|
|
|
In a quiet little spot just west of Brookfield or southeast of Laclede was a marker that at one time was the focal point of a roadside area that gave a bit of a rest to travelers. A black metal sign with raised gold letters marked the history of the area for visitors not familiar with the area, whether that be locals or people on a busy cross state ribbon known as Highway 36.
This sign was part of a project headed up by the State Historical Society of Missouri in conjunction with the State Highway Commission. These markers were planted in strategic spots all across the state. There were at least 121 of these markers —a minimum of at least one per county. The process of erecting these historical markers began in the early 1950’s and continued until completion in the early 1960’s. The sign near Laclede was erected in 1955. Upon checking the state records the earliest dates found were in 1953 for Jefferson City and a few other older counties around the state, including New Madrid County in the Bootheel area. Most of North Missouri recieved their markers in 1955 through 1961. Many interesting bits of local history are contained on these markers designed to promote interest in the counties. The signs themselves have lasted throughout many years of weather and hardship. The design was such that they would need very little maintenance and no painting. Many of these markers have been displaced by highway construction or urban sprawl. This sign which was located near Highway 36 was left as a testament to the old curvy, winding days of the highway from Hannibal to St. Joseph. Each marker explained the history of the county, including any previous names for the county and how they came to be. It mentioned the county law centers (county seats). They also named prominent citizens of the past as well as significant events in history. The marker near Laclede, of course, featured many facts about John J. Pershing, as well as the state park and other features of the area.
See the LCL for the full story
In a quiet little spot just west of Brookfield or southeast of Laclede was a marker that at one time was the focal point of a roadside area that gave a bit of a rest to travelers. A black metal sign with raised gold letters marked the history of the area for visitors not familiar with the area, whether that be locals or people on a busy cross state ribbon known as Highway 36.
This sign was part of a project headed up by the State Historical Society of Missouri in conjunction with the State Highway Commission. These markers were planted in strategic spots all across the state. There were at least 121 of these markers —a minimum of at least one per county. The process of erecting these historical markers began in the early 1950’s and continued until completion in the early 1960’s. The sign near Laclede was erected in 1955. Upon checking the state records the earliest dates found were in 1953 for Jefferson City and a few other older counties around the state, including New Madrid County in the Bootheel area. Most of North Missouri recieved their markers in 1955 through 1961. Many interesting bits of local history are contained on these markers designed to promote interest in the counties. The signs themselves have lasted throughout many years of weather and hardship. The design was such that they would need very little maintenance and no painting. Many of these markers have been displaced by highway construction or urban sprawl. This sign which was located near Highway 36 was left as a testament to the old curvy, winding days of the highway from Hannibal to St. Joseph. Each marker explained the history of the county, including any previous names for the county and how they came to be. It mentioned the county law centers (county seats). They also named prominent citizens of the past as well as significant events in history. The marker near Laclede, of course, featured many facts about John J. Pershing, as well as the state park and other features of the area.
See the LCL for the full story
