Decatur, Missouri facts for kids
Decatur was once a small town in Cole County, Missouri, in the United States. Today, it's known as an extinct town or a "ghost town," meaning people no longer live there. The place is still recognized on maps as a former community.
A post office was opened in Decatur in 1875. It served the community for many years before closing in 1906. This often happens when a town starts to shrink or people move away.
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Who Was Stephen Decatur?
The town of Decatur was named after Stephen Decatur, a very famous officer in the United States Navy. He was a hero during the early 1800s.
Stephen Decatur was born in 1779 and became known for his bravery at sea. He joined the Navy when he was young and quickly became a respected leader. He fought in important conflicts like the First Barbary War and the War of 1812.
Famous Actions
One of his most famous acts was during the First Barbary War. In 1804, he led a daring mission to burn a captured American ship, the USS Philadelphia, in Tripoli Harbor. This stopped the ship from being used by the enemy. He was also a key figure in the War of 1812, where he commanded several ships and won important battles.
Why Towns Were Named After Him
Many towns and places across the United States were named after Stephen Decatur because he was seen as a national hero. Naming a town after him was a way to honor his courage and service to the country.
What is a Ghost Town?
A ghost town is a place that used to have people living and working there, but now it's mostly empty. This can happen for many reasons.
Why Towns Become Empty
Sometimes, a town might become a ghost town because a local resource, like a mine or a forest, runs out. Other times, new roads or railways might bypass a town, making it harder for businesses to thrive. People then move to other places where there are more opportunities. Decatur is one of many such places in Missouri that saw its population move away over time.
