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El Dorado Springs, Missouri

El Dorado Springs is the largest city in Cedar County, Missouri, United States. The population was 3,493 at the 2020 census.

Geography
El Dorado Springs is located at 37.87083°N, -94.02111°W (37.870872, -94.021024).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.09 sqmi, of which 3.08 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,593 people, 1,591 households, and 908 families residing in the city. The population density was 1166.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,918 housing units at an average density of 622.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.0% White, 0.8% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

There were 1,591 households, of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 38.5% were married couples living together, 14.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.9% were non-families. 38.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.89.

The median age in the city was 41.1 years. 23.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.2% were from 25 to 44; 24.5% were from 45 to 64; and 21.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.2% male and 53.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,775 people, 1,654 households, and 984 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,225.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,897 housing units at an average density of 615.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96% White, 0.4% African American, 1% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 1.1% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.1% of the population.

There were 1,654 households, out of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.1% were married couples living together, 11.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.5% were non-families. 36.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.86.

In the city the population was spread out, with 23.7% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 24.2% from 25 to 44, 19.3% from 45 to 64, and 24.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $20,789, and the median income for a family was $26,366. Males had a median income of $23,109 versus $15,197 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,575. About 18.7% of families and 24.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 42.7% of those under age 18 and 16.5% of those age 65 or over.

History
El Dorado Springs was founded in 1881, near a natural spring by brothers Nathaniel and Waldo Cruce who attempted to capitalize on the namesake's spring water. A post office has been in operation at El Dorado Springs since that year.

In the 1930s, El Dorado Springs was well known as a "Sundown Town".

Education
El Dorado Springs R-II School District operates one elementary school, one middle school and El Dorado Springs High School. The city also contains El Dorado Christian School, a private institution.

The town has a lending library, a branch of the Cedar County Library District.

Arts and culture
An annual tradition is the Founder's Day Picnic which began early in the town's existence as an annual gathering for residents. It is a three-night event which has grown to be the largest attraction of the year and brings thousands of visitors to town. In recent years, a carnival has provided rides and the City Council hires performers to give free concerts in the City Park. This upcoming picnic will be the city's 135th.

El Dorado Springs boasts Missouri's oldest municipal band performing in the United States at the longest continually used bandstand.

Media
The city has two newspapers: The Star and The Sun; along with local FM radio station KESM.

Notable people

 * Eugene McCown - jazz pianist and painter
 * Donald Dawson - major general, lawyer, and perhaps the first modern American political advance man

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: El Dorado Springs, Missouri


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Jerico Springs, Missouri

Jerico Springs is a village in Cedar County, Missouri, United States. The population was 160 at the 2020 census.

History
Jerico Springs was platted in 1882. Its name is derived from both the ancient city of Jericho and that of Joseph B. Carrico, the owner of the town site.

Geography
Jerico Springs is located in the southwestern corner of Cedar County on Missouri Route 97. Stockton Lake lies approximately ten miles to the east of the town. The area is within the Springfield Plateau region of the Ozarks.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.68 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 228 people, 87 households, and 56 families residing in the village. The population density was 335.3 PD/sqmi. There were 124 housing units at an average density of 182.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 96.5% White and 3.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

There were 87 households, of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.2% were married couples living together, 16.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.6% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.25.

The median age in the village was 36.5 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 11% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.6% were from 25 to 44; 26.2% were from 45 to 64; and 14.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 51.8% male and 48.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 259 people, 104 households, and 74 families residing in the village. The population density was 384.0 PD/sqmi. There were 130 housing units at an average density of 192.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.30% White, 0.77% Native American, 0.39% Asian, and 1.54% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.39% of the population.

There were 104 households, out of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.7% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.9% were non-families. 26.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 29.0% under the age of 18, 5.4% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 21.2% from 45 to 64, and 16.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.8 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $22,188, and the median income for a family was $30,750. Males had a median income of $30,625 versus $13,750 for females. The per capita income for the village was $11,094. About 8.0% of families and 12.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.3% of those under the age of 18 and 25.8% of those 65 or over.

title: Jerico Springs, Missouri


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Stockton, Missouri

Stockton is a city in Cedar County, Missouri, United States. The population was 1,683 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Cedar County.

History
Stockton was platted in 1846. It was originally named Lancaster, but was renamed Fremont in 1847 in honor of John C. Frémont. In 1857 it was renamed again, in honor of Robert F. Stockton.

The Stockton Community Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.14 sqmi, of which 2.10 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi is water.

The town lies just west of the Stockton Lake dam, approximately 40 mi northwest of Springfield.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,819 people, 774 households, and 470 families living in the city. The population density was 866.2 PD/sqmi. There were 949 housing units at an average density of 451.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.0% White, 0.1% African American, 0.8% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.1% from other races, and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 774 households, of which 30.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.9% were married couples living together, 12.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.3% were non-families. 35.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.92.

The median age in the city was 43.7 years. 24.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20% were from 25 to 44; 22.9% were from 45 to 64; and 25.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.4% male and 53.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,960 people, 814 households, and 473 families living in the city. The population density was 921.7 PD/sqmi. There were 968 housing units at an average density of 455.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.66% White, 0.41% African American, 0.51% Native American, 1.12% Asian, 0.51% from other races, and 1.79% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.94% of the population.

There were 814 households, out of which 25.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.8% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.8% were non-families. 38.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.85.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 27.5% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 20.7% from 25 to 44, 18.7% from 45 to 64, and 26.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 77.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,353, and the median income for a family was $34,427. Males had a median income of $22,574 versus $19,688 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,540. About 7.0% of families and 14.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.0% of those under age 18 and 10.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Stockton R-I School District operates one elementary school, one middle school and Stockton High School.

The town has a lending library, a branch of the Cedar County Library District.

Notable person

 * Emil Liston (1890–1949), basketball coach and administrator, member of the Basketball Hall of Fame.

title: Stockton, Missouri


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Umber View Heights, Missouri

Umber View Heights is a village in Cedar County, Missouri, United States. The population was 41 at the 2020 census.

The name Umber is derived from one Mr. Umber, the proprietor of an early-20th-century country store.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.06 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 48 people, 25 households, and 16 families residing in the village. The population density was 800.0 PD/sqmi. There were 30 housing units at an average density of 500.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.9% White and 2.1% from two or more races.

There were 25 households, of which 16.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.0% were married couples living together, 8.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.0% were non-families. 32.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.92 and the average family size was 2.38.

The median age in the village was 54 years. 14.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.6% were from 25 to 44; 39.6% were from 45 to 64; and 31.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 45.8% male and 54.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 52 people, 25 households, and 18 families residing in the village. The population density was 768.0 PD/sqmi. There were 29 housing units at an average density of 428.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.08% White, 1.92% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.92% of the population.

There were 25 households, out of which 16.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 72.0% were married couples living together, and 28.0% were non-families. 24.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.08 and the average family size was 2.39.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 15.4% under the age of 18, 23.1% from 25 to 44, 25.0% from 45 to 64, and 36.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 54 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 109.5 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $36,563, and the median income for a family was $41,250. Males had a median income of $22,917 versus $24,375 for females. The per capita income for the village was $18,050. There were 6.3% of families and 10.9% of the population living below the poverty line, including 20.0% of those under 18 and none of those over 64.

title: Umber View Heights, Missouri


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Brunswick, Missouri

Brunswick is a city in Chariton County, Missouri, United States. Its population was 801 at the 2020 census. Brunswick, by official state proclamation, is the Pecan Capital of Missouri. The Missouri Farmers Association (MFA Incorporated) was founded in Brunswick in 1914.

