Cunningham, Chariton County, Missouri facts for kids

Cunningham is a small place in Missouri, United States, that isn't officially a town or city. It's called an unincorporated community. This means it doesn't have its own local government like a mayor or city council. Instead, it's part of Chariton County.

You can find Cunningham about a mile south of a town called Sumner. It's also very close to some cool nature spots! Just half a mile to the south are Swan Lake and the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a special area set aside to protect wildlife, especially birds.

History of Cunningham

Cunningham was first planned out in 1870. When a place is "platted," it means someone drew up a map showing where streets, lots, and buildings would go. It was named after a person named Dr. John F. Cunningham. He was an important local elected official, which means people in the area voted for him to represent them and make decisions for the community.

A post office was opened in Cunningham in 1871, which was important for people to send and receive mail. This post office stayed open for many years, until 1910.