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.
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 People
Mt. Vernon's golf course features a nine-hole course, clubhouse, and golf cart rental and storage. There are a number of active leagues, including a senior men's league and Ladies' Golf Association.
Mt. Vernon, MO Recreation
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
Built in 1961 as a "thank you" to the people of his home county, Lawrence K. Jones provided a beautiful stone building which houses a wedding chapel, a meeting hall, and the Lawrence County Historical Society Museum.
Mt. Vernon, MO MuseumsExplore stories of Carthage history through rotating exhibits and special programs. Local history research library and gift s...
Scene of 1861 Civil War battle when 6,000 Southern troops forced Union soldiers to retreat to Sarcoxie....
The Confederate Army kept a garrison at Mr. Vernon after the battle of Wilson's Creek (August 10, 1861), but Union Colonel...