Big Ridge, Missouri facts for kids
Big Ridge is a small, quiet place in New Madrid County, Missouri, in the United States. It's known as an "unincorporated community." This means it's a group of homes and buildings that isn't officially a town or city with its own local government. Instead, it's part of the larger county area.
What is Big Ridge?
Big Ridge is a community where people live, but it doesn't have a mayor or its own town council. Decisions for Big Ridge are usually made by the government of New Madrid County. Many small communities across Missouri and the U.S. are unincorporated, meaning they are part of a county rather than a separate city.
Why is it Called Big Ridge?
The name "Big Ridge" actually tells you something important about the area! It's named after a noticeable, somewhat tall piece of land nearby that rises above the surrounding area. This "ridge" is a natural feature, like a long, narrow hill. So, the people who settled there simply named their community after this prominent landform.
Community Life and History
Even though Big Ridge is not a big city, it has its own history and important places. For a long time, the community had a historic church. Churches often serve as a central gathering place for people in small communities, not just for religious services but also for social events and support.
Big Ridge also used to have a schoolhouse. A schoolhouse was a very important building in early communities. It was where children learned and grew, and it often brought families together. Over time, as populations change, smaller schoolhouses might close, and students might attend schools in nearby towns. These old buildings, like the church and the former schoolhouse, are important parts of the community's past.
