The history of Southern Missouri dates back to early settlers who arrived in the 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and the promise of a new life in the Ozarks. Those first settlers, a mix of French, German, Native American and Scots-Irish immigrants, laid the foundation for what would become a diverse, proud region that still holds onto its roots today. Whether it’s through local traditions, strong ties to the land, or the warmth and hospitality you’ll feel from the locals, Southern Missouri has a way of making you feel right at home. It’s a place where history, community, and nature all come together to create a lifestyle that’s uniquely its own!
(Courtesy: Getty Images)
Before the Cold Sets In: How Southern Missouri Got Ready for Winter the Old-Fashioned Way.
Southern Missouri is fortunate to host four seasons, and now that fall is upon us — with cooler mornings, woodsmoke on the breeze, and the sycamores trading green for gold — it seems a fine time to look back on how preparing for this season was done in younger years.
(Courtesy: Ozarks Folklore)
A Nighttime Encounter with Missouri’s Most Elusive Legend.
They call it many names: the Ozark Black Howler, the Hoo-Hoo, the Nightshade Bear, even the shadowy Booger Cat. Some say the name was born of fear; others say it was necessity. After all—when the dark woods scream back, you have to call it something. Read more, if you dare, about this mysterious creature that some say is still alive and well in the rolling hills of Southern Missouri.
(Courtesy: Missouri Ruralist)
Timber and Ties: A Story of Southern Missouri Barn Raisings.
Explore the timeless tradition of barn-raising in Southern Missouri, where community spirit and hard work come together to build more than just structures – they build bonds. This cherished practice, still alive today, connects the past with the present, showcasing the strength of local ties and shared values.
(Courtesy: Wikipedia)
The River, the Sun, and Raw Hamburger Sandwiches: A Southern Missouri Tradition.
The raw hamburger sandwich, or as it’s sometimes known, steak tartare when made with steak instead of ground beef, has roots in European cuisine that trace back hundreds of years. But its appearance in American culture, especially in rural and working-class settings, has less to do with haute cuisine and more with practicality and tradition. Learn more about this odd but cherished Southern Missouri tradition.
(Courtesy: Abby Parks)