Missouri
The rivers arrived first, carving their priceless art into the Missouri landscape. They were our first trails, cutting a path for hundreds of explorers and thousands of settlers. The early pioneers branched out, forming their own trails, establishing towns along the way.As you follow those first settlers through the Gateway to the West, you too will carve a path. One filled with memories from an adventure second to none. Branch out, like the pioneers did, covering the trails that launched thousands of prairie schooners.
Along the way, experience Missouri's natural beauty and neighborliness, with a lifetime of navigable rivers. Just ask the ghosts of Lewis and Clark, who started - and ended - their 1804 Corps of Discovery in St. Charles. Carve your own path of discovery along Missouri's rivers. Blaze your own trails and write your own journals.
All across the state, you'll find plenty of opportunities to take home Missouri memories. Our shops are like our rivers. No two are the same. Each offers something new. So take off antiquing through Missouri's rich history. Browse through hundreds of shops at two of the world's largest railroad stations turned into shoppers' paradise, they're the state's biggest bookends, both named Union Station - one in Kansas City, one in St. Louis. From either spot, you can do more than read about Missouri's past, you can jump right in.
Explore Missouri
Harold Bell Wright
Many know that Harold Bell Wright's, "Shepherd of the Hills" was the most widely read book of fiction in the history of publishing! Few know, however, that many of the places, events, and characters are based on actual models. There really was an "old shepherd of Mutton Hollow,&
Mt. Vernon, MO Famous PeopleAurora Carnegie Library
The Carnegie library was built in 1917-18 for $18,000
Aurora, MO Carnegie LibrariesThe 3rd "Old Jail"
This imposing structure on the north side of the square was built at a cost of $16,000 in 1874 (two years before Custer's Last Stand)
Mt. Vernon, MO Pioneer LifeEdwin P. Hubble, American Astronomer
Marshfield is the hometown of the famous astronomer, Edwin Powell Hubble. He was born on November 29, 1889 to an insurance executive in Marshfield and passed away in California on September 28, 1953.
Marshfield, MO Famous PeopleLong Branch Lake Fishing
Long Branch Lake has an excellent reputation for bass fishing, but anglers can cast their lines for catfish, walleye and crappie as well. The lake's 24 miles of shoreline have many small coves that offer good fishing. Statewide fishing regulations apply.
, MO FishingGene Taylor Library and Museum
At the northeast corner of the Square is a replica of an office used by Congressman Gene Taylor during this 16-year tenure in Washington, DC. This building houses mementos of Mr. Taylor's years in public service. History on the Wild Peony fields, as well as other various memorabilia on Sarcoxie'
Sarcoxie, MO MuseumsMark Twain Lake Fishing
With over 18,000 acres of water, Mark Twain Lake offers anglers thriving populations of catfish, bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill and sunfish. Timber has been left in the upper ends of the lake and in selected coves to improve fish habitat. According to 2004 reports: Bass. Based on 2003
, MO FishingDorothea B. Hoover Historical Museum
This museum emphasizes the growth and development of Joplin as the result of mining in the Tri-State Mining District, primarily during the Victorian period. On display are assorted historic items from Joplin's mining era, including an extensive doll collection and the "Circus Room", a child'
Joplin, MO Museums