Savannah, MO

County: Andrew

History

Savannah, Missouri

Savannah, Missouri, is a small city located in Andrew County. The history of Savannah can be traced back to the 1830s when the area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Iowa, Sac, Fox, and Kickapoo.

In 1836, John and Andrew McFerran, two brothers from Kentucky, purchased the land that would become Savannah. They named the town after Savannah, Georgia. The first permanent settlement was established in 1837 when a small group of settlers arrived in the area.

Savannah quickly grew due to its location along the Platte Purchase, an area that was added to Missouri's territory in 1836. It became the county seat of Andrew County in 1841. The town's growth accelerated with the arrival of the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad in the early 1850s, which connected Savannah to the growing transportation network.

During the Civil War, Savannah played a significant role as it was a strategic location along the Missouri-Kansas border. The town was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to conflicts and skirmishes. In 1864, Confederate guerrillas, led by William Quantrill, attacked Savannah, burning buildings and plundering the town.

Following the war, Savannah flourished as an agricultural community. The fertile soil attracted farmers, and the town became known for its production of crops like corn, wheat, and hay. The farming economy further expanded with the introduction of the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of goods.

Throughout the 20th century, Savannah continued to grow and develop. The community maintained its focus on agriculture, with farmers adopting modern techniques and technologies. In addition, the town saw the establishment of various businesses and services to meet the needs of its residents.

Today, Savannah is a thriving community with a population of around 5,000 people. It is known for its small-town charm, historic downtown area, and strong sense of community. The city's history is celebrated through various events, such as the annual Savannah History Days festival, which showcases the town's heritage and traditions.

Attractions

Remington Nature Center

Remington Nature Center

A nature center that features exhibits on local wildlife, history, and the natural environment of the Missouri River region.

Jesse James Home Museum

Located in nearby St. Joseph, this museum is the site where notorious outlaw Jesse James was killed in 1882. It showcases artifacts related to his life and the history of the James-Younger Gang.

Patee House Museum

Another St. Joseph attraction, the Patee House Museum is a former luxury hotel turned history museum. It features exhibits on the Pony Express, the Civil War, and various other aspects of local history.

Wyeth-Tootle Mansion

A beautifully restored Victorian mansion in St. Joseph, the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion allows visitors to step back in time and imagine life in the late 19th century.

Krug Park

This 163-acre park in St. Joseph offers a variety of outdoor amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, a rose garden, and a public swimming pool.

Pony Express National Museum

Located in St. Joseph, this museum tells the story of the Pony Express, a crucial mail delivery system that operated in the mid-1800s. It includes exhibits on the riders, the horses, and the challenges they faced.

Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art

Situated in nearby St. Joseph, this art museum houses a diverse collection of American art, featuring works by regional, national, and international artists.

These are just a few examples of attractions near Savannah, MO. Remember to check the opening hours and availability in advance, as some attractions may have specific schedules or require reservations.

Climate

Savannah, Missouri has a humid continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold winters. The area experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.

Summers in Savannah are generally warm and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the upper 80s to lower 90s Fahrenheit (30-35 degrees Celsius). However, temperature extremes can occasionally push into the 100s Fahrenheit (38+ degrees Celsius). The summers are also characterized by frequent thunderstorms and average precipitation amounts.

Winters in Savannah are cold, with average high temperatures in the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (0-5 degrees Celsius). The area receives moderate snowfall during the winter months, usually accumulating to several inches but occasionally experiencing heavier snowstorms. Cold fronts can bring freezing temperatures and windchills.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Savannah. Spring brings milder temperatures, with average highs in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius). This season is also associated with increased rainfall and occasional severe thunderstorms. Autumn temperatures gradually cool down, with average highs in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage is vibrant in this region.

Overall, Savannah, MO experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, from hot and humid summers to cold winters with occasional snowfall. The area receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, making it a typically wet climate.

Neighborhoods

Savannah is a small city located in Andrew County, Missouri. While it is not a large city, Savannah does have several distinct neighborhoods that offer different living environments and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Savannah:

Downtown Savannah

The heart of the city, Downtown Savannah features a mix of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It is home to the Andrew County Courthouse and offers a charming small-town atmosphere.

North Savannah

Located north of Downtown, this neighborhood is primarily residential. It has a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. North Savannah offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and quiet neighborhoods.

South Savannah

South Savannah is a more diverse area, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. You'll find a variety of housing options here, from older homes to newer developments. The Southview Commerce Center, which houses several businesses, is also located in this neighborhood.

Savannah Lake

Situated to the west of the city, Savannah Lake is a peaceful neighborhood that surrounds Savannah Lake itself. It offers a more rural setting with scenic views and is known for its recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

East Savannah

This neighborhood covers the eastern part of the city and has a mix of residential and commercial areas. It includes the Savannah R-III School District campus, Savannah High School, and near the Savannah Memorial Airport. There are various housing options available for families and professionals.

West Savannah

Located west of Downtown, this neighborhood is predominantly residential and offers a mix of housing styles, including single-family homes and townhomes. West Savannah also provides easy access to recreational areas such as Vilander Bluff Natural Area and Camp Geiger.

Overall, Savannah, MO, offers residents a range of diverse neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and amenities. Whether you prefer a historic downtown setting, suburban living, or a rural lakeside retreat, Savannah has something to offer for various lifestyles and preferences.

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