Baxter, Missouri facts for kids

Baxter was once a small community, or "town," located in New Madrid County, in the U.S. state of Missouri. Today, it is considered an extinct town or a "ghost town," meaning it no longer exists as a populated place. The GNIS, which keeps track of names and locations of places in the United States, lists Baxter as a former populated area.

What Was Baxter?

Baxter was a small settlement that existed for a period of time in New Madrid County. It was likely a place where people lived and worked, but over time, the residents moved away, and the buildings were either removed or fell into ruin. This is a common story for many small towns, especially those that grew up around a specific industry that later disappeared.

How Did Baxter Get Its Name?

The community of Baxter was named after a person who played an important role in its early days. It was named after a Mr. Baxter, who owned and operated a local lumber business. This suggests that the town might have grown because of the lumber industry, which was important in many parts of Missouri during certain historical periods. Towns often formed around key businesses like sawmills or mines, providing homes and services for the workers.

Where Was Baxter Located?

Baxter was located in New Madrid County, Missouri. This county is in the southeastern part of Missouri, an area known as the "Missouri Bootheel" because of its shape. This region has a rich history, including significant agricultural development and, at one time, a thriving timber industry. While Baxter no longer appears on modern maps as a populated place, its name remains in historical records.