History
For thousands of years varying cultures of indigenous peoples settled by the Missouri River. At the time of European contact, historical tribes in the area included the Missouri, Osage, Kaw, Otoe and others. In 1723 Etienne de Veniard, Sieur de Bourgmont built Fort Orleans near here, established on the Missouri River near the mouth of the Grand River. It was occupied 1723-1726 as the first multi-year European fort and settlement in present-day Missouri. It was to be a trading centerpiece of La Louisiane, the new territory claimed by the French.

Following the Louisiana Purchase and the end of the French colonial period the area saw a large influx of immigrants from the U.S., especially Kentucky and Tennessee. They brought African-American slaves and slaveholding traditions with them. The new land owners planted and cultivate crops similar to those in the Upper South: hemp and tobacco. Chariton was one of several counties along the Missouri River to become known as Little Dixie.

The original town of Brunswick was laid out in 1836 by James Keyte. Keyte, an English immigrant and Methodist minister, was also the founder of Keytesville, Missouri, the county seat of Chariton County. It was named after Brunswick, in England. The original town plat was about 500 yards (457 meters) south of its current location, but due to changes in the Missouri and Grand rivers, the location is now underwater. A Mr. Keyte established the first store in the town, and its first industry, a sawmill. Early growth was slow for the community, with the population estimated at around 125 citizens by 1840. However, in the early 1840s a large influx of new residents increased the size of the town and scope of business offerings. They included a hotel, a wagon maker, brick factory, and a pork packing facility. Doctor Edwin Price, brother of famed Confederate general Sterling Price, was an early settler. In the decades leading up to the American Civil War surrounding counties had no railroad over which to ship or receive goods and crops, thus Brunswick with its steamboat access, became a regional trading center. In 1849 Brunswick recorded 534 arrivals and departures by steamboats. The first school was established at Brunswick in June 1840 with approximately thirty-five students and a one-room log schoolhouse. It was also in 1840 that the first wave of German immigrants arrived in the Brunswick area. Another influx of Germans took place in 1842. The Brunswicker, the town's first newspaper, began publication in October 1847 and continues today, making it one of the state's oldest. Brunswick's first bank, a branch of the Merchants Bank of St. Louis, opened.

After the Civil War and the loss of their slaves, farmers shifted to other less labor-intensive, crops. However, in 1880 Chariton County still led the state of Missouri in tobacco production, with 14 million pounds harvested. After nearly ten years of delay due to the war, the railroad finally reached Brunswick in 1867, reducing the reliance on steamboats to transport goods and people.

Dr. W.W. Bowen established the Brunswick Institute of Pharmacy in 1910. The school would train more than 5,000 pharmacists and druggists before closing in 1937. In 1914, farmers organized the Missouri Farmers Association (MFA), a cooperative, based in Brunswick. It has since moved to Columbia, Missouri. Brunswick saw a growth of industry through the mid-20th century, with the construction of an alfalfa-drying plant constructed in 1939, the Chariton Electric Company in 1958, in 1965 the opening of the Tuloma Fertilizer blending plant, and in 1970 a glove factory. Also in 1965 the U.S. Coast Guard built a small base near Brunswick to service increased river traffic; however, the facility was relatively short-lived, closing in March 1973.

Following World War II, Brunswick became the center of an area of pecan groves. In 1972 State Representative Creason secured a state resolution naming Brunswick the Pecan Capital of Missouri. The Brunswick Pecan Festival was first held in 1980, celebrating the large number of pecans being harvested in the area. It would become an annual tradition that is held each October. The world's largest 20th-century pecan—a concrete replica—is located along Highway 24 in downtown Brunswick. It measures seven by twelve feet and weighs twelve thousand pounds. It was constructed in 1982 by George James in honor of the Starking Hardy Giant pecan, which he discovered on his property in 1947.

Locust Hill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Education
Schools in the Brunswick area date back to 1840, when a small one-room log "subscription" or private school was constructed. Following the Civil War, attention turned more toward public education, with the first public school opening in the town circa 1868. A large three-story brick school was constructed in 1871 and served the community well into the early 20th century, being replaced by a new school in 1930–31. The present junior high / high school building used by Brunswick R-II school district was constructed in 1956–57. The most recent addition to the facilities is a new grade school constructed in 1991–1992. In 1949 Missouri reorganized public education, with the state board of education consolidating or reorganizing many small rural schools into larger districts, this gave birth to the aforementioned Brunswick R-II district. The district, in student count, is the second largest in Chariton County, trailing Salisbury schools. Enrollment in all grades from 2006 to 2010 averaged 250 students. The school colors are red and black. Their mascot is the Wildcat. Brunswick R-II participates in sports and other activities as a Class 1A school under guidelines from the Missouri State High School Activities Association.

The town has a lending library, the Brunswick Area Public Library.

Notable people

 * Darold Knowles—Former MLB relief pitcher. First pitcher to ever appear in all seven games of a World Series. The baseball field at Brunswick R-II school is named in his honor.
 * Wayne E. Meyer—U.S. Navy admiral, "Father of the Aegis weapons system".
 * W. James Morgan—Union Army officer, responsible for the Burning of Platte City during the American Civil War.
 * Sol Smith Russell—Comic stage actor of the late 19th century. Russell Opera House in Brunswick is named for him.
 * Wilbur Sweatman -- Ragtime and Dixieland jazz composer and performer.

Geography
Brunswick is located at 39.42361°N, -93.12889°W (39.423563, -93.128819).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.25 sqmi, of which 1.20 sqmi is land and 0.05 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 858 people, 379 households, and 223 families residing in the city. The population density was 715.0 PD/sqmi. There were 491 housing units at an average density of 409.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 88.8% White, 9.1% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.1% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.2% of the population.

There were 379 households, of which 25.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.1% were married couples living together, 14.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.2% were non-families. 37.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 2.77.

The median age in the city was 47.7 years. 22.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.9% were from 25 to 44; 25.2% were from 45 to 64; and 27.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 925 people, 426 households, and 242 families residing in the city. The population density was 776.8 PD/sqmi. There were 536 housing units at an average density of 450.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 86.16% White, 13.30% African American, 0.32% from other races, and 0.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.86% of the population.

There were 426 households, out of which 20.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.6% were married couples living together, 9.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 43.0% were non-families. 39.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 26.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.09 and the average family size was 2.74.

In the city the population was spread out, with 21.2% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 22.3% from 45 to 64, and 27.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 82.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,969, and the median income for a family was $34,107. Males had a median income of $27,639 versus $18,182 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,516. About 11.3% of families and 17.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.9% of those under age 18 and 19.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Brunswick, Missouri


text:
Dalton, Missouri

Dalton is a village in Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 7 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Dalton is located at 39.39722°N, -92.99111°W (39.397130, -92.991248).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.18 sqmi, all land.

