Houston, MO

County: Texas

History

Houston, Missouri

Houston, Missouri, is a small city located in Texas County in the southern part of the state. The history of Houston dates back to the early 1800s when the region was inhabited by Osage Native Americans. However, the first permanent non-Native American settlement was established in the area in 1833.

Houston was named after Col. John M. Houston, a veteran of the War of 1812 and the Mexican-American War. He was also a prominent lawyer and politician in Missouri. The city was formally incorporated in 1848.

During the mid-19th century, Houston served as a trading center for the surrounding agricultural region. The city's growth was slow at first, but with the arrival of the Missouri Pacific Railroad in 1870, Houston began to develop more rapidly. The railroad provided new opportunities for trade and transportation, boosting the local economy.

In the early 20th century, the timber industry became a crucial part of Houston's economy. The region's abundant forests attracted logging operations, and sawmills were established to process and export timber. Houston grew as several lumber companies set up operations in the city.

Throughout its history, Houston has experienced natural disasters such as floods and tornadoes. The town has demonstrated resilience, rebuilding and recovering each time.

Today, Houston, Missouri, is a small community with a population of around 2,200 people. It continues to serve as a trade center for the surrounding agricultural and timber industries. The city takes pride in its history and maintains several historical landmarks and buildings, including the Houston House, a small museum that explores the local history.

Houston, Missouri, may not be a widely known city in terms of national or international importance, but it holds a cherished place in the hearts of its residents, who value its history, community spirit, and natural beauty.

Attractions

Texas Medical Center

Texas Medical Center

This renowned medical center is the largest in the world and is home to various hospitals, research institutions, and medical schools.

Space Center Houston

A must-visit for space enthusiasts, this center offers interactive exhibits, educational displays, and a chance to see historic space artifacts.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Featuring an extensive collection of natural wonders, including dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and a butterfly center.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

A world-class museum showcasing a diverse range of art from different periods and cultures.

Houston Zoo

Located within Hermann Park, this zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.

Buffalo Bayou Park

A beautiful urban park offering walking trails, bike paths, kayaking opportunities, and scenic views of downtown Houston.

The Menil Collection

A renowned art museum housing an impressive collection of ancient artworks, modern and contemporary art, and African and Pacific Islander art.

Museum of Natural Science

This educational museum offers exhibits on paleontology, astronomy, and biology, along with a butterfly center and an IMAX theater.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

Known for its vast collection of dinosaur skeletons, gemstone exhibits, and a butterfly center, this museum offers a fascinating exploration of natural history.

The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

A popular landmark featuring a towering waterfall that serves as a unique backdrop for photography and a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city.

Johnson Space Center

The official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center, offering interactive exhibits, astronaut training simulators, and a chance to see the control room of the iconic Apollo mission.

The Holocaust Museum Houston

Dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and promoting awareness of its history and implications.

Discovery Green

A vibrant urban park with a lake, playgrounds, art installations, and a calendar of events throughout the year.

Market Square Park

A historic park in downtown Houston featuring green spaces, a dog park, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Known for its dinosaur exhibits, gem and mineral displays, and a butterfly center, this museum offers a variety of engaging exhibits for all ages.

Climate

The climate of Houston, MO is considered humid subtropical. Summers in Houston are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius). High humidity levels can make the weather feel even hotter.

Winters in Houston are generally mild, with temperatures averaging in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit (around 0-10 degrees Celsius). However, colder spells can occur, and temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, leading to some snowfall. Snow accumulation is usually light and melts relatively quickly.

Spring and fall in Houston are usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-25 degrees Celsius). These seasons can also experience some rain showers and thunderstorms.

Rainfall is relatively consistent throughout the year in Houston, with an average annual precipitation of around 45 inches (114 cm). The wettest months tend to be May and June, while drier periods occur in the late summer and early fall.

Overall, Houston, MO experiences a mix of warm summers, mild winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Houston, Missouri is a small city in Texas County with several distinct neighborhoods. Below are some of the prominent neighborhoods in Houston:

Downtown Houston

This is the central business district of the city and where most of the commercial and administrative activities take place. Here, you'll find a mix of restaurants, shops, offices, and government buildings.

Southside

Located south of downtown, Southside is primarily residential. It has a mix of historic homes, newer developments, and apartments. The neighborhood has a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere, with parks and recreational facilities nearby.

Northside

Northside is another residential area, north of downtown. It features a blend of single-family homes, duplexes, and some small apartment complexes. Northside has a more suburban feel, with tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties.

Northeast Houston

This neighborhood is located northeast of downtown and is known for its proximity to the Houston R-1 School District, which includes the elementary, middle, and high schools. It is primarily a residential area, with a tight-knit community feel.

West Houston

West Houston consists of mostly farmland, with some residential areas scattered throughout. This neighborhood offers a more rural lifestyle, with bigger lots and a quieter atmosphere. It is perfect for those seeking privacy and a slower pace of life.

East Houston

East Houston features a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is home to the Houston Industrial Park and several manufacturing companies. The neighborhood also encompasses the Houston Municipal Golf Course, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Overall, the neighborhoods in Houston, MO, offer a range of options for residents, from a vibrant downtown area to peaceful suburban communities and more rural settings. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, but all share a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Nearby Cities