Clifford, Missouri facts for kids

Clifford was once a small community located in Polk County, in the U.S. state of Missouri. Today, it is known as an extinct town, which means it no longer exists as an active settlement.

What is an Extinct Town?

An extinct town, often called a ghost town, is a place where most or all of the people have left. These towns might have been busy once, but for different reasons, people moved away. Sometimes, a local resource like a mine ran out, or a new road or railway bypassed the town. When everyone leaves, the buildings are often left empty, and the town slowly disappears. Clifford is one such place in Missouri.

Clifford's Short History

Clifford had a very short life as a recognized community. A post office was opened there in 1904. This was an important step for any small settlement, as it meant people could send and receive mail. However, the post office only stayed open for about 10 years, closing in 1914.

The town's name, Clifford, came from a local merchant. It is said that he named the community after his own son. This was a common way for small towns to get their names in the past, often honoring important local families or founders.