History of Dalton
Lewis and Clark made camp at what would later be known as the Cut-Off on June 12, 1804, and it was here that the expedition met with Pierre Dorion, a man who had reportedly been with the Sioux for 20 years and was thought to have some influence upon them. The Lewis and Clark journal entry describes the Dalton Cut-Off as connected to the Missouri River by a creek.

More than sixty years after the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area—after the end of the Civil War—the village of Dalton was born when the railroad created a need for it. The village was named for William Dalton, who had donated the 40 acre and a railroad depot was built for the St. Louis & Pacific line. [note: William Dalton was believed to be the grandfather of Missouri's sitting governor at the time the village was named, but the contributor has not yet found sources to support that claim.]

Dalton Vocational School
Dalton is best known as the site of the Dalton Vocational School, originally the Barlett Agricultural and Industrial School, also referred to as the "Tuskegee of the Midwest" or "Missouri Tuskegee". It was founded in 1907 by Nathaniel Bruce, a student and disciple of Booker T. Washington. The first permanent building was erected in 1909 after flooding forced a move to higher ground. In 1923, the school received funds from the state legislature to construct a model farm home, trade shop, and hog and poultry houses. Eventually the campus would expand to 123 acre. Bruce shared Washington's view that a practical education for African American youth was best. The emphasis was on vocational and agricultural training. African American students from a relatively wide geographical area were bussed to Dalton where they studied agriculture, industrial arts, and home economics.

The demonstration farm and school came under the supervision of the University of Missouri College of Agriculture in 1924. Eventually Lincoln University, a then all-Black college in Jefferson City, took control of the school. The Supreme Court's 1954 ruling that schools were to be integrated forced the closing of Dalton Vocational School; the last school year was 1955–1956. Buildings and property were later sold at auction. The campus has sat empty since that time and all but two of the buildings are gone.

Recent
Large portions of the 1973 Tom Sawyer film were filmed at the Dalton Cut-Off, especially footage that featured shots of Tom and Huck's adventures on the Missouri River.

In 1979, Dalton resident Rod Skillman was a walk-on for the Missouri football team at defensive tackle and later played professionally for the New Jersey Generals ('83–'84) and Hamilton Tiger-Cats ('84–'92).

As for the village of Dalton today, the decline of the rural economy and flooding have taken their toll. The 1993 flood reduced Dalton to a grain elevator, a post office, two churches, a community center and a few houses. But the small community still celebrates its heritage with the annual Dalton Days festival.

Today, the Dalton Cut-Off is part of what waterfowl enthusiasts call the "Golden Triangle" because it winters an exceptionally large number of birds.

Dalton Vocational School Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 17 people, 9 households, and 6 families living in the village. The population density was 94.4 PD/sqmi. There were 18 housing units at an average density of 100.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 70.6% White and 29.4% African American.

There were 9 households, of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.6% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.3% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.89 and the average family size was 2.17.

The median age in the village was 63.2 years. 11.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 5.9% were from 25 to 44; 47% were from 45 to 64; and 35.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 58.8% male and 41.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 27 people, 12 households, and 9 families living in the town. The population density was 152.5 PD/sqmi. There were 24 housing units at an average density of 135.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 55.56% White and 44.44% African American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 11.11% of the population.

There were 12 households, out of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.7% were married couples living together, 33.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.0% were non-families. 25.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.56.

In the town the population was spread out, with 18.5% under the age of 18, 14.8% from 25 to 44, 33.3% from 45 to 64, and 33.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 54 years. For every 100 females, there were 58.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 46.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $42,500, and the median income for a family was $42,500. Males had a median income of $0 versus $11,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,492. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

title: Dalton, Missouri


text:
Keytesville, Missouri

Keytesville is a city in and the county seat of Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 440 as of the 2020 census. Keytesville is the hometown of U.S. Army General Maxwell D. Taylor, who commanded the "Screaming Eagles" 101st Airborne division during the Normandy invasion of World War II. Confederate General Sterling Price, who attacked Keytesville during an unsuccessful cavalry raid across his home state, had previously operated a hotel there.

History
The town is named for James Keyte, an Englishman and Methodist preacher who purchased a large parcel of land in 1830 and, two years later, donated fifty acres of it to Chariton County to establish a seat of county government. Until then, county business had been conducted from "Old Chariton," a village near the confluence of the Chariton and Missouri Rivers that was plagued by disease-spreading mosquitoes and subject to repeated flooding.

James Keyte constructed the first home in Keytesville, and the first business as well. Both were log structures, with the second doubling as a post office. Keyte also created the town's first industry when he constructed a mill near his home on Mussel Fork Creek.

The first courthouse was constructed in Keytesville between 1833 and 1834. As a two-story, four-room brick building, it survived until September 20, 1864, when it was burned down by Confederate raiders during the American Civil War.

Isaac Redding added Keytesville's first hotel in August 1842.

Keytesville was incorporated on February 3, 1868, by the state of Missouri, and incorporated as a Missouri 4th-class city in March 1883.

Confederate raid
On September 20, 1864, Confederate General Samuel Price arrived on the outskirts of Keytesville with a force of 250 men, among them George Todd and other members of Quantrill's Raiders under the command of Major John Thrailkill. This action was part of Price's 1864 campaign that extended across the state from eastern Missouri to the Kansas City area. When Thrailkill's force arrived, Keytesville was defended by a small Union detachment of 35 men from the Missouri militia, commanded by Lieutenant Anthony Pleyer. Many local residents were sympathetic to the Confederate cause. Early on the morning of September 20, under a flag of truce, Thrailkill demanded the surrender of the Union troops, promising fair treatment. Unable to persuade his men to fight, Pleyer surrendered. Price paroled the Union garrison, and six men promptly joined his force. Confederate forces then briefly occupied the town, commandeering supplies from various merchants, burning down the courthouse, and executing Chariton County sheriff Robert Carmon and William Young, a Union scout and alleged spy.

Late 19th century
In February 1866, a contract was awarded for construction of a replacement courthouse, a two-story brick building with cupola. Built at a cost of $40,000, it would serve the county until it was destroyed by fire on August 27, 1973. By the mid-1890s, Keytesville had an estimated population of about 1,100 citizens and two newspapers, the Chariton Courier and Keytesville Signal. Businesses included the Keytesville Roller Mill, a large water-powered grist mill on Mussel Fork Creek; two banks; a building and loan association; two hotels; a distillery; general mercantiles; and restaurants. Because of the town's location 1.5 mi north of the Wabash Railroad line, Keytesville merchants encouraged the construction, in 1889, of a streetcar line. Hugo Bartz and J. J. Moore, secured land and financing for the project, which when completed consisted of two miles of track and a large barn for horses and rolling stock, constructed for a cost of $10,000. Two horse-drawn passenger coaches and a large flatcar for freight delivered new arrivals at the Wabash depot to the town.

Keytesville today
The town has a business district, a public library, and chamber of commerce, swimming pool, insurance sales, bank, convenience store, law offices, chiropractor, restaurant, auto repair, agricultural services and medical clinic. The town has various service clubs and organizations, including the Lions Club. There are three sites in Keytesville listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the First Presbyterian Church, the Chariton County Jail and Sheriff's Residence, and the Redding-Hill House. Price Park has a statue of Sterling Price sculpted by Allen George Newman. A new Chariton County Courthouse was constructed in Keytesville in the summer of 1974 and occupied the following July.

