Bois D'Arc, Missouri facts for kids

Bois D'Arc is a small, unincorporated community located in Greene County, Missouri, in the United States. It's found about 15 miles northwest of the larger city of Springfield. Even though it's not a city with its own government, Bois D'Arc is still an important part of the Springfield metropolitan area.

What is Bois D'Arc?

Bois D'Arc is known as an "unincorporated community." This means it's a place where people live, but it doesn't have its own local government, like a mayor or city council, that a city or town would have. Instead, it's usually governed by the county it's in, which is Greene County for Bois D'Arc.

Where is Bois D'Arc Located?

This community is situated in the southwestern part of Missouri. It's close enough to Springfield that many people in Bois D'Arc might work or shop there. Being part of the Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area means it's connected to the economic and social life of the bigger city and its surrounding towns.

A Bit of History

Bois D'Arc has a history that goes back many years. A post office was opened in the community way back in 1868. This shows that people were living and communicating in the area even before it was officially established as a populated place in 1881.

How Did Bois D'Arc Get Its Name?

The name "Bois D'Arc" is quite unique and has an interesting story! The community was named after a specific type of tree called an osage-orange tree. These trees are also known as "bois d'arc" trees, which comes from a French phrase meaning "wood of the bow." This name was given because the wood from these trees is very strong and was often used by Native Americans and early settlers to make bows for hunting. A particular osage-orange tree stood near where the community first began, giving the area its special name.