Mount Vernon, MO

Mount Vernon, Missouri, is a small city located in Lawrence County in the southwestern part of the state. The city's history dates back to the early 1800s when European-American settlers began moving into the area.

In 1830, John W. Williams purchased a large tract of land where Mount Vernon is now situated. He saw the potential for growth and development and decided to lay out a town. Williams named the town "Mount Vernon" after George Washington's plantation estate in Virginia.

The city grew steadily, and in 1852, it officially became the county seat of Lawrence County. The courthouse, constructed in 1855, still stands as a historic landmark in Mount Vernon.

During the Civil War, Mount Vernon became a center of activity due to its strategic location on the Old Wire Road, a vital communication and supply route. The town witnessed several skirmishes and raids by both Union and Confederate forces. In 1863, Confederate guerrilla leader William Quantrill and his men burned parts of the city during a raid.

After the war, Mount Vernon began to recover, and by the late 19th century, it established itself as an agricultural and commercial hub. The arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway in 1871 further enhanced the city's connectivity and helped boost the local economy.

Throughout the 20th century, Mount Vernon continued to thrive as a farming community and saw various improvements in infrastructure and services. The town's economy diversified, with industries such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare contributing to its growth.

Today, Mount Vernon remains a vibrant community with a population of around 4,500. The city is proud of its rich history and preserves many of its historic buildings and landmarks. Mount Vernon's downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and attracts visitors with its small-town charm and historical significance.

Mount Vernon Farmers Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Mount Vernon Veterans Memorial

A memorial dedicated to the veterans of Mount Vernon, featuring a bronze statue and plaques commemorating their service.

Mount Vernon Historical Museum

A museum showcasing the history of Mount Vernon and the surrounding area, with exhibits on local industries, cultural heritage, and historic artifacts.

Nelson's Old Riverview Farm

A family-friendly farm where you can engage in activities such as pumpkin picking, hayrides, and interacting with farm animals.

Prairie State Park

Located just outside Mount Vernon, this state park allows visitors to explore the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, observe wildlife, and enjoy nature trails.

Lake Stockton

A scenic lake located nearby, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.

Shepard's Mill Covered Bridge

A historic covered bridge located in nearby Ash Grove, which provides a picturesque setting for photography and picnicking.

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

A serene and beautiful garden located in nearby Springfield, featuring traditional Japanese landscaping and a koi pond.

Springfield Art Museum

Located in nearby Springfield, this museum showcases a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

Wild Animal Safari

Located in nearby Strafford, this safari park allows visitors to drive through and observe a variety of exotic animals up close, such as zebras, giraffes, and rhinos.

The climate of Mount Vernon, MO, is classified as humid subtropical. Summers in Mount Vernon tend to be hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (26-33 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the upper 90s (35 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Winters are generally mild, with average high temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-13 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, and snowfall is possible but not very common.

Mount Vernon receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June. It experiences some thunderstorms, particularly in the spring and summer months. The area is also prone to severe weather events such as tornadoes, with the peak tornado season occurring in the spring.

Overall, Mount Vernon experiences four distinct seasons and has a typical Midwestern climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Mount Vernon, Missouri is a city located in Lawrence County. It is a small, tight-knit community with several neighborhoods that offer a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Mount Vernon:

Downtown

The heart of Mount Vernon, the downtown area is a vibrant and historic district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses. The downtown area is known for its charming brick buildings and picturesque streetscape.

Country Club

Located on the eastern side of Mount Vernon, the Country Club neighborhood is known for its beautiful homes and expansive yards. It is a quiet residential area with a mix of older and newer homes. The neighborhood gets its name from the nearby golf course and country club, offering recreational opportunities for residents.

College Crest

Situated near Southwest Baptist University, College Crest is a neighborhood that primarily caters to students and faculty members. The area offers rental housing options, proximity to the university campus, and easy access to nearby amenities such as restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Indian Springs

Indian Springs is a newer residential neighborhood located on the southern side of Mount Vernon. It features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood offers a peaceful environment with tree-lined streets, parks, and playgrounds.

Southside

Located on the southern edge of Mount Vernon, the Southside neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial developments. It is a diverse neighborhood with a range of housing options, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartment complexes. The Southside neighborhood provides easy access to amenities such as shopping centers, schools, and parks.

Northside

The Northside neighborhood is located towards the northern part of Mount Vernon. It is predominantly a residential area with a mix of housing styles, including older homes and more modern developments. The Northside neighborhood offers a quiet and family-friendly environment.

Overall, Mount Vernon, MO offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're looking for a historic downtown feel, a quiet residential area, or a neighborhood close to amenities, Mount Vernon has something to offer.