Government
Keytesville, a Missouri 4th-class city, governs by a mayor-council system. Voters elect two aldermen from two wards, each serving a two-year term, and a mayor at-large, also for a two-year term. The Keytesville Fire District, a volunteer force, provides fire protection for the town and surrounding rural area. law enforcement duties are handled by the Chariton County Sheriff's Department. The department headquarters and county jail are located in Keytesville. The city of Keytesville operates two parks. One of the parks provides camping with full hookup available.

Education
Keytesville R-III School district serves the town of Keytesville and surrounding rural area. Education in the community dates to before the Civil War, but records indicating the exact date were lost in an 1861 fire at the county clerk's office. In 1889, what might be considered the first modern-style school, a large 2-story building, was erected at a cost of $13,000. By 1909, Keytesville school was rated a first-class school by the state of Missouri. In 1949, a large number of the rural schools were combined with Keytesville to form the current district. The current high school was constructed in 1959, with the current elementary school added in 1967. In 2010, the district had a total of 153 students K-12, and a graduation rate of 90-percent. The school mascot is the Tiger and school colors are black and gold. Keytesville competes athletically in the Carroll-Livingston Activities Association. Its enrollment places the Tigers in Class 1 under Missouri State High School Activities Association guidelines.

Geography
Keytesville is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 24 and Missouri Route 5. It is 10 mi east of Brunswick and 30 mi west of Moberly.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.78 sqmi, of which 0.77 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 471 people, 225 households, and 124 families residing in the city. The population density was 611.7 PD/sqmi. There were 275 housing units at an average density of 357.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.5% White, 0.6% African American, 0.4% Native American, and 0.4% Asian.

There were 225 households, of which 20.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.2% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 44.9% were non-families. 40.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.07 and the average family size was 2.71.

The median age in the city was 46.4 years. 17.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.2% were from 25 to 44; 31.5% were from 45 to 64; and 21% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.7% male and 50.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 533 people, 253 households, and 129 families residing in the city. The population density was 764.8 PD/sqmi. There were 295 housing units at an average density of 423.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.31% White, 3.94% African American, 0.19% from other races, and 0.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.19% of the population.

There were 253 households, out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.7% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 49.0% were non-families. 45.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 27.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.07 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.8% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 26.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,000, and the median income for a family was $35,568. Males had a median income of $25,156 versus $16,071 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,699. About 10.9% of families and 16.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.4% of those under age 18 and 17.0% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people from Keytesville

 * Jane Hadley Barkley, wife of U.S. vice president Alben Barkley
 * Cal Hubbard, member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame, NFL Top 100, and National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
 * Sterling Price, Missouri governor and Confederate general
 * Lyda Southard, serial killer
 * Maxwell D. Taylor, U.S. Army general and diplomat

title: Keytesville, Missouri


text:
Mendon, Missouri

Mendon is a city in western Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 163 at the 2020 census.

History
Mendon was laid out in 1871 by Christopher Shupe. However, the area had previously had some homes, and businesses were in operation in the area several years prior to the town plat actually being filed. Among the earliest was a general store built around 1865 by Mr. Bostich and Mr. Eastman. In 1867, Jeremiah Andrews Felt, of Quincy, Adams County, Illinois, sent his twin sons, William Winsor Felt and Winslow Leach Felt, aged 22, with their 16-year-old brother George Washington Felt, to establish farms to the northwest of where the town would be laid out four years later. George went to Iowa and the twins acquired 320 acres from the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad, and were named as "farmers and stock-raisers being among the first settlers of the area.”

Winslow Leach, his wife Annetta Brown, and son Arthur Stanley died, and Charles Davis Felt, the youngest of the Felt brothers, came from Illinois to settle in 1880. He married Lydia McCarl, and they raised a son, Chester Arthur, and daughter, Adriana Francis. After the town moved, the family sold portions of its land upon which the high school was built.

With the coming of the Chicago, Santa Fe and California Railroad in the 1880s, the citizens of Mendon were faced with a monumental choice. The rail line was projected to pass by, over a mile away. Thus when the railroad tracks were laid in 1887 and 1888, a new Mendon was created at the current site, and the former location was mostly abandoned.

By 1899 the community contained over 20 stores, a school, a bank, and two hotels. A newspaper, the Mendon Citizen, was first published in 1886. The estimated population in the late 1890s was 350 residents.

On June 27, 2022, Amtrak's Southwest Chief derailed nearly a mile southwest of Mendon, after hitting a dump truck.

Today
Although the Santa Fe railroad still passes through regularly, little remains of Mendon's business community.

Education for the town and surrounding rural area is provided by Northwestern High School. The school's athletic and academic teams compete in Missouri Class 1, the smallest of all classifications.

Mendon's proximity to the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge has proven a source of income for the community, with business catering to waterfowl hunters who come to the region.

Geography
Mendon is located in western Chariton County on Missouri Route 11. Yellow Creek flows past the northwest side of the town and the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is two miles west. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad line passes the northwest side of the community. This line is now owned by the BNSF Railway as the Southern Transcon. The Amtrak Southwest Chief passes through without stopping.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.18 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 171 people, 81 households, and 48 families living in the city. The population density was 950.0 PD/sqmi. There were 104 housing units at an average density of 577.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.8% White and 1.2% African American.

There were 81 households, of which 23.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.1% were married couples living together, 4.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.7% were non-families. 35.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.73.

The median age in the city was 40.5 years. 21.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.5% were from 25 to 44; 19.9% were from 45 to 64; and 25.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.2% male and 53.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 208 people, 92 households, and 57 families living in the city. The population density was 1,171.6 PD/sqmi. There were 115 housing units at an average density of 647.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.08% White, 0.48% Native American, and 1.44% from two or more races.

There were 92 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.4% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.0% were non-families. 35.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 3.00. There are an average of 7.4 dogs per capita in this city and they are free to run wild around the town.

In the city the population was spread out, with 25.0% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 26.0% from 25 to 44, 23.6% from 45 to 64, and 16.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,875, and the median income for a family was $33,281. Males had a median income of $32,969 versus $15,417 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,537. About 6.3% of families and 7.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.3% of those under the age of eighteen and 7.1% of those 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Mendon is the hometown of former MLB pitcher Vern Kennedy, who is buried at Old Mendon Cemetery.

title: Mendon, Missouri


text:
Rothville, Missouri

Rothville is a village in northern Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 63 at the 2020 census.

History
Rothville was laid out in 1883. The community derives its name from John Roth, a local merchant. A post office was established at Rothville in 1868.

Famed writer Laura Ingalls-Wilder lived for a short time (1868-1869) on land within the town's borders.

Geography
Rothville is located on Missouri Route E ten miles east of Sumner, six miles northeast of Mendon and six miles southwest of Marceline. East and West Yellow Creeks merge to form Yellow Creek just east of the community. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad line passes the southeast side of the community.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.20 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 99 people, 37 households, and 29 families living in the village. The population density was 495.0 PD/sqmi. There were 47 housing units at an average density of 235.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 99.0% White and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.0% of the population.

There were 37 households, of which 43.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.5% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 21.6% were non-families. 21.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.10.

