Arrow Rock Historic District facts for kids
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Arrow Rock
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Houston Tavern in 1940
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 Location in Missouri
Location in the United States
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| Location | Arrow Rock, Missouri |
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| Area | 260 acres (1.1 km2) |
| Built | 1817 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000422 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHLD | May 23, 1963 |
The Arrow Rock Historic District is a special place in Missouri that has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It includes the small town of Arrow Rock, Missouri and the nearby Arrow Rock State Historic Site. This area was a very important stop on the famous Santa Fe Trail, a path used by pioneers heading west. The historic district covers about 260 acres (1.05 km²) and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1963.
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What is Arrow Rock?
Arrow Rock gets its name from a unique stone formation along the Missouri River. Native Americans living here long ago valued this rock for making tools and weapons.
A Historic Stop on the Santa Fe Trail
In 1815, a ferry service started here, helping settlers cross the river as they traveled west. By the 1820s, this route became known as the Santa Fe Trail. It was a major pathway for people moving to the western parts of America.
The town of Arrow Rock grew to help these travelers. It offered places to stay, like the J. Huston Tavern (built in 1834 and still standing today). There was also a fresh-water spring, which was very important for people on long journeys. By the mid-1800s, about 1,000 people lived in Arrow Rock. However, as the Santa Fe Trail became less important, the town's population also decreased.
Saving History: Preservation Efforts
Since 1912, Arrow Rock has become a popular place for people interested in history. This is thanks to many people working to preserve its past. In 1963, it became a National Historic Landmark. Later, in 2006, it was named one of America's "Dozen Distinctive Destinations." In 2008, it was recognized as a "Preserve America Community."
For a long time, efforts to preserve and share Arrow Rock's history mainly focused on the stories of wealthy white men. However, starting in 1996, Arrow Rock began to tell a more complete story. New programs now highlight the important contributions of African Americans in the area. Historians and preservationists are working to include everyone's history.
Famous Buildings and People
The historic district includes both the town of Arrow Rock and parts of the state historic site. Many buildings from before the American Civil War are still standing. These include the historic J. Huston Tavern, a courthouse, a jail, and several churches.
Inside the state park, you can find the George Caleb Bingham House. This simple brick house was once the home of George Caleb Bingham, a famous artist who painted scenes of frontier life. The house has been restored to look as it did when he lived there.
