The Conversation Department regulates this land of nearly 5000 acres to maintain and protect riparian habitat along Spring River. The lands vary from the rich bottom land soil along Spring River to rocky, upland soils. Presently, the area is 69 percent open range and 30 percent timber, with most of the timber along the river.
The area contains a 4-acre lake and 26 ponds. Hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, nature study, frogging and a nature trail are open to the public.
The county's first log jail burned in 1854, and a brick structure was built on Walter Street a block west of the square. It is presently undergoing reconstruction for historical preservation. It was used until 1868, and had an original cost of $3,500.
Mt. Vernon, MO Pioneer Life
Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce operates an office and visitor center at the start of the Ozark Mountain Parkway (Route 265)
Mt. Vernon, MO Railroad History
In his book, "Old Matt's View of It," J.K. Ross wrote about the death of the Old Shepherd from Mutton Hollow. He was gored to death by a bull. A Civil War tombstone marks the grave of James Marion Wood, who met this untimely fate in 1910
Mt. Vernon, MO Cemeteries
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 PeopleEighteen-hole mini-golf open to the public....
Course Access: PublicHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 3 days...