The median age in the village was 33.2 years. 31.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 0.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 35.4% were from 25 to 44; 27.4% were from 45 to 64; and 6.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 50.5% male and 49.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 93 people, 39 households, and 23 families living in the village. The population density was 370.3 PD/sqmi. There were 48 housing units at an average density of 191.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 98.92% White, and 1.08% from two or more races.

There were 39 households, out of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.7% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.5% were non-families. 35.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 3.13.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 34.4% from 25 to 44, 16.1% from 45 to 64, and 16.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $26,786, and the median income for a family was $27,917. Males had a median income of $26,563 versus $18,125 for females. The per capita income for the village was $10,226. There were 7.4% of families and 10.8% of the population living below the poverty line, including 14.3% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

title: Rothville, Missouri


text:
Salisbury, Missouri

Salisbury is a city in Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 1,563 at the 2020 census.

History
The land where Salisbury is now located was first owned by Prier Bibo, a veteran of the War of 1812. In 1819, a tract of 360 acres was granted to Bibo by the U.S. government as a bonus for his military service. Following two intermediate owners, the land was sold for $400 to Judge Lucius Salisbury in 1856. He had surveyors lay out the town plat in 1857, and the town was founded on April 1, 1867.

Salisbury has had a post office since 1863, when Judge Salisbury opened it in his home. He also ran the stagecoach stop from his business, known as "Stop-A-While."

By the 1870 U.S. Census, Salisbury's population was 626. Just two years later, the town was struck by a large tornado. Major fires damaged much of the business district in 1877 and again in 1882. On April 4, 1882, Salisbury was organized and chartered as a fourth-class city under Missouri laws.

Early businesses included two hotels, a flour mill, three tobacco factories, three manufacturers of agricultural equipment and some forty other assorted merchants in the latter 19th century. Residents could visit the Salisbury Opera House, where the town's location on the Wabash rail line came into play, conveniently bringing in notable performers of the time. A published 1896 history of Chariton County lists among the community's businesses and amenities two newspapers, six physicians, a soda-pop factory, cigar factory, and a city-owned power plant for electricity.

The Salisbury Square Historic District and Frabrishous and Sarah A. Thomas House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Government
Salisbury is governed by a mayor-council form of government and is a 4th class city under Missouri classification. City council meetings are held the second Thursday of each month. In 2008 Salisbury's downtown area underwent major sidewalk and road work, with replica early 20th-century-style streetlights installed. Fire protection is provided by the Salisbury Fire Department, a volunteer-based organization. A paid police department provides law enforcement services.

Education
The Salisbury R-IV school district provides K-12 education to the town of Salisbury and a portion of surrounding Chariton County. A major renovation and expansion project in 2010 and 2011 added more class space to the facility. Along with classrooms, construction of a tornado-safe multipurpose area including a new gymnasium is ongoing. Athletic teams from Salisbury High School have won multiple Missouri state championships: 1997 Class 1A football, 2001 and 2002 Class 2A softball, 2004 Class 1A boys' golf, 2012 Class 1A girls' cross county, and 2012–2013 Class 2A boys' basketball.

The first school in Salisbury opened in April 1867, with 108 students. A fire in 1888 destroyed the first school building and it was replaced by a much larger two-story brick structure. In addition to the public school, Salisbury Academy, opened in 1888, provided for higher education at what today would be considered a junior college level. North Missouri Institute, another college-preparatory school, opened in 1891.

Salisbury has a public library, the Dulany Memorial Library.

Geography
Salisbury is located at the intersection of US Route 24 and Missouri Route 129. Keytesville is approximately seven miles to the west and Clifton Hill is about seven miles to the east in adjacent Randolph County along Route 24. The Middle Fork of the Little Chariton River flows past the southeast side of the city.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.33 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,618 people, 698 households, and 431 families residing in the city. The population density was 1216.5 /mi2. There were 830 housing units at an average density of 624.1 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 96.3% White, 2.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.2% of the population.

There were 698 households, of which 32.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.1% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.3% were non-families. 34.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the city was 40.2 years. 25.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.8% were from 25 to 44; 25.7% were from 45 to 64; and 19.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.9% male and 53.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,726 people, 744 households, and 474 families residing in the city. The population density was 493.6 /mi2. There were 847 housing units at an average density of 242.2 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 94.84% White, 4.23% African American, 0.17% Native American, 0.17% Asian, 0.06% from other races, and 0.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.58% of the population.

There were 744 households, out of which 29.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.2% were non-families. 34.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.2% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 24.9% from 25 to 44, 21.6% from 45 to 64, and 22.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,729, and the median income for a family was $41,389. Males had a median income of $28,988 versus $19,185 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,163. About 7.1% of families and 10.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.4% of those under age 18 and 9.9% of those age 65 or over.

Notable person

 * Floyd B. Parks, U.S. Marine aviator who earned the Navy Cross posthumously for his actions leading Marine fighter squadron VMF-221 during the Battle of Midway; the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Floyd B. Parks was named in his honor.

Attractions and events

 * Salisbury City Park features a playground, horse arena, tennis court, ball field, and picnic area. The city swimming pool is located across the street.
 * James C. Philpotts Park, located just south of the city, provides multiple recreation opportunities such as a 9-hole public golf course, playgrounds, walking trails and a small lake. The park also provides a 10-unit campground with electricity, water and sewer services available.
 * Two lakes just outside the city limits, Sterling Price Lake and Lake Nehai Tonkayea, provide fishing and boating opportunities.
 * Salisbury Steak Festival is held each June, with various games, local entertainment, and a community steak supper.

title: Salisbury, Missouri


text:
Sumner, Missouri

Sumner is a city in Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 78 at the 2020 census. It was named in honor of U.S. Senator Charles Sumner.

History
The area along the Grand River in the northwest corner of present-day Chariton County was first explored by two sons of Daniel Boone and Thomas Stanley prior to Missouri statehood in 1821. Stanley established a trading post some time later near what would eventually become Sumner. Other than the trading post not much existed in the area for several years, partly due to marshlands and flooding on the Grand River. The area around Sumner was originally known as Crossland, and about one mile away was the much larger village of Cunningham. However the coming of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad to the community combined with the Wabash railroad's decision to move their depot from Cunningham to Sumner gave the latter the upper hand in growth. Sumner was laid out by Joel H. Wilkerson in June, 1882. That fall the first home was constructed in the new village by J.M. Vanes, soon followed by the Commercial Hotel. A newspaper, the Sumner Star, was established in 1890 and operated for several years. Once teeming with wildlife such as prairie chicken, turkey, duck, and deer in the 1800s, the population of such was drastically reduced by over hunting and draining of the native wetlands, notably Hog Lake in 1911. In 1937 concerned over wetland preservation in the wake of the Dust Bowl, the U.S. Congress established the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge just to the south of Sumner. Roads, buildings and man-made wetlands were soon created by the Civilian Conservation Corps and by 1941 eight hundred geese wintered in the area.

