Fulton, MO
County: Callaway
History
Fulton, Missouri has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The area where Fulton is located was originally inhabited by the Osage Native American tribe.
The exploration and settlement of Fulton began in the early 1800s when pioneers moved westward. In 1825, Judge James Moss and his family became the first permanent settlers in the area. Moss built a log cabin and established a farm near the present-day Court Street in Fulton. The town was named Fulton in honor of Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.
Fulton's growth accelerated with the arrival of the North Missouri Railroad in 1857. The railroad brought increased commerce and connected the town to larger markets, leading to further development. In 1859, Fulton was officially incorporated as a city.
During the American Civil War, Fulton played a significant role as a supply center for Union forces. The city was not directly affected by major battles, but saw military presence and troops passing through frequently.
One of the most prominent events in Fulton's history occurred on March 5, 1946, when Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, delivered his famous "Iron Curtain" speech at Westminster College. Churchill's speech, in which he warned about the rising communist threat and the division of Europe, gained global attention and put Fulton on the world map. Today, the famous "Breakthrough" sculpture, inspired by Churchill's speech, stands on the Westminster College campus.
Over the years, Fulton has continued to grow and evolve. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Callaway County Courthouse, which was built in 1858 and has been included on the National Register of Historic Places. Other attractions in Fulton include the National Churchill Museum, which houses exhibits related to Churchill's speech, and the Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum, featuring a collection of artifacts and displays showcasing the county's history.
Fulton is also known for its educational institutions. In addition to Westminster College, William Woods University is located in Fulton, providing further cultural and academic opportunities for residents and visitors.
Today, Fulton is a thriving community that celebrates its history while embracing progress and growth. The city continues to attract visitors who are interested in exploring its rich heritage and experiencing the unique charm of this historic Midwestern town.
Attractions
The National Churchill Museum
Located on the campus of Westminster College, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, including the famous Iron Curtain speech he delivered on the college campus.
Auto World Museum
This museum showcases a large collection of classic and vintage automobiles, motorcycles, and memorabilia. It is a great place for car enthusiasts to explore.
Serenity Valley Winery
Fulton is known for its wineries, and Serenity Valley is a popular choice. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyard, and scenic views.
The Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society
This historical society preserves and promotes the history of Callaway County. They have a museum and research center where visitors can learn about the region's past.
Logboat Brewing Company
This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers and a taproom where visitors can relax and enjoy their drinks. They also have a spacious outdoor patio for events and live music.
Tanglewood Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at Tanglewood Golf Course, which offers scenic views and a challenging layout.
Churchill's Steak and Seafood
This upscale restaurant located in downtown Fulton offers a fine dining experience with a diverse menu featuring steaks, seafood, and other gourmet dishes.
Fulton Brick District
This historic area of downtown Fulton features beautiful brick buildings and charming storefronts. It is a great place to stroll around, shop, and dine.
Tebbetts Community Park
Located near Fulton, Tebbetts Community Park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
William Woods University Equestrian Center
This equestrian facility is a popular destination for horse enthusiasts. Visitors can watch horse shows, take riding lessons, or explore the scenic trails.
Climate
Fulton, Missouri has a humid continental climate. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-35 degrees Celsius). Winters are cold, with average high temperatures in the 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 0-5 degrees Celsius), and temperatures often drop below freezing at night. Snowfall is common in winter, with an average of around 20 inches (50 cm) per year.
Spring and fall seasons in Fulton tend to be mild and transitionary. Spring temperatures gradually increase from cool to warm, while fall temperatures gradually decrease from warm to cool. These seasons typically experience moderate precipitation.
Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average of around 44 inches (112 cm) per year. Summers tend to be wetter than winters, with occasional thunderstorms.
Overall, Fulton, MO experiences four distinct seasons with a range of temperatures and precipitation patterns throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Fulton, Missouri is a small city with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Fulton:
Downtown Fulton
Located in the heart of the city, downtown Fulton is a bustling area with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It is home to many local businesses and community events.
Westminster College neighborhood
This neighborhood is centered around Westminster College, a prestigious liberal arts college known for hosting Winston Churchill's famous "Iron Curtain" speech. It features beautiful architecture, including the famous Winston Churchill Memorial and Library.
College Hill
Adjacent to Westminster College, College Hill is a residential neighborhood primarily made up of faculty and staff housing associated with the college. The area is characterized by charming homes and tree-lined streets.
Southside
Located south of downtown, the Southside neighborhood is home to a mix of residential and commercial areas. It has a diverse community and offers affordable housing options.
Market Street
Running parallel to downtown Fulton, Market Street offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is known for its lively atmosphere, including various restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Eastside
Situated on the eastern side of Fulton, this neighborhood has a mix of residential areas and industrial zones. It is located near the Fulton State Hospital, which is one of the largest employers in the city.
Briarbrook
Located on the western side of Fulton, Briarbrook is a suburban neighborhood with a mix of housing styles, including single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is a quiet residential area with access to schools, parks, and other amenities.
Overall, Fulton, MO offers a range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Whether you prefer the historic downtown area or the quieter suburbs, there is a neighborhood in Fulton to suit diverse preferences.