Located on a migratory flyway, Swan Lake and the Sumner area began to attract ever larger numbers of geese in the mid and late 20th century, reaching 100,000 or more by the 1980s and 1990s. This also led to a yearly influx of hunters, benefiting the few Sumner businesses and Chariton County as a whole. With these numbers in mind Sumner was proclaimed the "Wild Goose Capital of the World". Sumner also began to hold a yearly Goose Festival in 1955 and it continues each October, with a variety of activities held including live music, a queen contest, food and a parade. Sumner residents commissioned a Kansas City sculptor in 1976 to create a large statue to honor the community's status and reputation for waterfowl hunting. What resulted was the "Worlds Largest Goose". Named "Maxie", the fiberglass and metal structure stands over forty feet tall with a wingspan of sixty-five feet and a total weight of over 5,000 pounds.

Geography
Sumner is located at 39.65639°N, -93.24333°W (39.656342, -93.243426).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.23 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 102 people, 52 households, and 26 families residing in the city. The population density was 443.5 PD/sqmi. There were 87 housing units at an average density of 378.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 52 households, of which 19.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 28.8% were married couples living together, 11.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 9.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 50.0% were non-families. 46.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.96 and the average family size was 2.77.

The median age in the city was 49 years. 20.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.6% were from 25 to 44; 28.4% were from 45 to 64; and 26.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 52.9% male and 47.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 142 people, 66 households, and 34 families residing in the town. The population density was 549.7 PD/sqmi. There were 99 housing units at an average density of 383.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.18% White, 0.70% African American, 0.70% Native American, and 1.41% from two or more races.

There were 66 households, out of which 22.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.9% were married couples living together, 7.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 47.0% were non-families. 42.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the town the population was spread out, with 23.2% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 24.6% from 45 to 64, and 22.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 77.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $14,792, and the median income for a family was $23,750. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $14,583 for females. The per capita income for the town was $21,025. There were 30.0% of families and 32.5% of the population living below the poverty line, including 51.6% of under eighteens and 13.5% of those over 64.

Notable person

 * Senator J. William Fulbright was born in Sumner on April 9, 1905.

title: Sumner, Missouri


text:
Triplett, Missouri

Triplett is a city in Chariton County, Missouri, United States. The population was 33 at the 2020 census.

History
Triplett was founded in 1870 when the railroad was extended to that point. The community was named after J. E. M. Triplett, a first settler. A post office called Triplett was established in 1875, and remained in operation until 2001.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.23 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 41 people, 21 households, and 10 families living in the city. The population density was 178.3 /mi2. There were 32 housing units at an average density of 139.1 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 92.7% White and 7.3% African American.

There were 21 households, of which 4.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.9% were married couples living together, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 52.4% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.95 and the average family size was 2.50.

The median age in the city was 53.5 years. 4.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.6% were from 25 to 44; 43.9% were from 45 to 64; and 29.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.2% male and 48.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 64 people, 27 households, and 18 families living in the city. The population density was 279.9 /mi2. There were 35 housing units at an average density of 153.1 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 87.50% White, 7.81% African American, 1.56% Native American, 1.56% Asian, and 1.56% from two or more races.

There were 27 households, out of which 29.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.6% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.3% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the city the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 29.7% from 25 to 44, 28.1% from 45 to 64, and 12.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $18,750, and the median income for a family was $33,750. Males had a median income of $26,875 versus $12,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,773. There were 30.8% of families and 47.7% of the population living below the poverty line, including 75.0% of under eighteens and 77.8% of those over 64.

title: Triplett, Missouri


text:
Billings, Missouri

Billings is a city in Christian County, Missouri, United States. The population was 1,035 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Springfield, Missouri metropolitan area.

History
Billings was platted in 1872. The community was named after railroad baron Frederick H. Billings, who helped build the town a church in exchange for the naming rights. A post office has been in operation at Billings since 1871.

Geography
Billings is located at 37.06389°N, -93.55389°W (37.064001, -93.553819).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.89 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,035 people, 437 households, and 281 families living in the city. The population density was 1162.9 PD/sqmi. There were 504 housing units at an average density of 566.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.8% White, 0.3% African American, 1.0% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.6% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 437 households, of which 33.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.9% were married couples living together, 13.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.7% were non-families. 31.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 37.5 years. 26.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.5% were from 25 to 44; 23.4% were from 45 to 64; and 16.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 45.1% male and 54.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,091 people, 454 households, and 306 families living in the city. The population density was 1,400.0 PD/sqmi. There were 492 housing units at an average density of 631.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.26% European American, 0.37% African American, 0.55% Native American, and 0.82% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.09% of the population.

There were 454 households, out of which 33.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.4% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the city the population was spread out, with 26.9% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 22.3% from 45 to 64, and 14.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,207, and the median income for a family was $34,861. Males had a median income of $24,615 versus $19,881 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,503. About 14.1% of families and 15.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.3% of those under age 18 and 24.4% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Holless Wilbur Allen, inventor of the compound bow
 * Leon Rausch, vocalist with Bob Wills & The Texas Playboys
 * William P. Sullivan, politician

Notable events

 * In 2012 Billings High School won the Missouri Class 2A boys basketball state championship.

title: Billings, Missouri


text:
Clever, Missouri

Clever is a city in Christian County, Missouri, United States. The population was 2,139 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Springfield, Missouri Metropolitan Statistical Area. Clever, like the rest of Christian County, saw a significant increase in population between 2000 and 2010.

Geography
Clever is located on the Springfield Plateau of the Missouri Ozarks, 14.5 mi southwest of Springfield at an elevation of 1398 ft. The town lies in the western panhandle of Christian County, just south of Missouri Highway 14 between Nixa and Billings. The town of Republic and the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield are approximately six miles to the north and northeast.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.26 sqmi, all land.

History
Lincoln Township and the land that would eventually become the town of Clever remained largely unsettled for many years after Missouri became a state in 1821. A U.S. Government land survey wasn't conducted until 1834, and the first land transaction wasn't registered until 1845. With the coming of more settlement to southwest Missouri also came the Old Wire Road. Following a portion of the Great Osage Trail, the road extended from St. Louis, Missouri southwest to Fort Smith, Arkansas passing through Springfield, Missouri and on through Christian county. Along with supply trains and settlers headed for Fort Smith, the Butterfield Overland Mail also made use of the road from 1858 to 1861. A telegraph line ran along the same route as well, giving rise to its name.

Prior to Clever's existence as a town, a Civil War battle took place nearby. On August 2, 1861, the Battle of Dug Springs pitted the Union forces of General Nathaniel Lyon against the numerically superior combined Confederate forces of General Benjamin McCulloch, Arkansas State Troops under General Nicholas Bartlett Pearce, and Missouri State Guard under General (and Missouri Governor) Sterling Price. The battle, along present-day Old Wire Road, was the first time during the Missouri Campaign of 1861 that the Union "Army of the West" and Confederate forces met in conflict. Despite being outnumbered more than two to one, Lyon's Union forces prevailed in the battle. The clash is seen as a precursor to the much larger and strategically important Battle of Wilson's Creek eight days later.

Following the end of the Civil War, a road from Springfield to Billings, Missouri crossed Old Wire Road, and it was this crossroads that gave rise to Clever. Farmer Ike Teague constructed a two-story home at the crossroads around 1890. A short time later a physician, Doctor Bishop, purchased the home and constructed a building across the road with the intent of opening a drug store and mercantile. However he died unexpectedly before completion. It would sit vacant until a year later, around 1894, William Wilson purchased the building and opened the first store in the future Clever. The first post office was established in the store in 1896 with Frank Netzer—now the store's proprietor—as postmaster.

When the first choice for a post office name was rejected by the Federal government, Mr. Netzer surveyed customers and one, Tom Lentz, suggested "Clever" because the young community's residents were friendly and wise. Growth of the small crossroads village was slow at first. A blacksmith shop, second store building, and meeting hall had been constructed by 1902 and a tomato-canning factory established in 1904.

The next year, surveyors for the Missouri Pacific Railroad laid out a route from Springfield to Crane, Missouri that passed through Clever. It was at this same time the plat for Clever was officially surveyed and laid out. A 300-foot-deep well was drilled for community use and operated by a small gasoline engine until electricity came to Clever in 1928. By 1908 the growing town featured many new business spurred by the railroad, including a hotel, lumber yard, photography studio, a bank, movie theater, flour mill, and several mercantile and hardware establishments. With this rapid growth residents felt it time to officially organize as a municipality and petitioned the Christian County court, which granted the request and appointed Clever's first board of trustees in February, 1909.

In 1910, Clever's first documented population in the United States Census was 248. Its location on the railroad meant an opportunity for entertainment not normal for a typical small town of the era. A series of Chautauqua events over the course of several summers entertained the residents, as did famed showman and Wild West figure William "Buffalo Bill" Cody in 1913. Famed ragtime composer and pianist Blind Boone also performed in concert at the Clever school gym. Through the first half of the 20th century the population remained relatively stable around or slightly below 500 residents. However between 1990 and 2000 the population nearly doubled from 580 to 1,010., and then more than doubled between 2000 and 2010 rising from 1,010 to 2,139. On May 4, 2003, a series of tornadoes passed by the outer reaches of the town. The tornado outbreak resulted in major property damage, numerous livestock deaths, and one human fatality.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,139 people, 817 households, and 602 families residing in the city. The population density was 1697.6 PD/sqmi. There were 880 housing units at an average density of 698.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 2028 (96.3%) White, 7 (0.3%) African American, 1.1% Native American, 0.3% from other races, and 30 (2.0%) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 53 (2.5%) of the population.

There were 817 households, of which 44.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.9% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.3% were non-families. 20.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.01.

The median age in the city was 29 years. 30.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 35.6% were from 25 to 44; 16.3% were from 45 to 64; and 8.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city is 1034 (48.3%) male and 1105 (51.7%) female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,010 people, 388 households, and 282 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,581.7 PD/sqmi. There were 420 housing units at an average density of 657.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.72% White, 0.30% Native American, 0.10% Asian, and 1.88% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.88% of the population.

There were 388 households, out of which 43.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.8% were married couples living together, 10.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.3% were non-families. 23.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.60 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.4% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 35.0% from 25 to 44, 15.8% from 45 to 64, and 11.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,798, and the median income for a family was $38,500. Males had a median income of $27,955 versus $21,477 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,958. About 3.6% of families and 6.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.8% of those under age 18 and 8.2% of those age 65 or over.

City government
The City of Clever has four alderman, each elected for a two-year term on a nonpartisan basis, and a mayor also elected for a two-year term. The mayor is Dale Maisel who was first elected in June 2020. Alderman include Chris McPhil (East Ward 1), Scott Hackworth (East Ward 2), Josiah Fuller (West Ward 1), and Jeanie Priebe (West Ward 2). Kristy Keithley serves as the City Clerk.

The city provides a small police department for public safety, which is led by Chief Jeff Lofton. Fire protection is provided for the city and surrounding rural areas by the Clever Fire Protection District, a volunteer department.

Education
The first school building in Clever was constructed in 1909. A two-room, two-story brick building, it served to educate students from a number of previous small rural one-room school houses, including the Pleasant Hope school previously one half mile north of Clever. Additions were made in 1912 and 1916 that allowed the education to go up to tenth grade. In 1919 Blooming Grove and Taylor schools merged with Clever to form the Consolidated District Number 5. In 1920 it became a four-year high school.

A fire in the spring of 1931 destroyed the building; however, a larger two-story brick building was built in time for the following school year. Merges with several small rural districts in the mid-20th century led to the creation of the current Clever R-V (5) school district. The district now provides pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade education to the community and rural portions of Christian County. In 2010–11 school year, there were 1,119 students enrolled in the Clever R-V school district.

Notable people

 * Robert Mandan, actor, best known for his role as Chester Tate on the TV satire Soap.
 * Jim Winn, former professional baseball pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

title: Clever, Missouri


text:
Fremont Hills, Missouri

Fremont Hills is a city in Christian County, Missouri, United States. The population was 1,049 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Springfield, Missouri Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Fremont Hills is located at 37.06556°N, -93.25278°W (37.065582, -93.252872).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.55 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 826 people, 319 households, and 272 families living in the city. The population density was 1501.8 PD/sqmi. There were 345 housing units at an average density of 627.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.5% White, 0.2% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population.

There were 319 households, of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 82.8% were married couples living together, 1.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 0.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 14.7% were non-families. 11.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.59 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age in the city was 49.7 years. 21.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.6% were from 25 to 44; 36% were from 45 to 64; and 20% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.3% male and 48.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 597 people, 224 households, and 191 families living in the city. The population density was 1,147.0 PD/sqmi. There were 230 housing units at an average density of 441.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.16% White, 0.17% Native American, 0.50% Asian, 0.50% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.84% of the population.

There were 224 households, out of which 34.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 80.8% were married couples living together, 4.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 14.3% were non-families. 11.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 1.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 2.85.

In the city the population was spread out, with 23.6% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 25.3% from 25 to 44, 37.4% from 45 to 64, and 9.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $87,863, and the median income for a family was $94,346. Males had a median income of $66,250 versus $32,292 for females. The per capita income for the city was $39,895. About 2.9% of families and 3.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.7% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Fremont Hills, Missouri


text:
Highlandville, Missouri

Highlandville is a city in Christian County, Missouri, United States. The population was 963 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Springfield, Missouri Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
A post office called Highlandville has been in operation since 1872. The city was named on account of its lofty elevation.

Geography
Highlandville is located at 36.94278°N, -93.28639°W (36.942690, −93.286447).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.03 sqmi, of which 5.02 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
At the 2010 census, there were 911 people, 348 households and 259 families living in the city. The population density was 181.5 PD/sqmi. There were 380 housing units at an average density of 75.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.4% White, 0.1% African American, 1.1% Native American, and 1.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.4% of the population.

There were 348 households, of which 33.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.3% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 25.6% were non-families. 19.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 2.98.

The median age was 38.7 years. 25.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.1% were from 25 to 44; 30.7% were from 45 to 64; and 12% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census, there were 872 people, 321 households and 248 families living in the city. The population density was 175.2 PD/sqmi. There were 347 housing units at an average density of 69.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.25% White, 1.03% Native American, 0.34% from other races, and 1.38% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.92% of the population.

There were 321 households, of which 38.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.9% were married couples living together, 14.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.7% were non-families. 19.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.72 and the average family size was 3.10.

28.7% of the population were under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 32.0% from 25 to 44, 23.1% from 45 to 64, and 7.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.3 males.

The median household income was $31,767 and the median family income was $33,229. Males had a median income of $24,125 and females $20,682. The per capita income was $12,442. About 14.4% of families and 17.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 25.2% of those under age 18 and 16.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Highlandville, Missouri


text:
Nixa, Missouri

Nixa is a city in Christian County, Missouri, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 23,257. It is a principal city, and the second largest city in the Springfield, Missouri Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The area was first settled by farmers who located their farms along the wooded streams near present-day Nixa. The area became a crossroads, as it was a half-day ride with a team of horses from Springfield. Teamsters found it a convenient stopover site when hauling freight between Springfield and Arkansas. The village became known as Faughts. An early resident, Nicholas A. Inman, was a blacksmith from Tennessee, who set up a shop in 1852. When a post office was opened, a town meeting was held to decide on a name for the new community. Because of his years of service to the community, the town was suggested to be named for him. Another suggestion was "nix" because the community was "nothing but a crossroads". The name Nix was finally decided upon, and Inman's middle initial "a" was added to get the unique name of Nixa. The village incorporated on June 10, 1902.

Geography
Nixa is located at 37.04528°N, -93.29889°W (37.045253, -93.298755). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.48 sqmi, all land. The modern city rests on and around seven hills.

2020 census
The 2020 United States census counted 23,257 people, 8,170 households, and 5,899 families in Nixa. The population density was 2,500.8 per square mile (965.8/km$2$). There were 8,711 housing units at an average density of 936.7 per square mile (361.8/km$2$). The racial makeup was 88.32% (20,540) white, 1.13% (262) black or African-American, 0.65% (151) Native American, 1.19% (277) Asian, 0.14% (33) Pacific Islander, 1.26% (293) from other races, and 7.31% (1,701) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 3.9% (868) of the population.

Of the 8,170 households, 38.1% had children under the age of 18; 58.0% were married couples living together; 23.1% had a female householder with no husband present. Of all households, 24.2% consisted of individuals and 11.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.7 and the average family size was 3.2.

24.8% of the population was under the age of 18, 6.0% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 21.8% from 45 to 64, and 13.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34.8 years. For every 100 females, the population had 104.7 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 97.3 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $63,176 (with a margin of error of +/- $4,286) and the median family income was $69,874 (+/- $4,707). Males had a median income of $41,770 (+/- $3,651) versus $26,480 (+/- $3,003) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $35,059 (+/- $3,052). Approximately, 6.1% of families and 8.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.3% of those under the age of 18 and 6.9% of those ages 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, 19,022 people, 7,264 households, and 5,280 families lived in the city. The racial makeup of the city was 94.4% White, 0.9% African American, 0.7% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.9% from other races, and 2.2% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 3.1% of the population.

Of the 7,264 households, 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.0% were married couples living together, 12.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.3% were not families. About 22.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.59 and the average family size was 3.03.

The median age in the city was 34.2 years; 28.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30.4% were from 25 to 44; 21.2% were from 45 to 64; and 12.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the US Census of 2000, 12,124 people, 4,654 households, and 3,448 families resided in the city. The population density was 1,969.1 PD/sqmi. The 4,962 housing units averaged 805.9 per square mile (311.0/km$2$). The racial makeup of the city was 97.43% White, 0.46% African American, 0.36% Native American, 0.43% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.30% from other races, and 1.01% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 1.26% of the population.

Of the 4,654 households, 40.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.3% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.9% were not families. About 20.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the city, the population was distributed as 28.4% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 34.5% from 25 to 44, 17.2% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $37,655, and for a family was $44,556. Males had a median income of $33,636 versus $21,737 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,774. About 8.1% of families and 9.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.3% of those under age 18 and 6.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Nixa Public Schools operates four elementary schools for students in kindergarten through fourth grade: Helen-Matthews Elementary, Espy Elementary, Century Elementary, and the newest, High Pointe Elementary (named because it sits on the highest elevation in Christian County), opened in August 2007. Two intermediate schools serve students in the fifth and sixth grades: Inman Intermediate and Summit Intermediate. One junior high school, Nixa Junior High, and one high school, Nixa Public High School are in the district. A magnet school, John Thomas School of Discovery, hosts kindergarten through sixth grade. Ozarks Technical Community college Richwood Valley Campus is in the Nixa zip code.

Infrastructure
The city of Nixa began construction on the largest solar farm in Missouri in June 2017, which was completed and operational in November 2017. The solar farm has 33,288 solar panels located on 72-acres and provides an estimated 9% of the city's power needs. Former Sen. Jay Wasson owns the land on which the solar farm is being built. The farm has a life expectancy of 25 years.

Economy
Nixa is home to Accurate Plastics, as well as another plastic service located adjacent to Accurate Plastics named Diversified Plastics. Nixa is home to a train part manufacturer, Snyders Equipment Company, division of New York Air Brake. Also hailing from the community, Aire-Master, a deodorizer brand that specializes in commercial applications, such as restroom air freshener dispensers.

In 2011, B&B Theatres built a cinema between Ozark and Nixa along Route 14.

Nixa has a bowling alley named Century Lanes.

Politics
Nixa is part of Missouri's 7th congressional district.

A petition was submitted in June 2021 to set a recall election for Mayor Brian Steele. The Christian County clerk certified enough valid signatures to trigger the recall election on Nov 2 2021. The petition claims Steele should be recalled for abuse of emergency powers by enacting a mandatory mask mandate and other restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which have since expired. The vote failed, with 75% of the vote going to in favor of Steele.

Annual Sucker Day
Finis Gold, mayor of Nixa, a barber and local American Legion commander, started the annual Nixa Sucker Day in 1957. It has been a longstanding tradition. Locals often close up shop or skip school for the day to go "grabbin’ for suckers". The fish are then frozen until enough available for a big fish fry.

The event is held annually during May. It is a family-friendly event held on Nixa's Main Street, with live entertainment and local crafts. Sucker fish and other kinds of food are sold by vendors. Proceeds from Sucker Day activities help fund local causes such as scholarships for graduates from Nixa High School, Project Graduation, and Nixa JROTC.

Notable people

 * William F. Austin: CEO of Starkey Hearing Technologies
 * Dean Deetz: Professional baseball pitcher
 * Courtney Frerichs: American middle-distance runner, and Olympian
 * Jim Kreider: served as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives
 * David Krol: Professional bowler, winner of the 2024 PBA Playoffs
 * Mickey Owen: Professional baseball player and coach
 * Chase Allen: Tight end in the NFL

In popular culture
In the Robert Ludlum novels and films (fiction), Nixa is the birthplace of Jason Bourne/David Webb. The Bourne Supremacy revealed that Bourne's real name was David Webb and that he was born in Nixa, Missouri.

Several streets in a residential neighborhood northeast of downtown are named for performers on ABC-TV's Ozark Jubilee, including Nixa native Slim Wilson. They include Slim Wilson Boulevard, Red Foley Court, Zed Tennis Street, Bill Ring Court, (Speedy) Haworth Court and Ozark Jubilee Drive. M

A 2013 episode of the Investigation Discovery television series Beauty Queen Murder featured a murder in Nixa. The 1985 death of Jackie Johns was not solved until 2010, when DNA evidence proved that fellow Nixa resident Gerald Carnahan had raped and murdered the young woman.

Radio Stations

 * KGBX-FM

title: Nixa, Missouri