Donnell, Missouri facts for kids
Donnell is a small, unincorporated community located in Jefferson County, within the U.S. state of Missouri. An "unincorporated community" means it's a group of homes or businesses that isn't officially a city or town with its own local government. Instead, it's usually governed by the county.
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What is Donnell?
Donnell is a place where people live, but it doesn't have a mayor or its own city council. It's part of the larger Jefferson County. These types of communities are common in many parts of the United States, especially in rural or less populated areas.
How Donnell Got Its Name
The community of Donnell was named after an early settler in the area. His name was Eli Donnell. Settlers were some of the first people to move into and build communities in a new region. Naming places after important early settlers was a common practice as new areas developed.
Where is Donnell Located?
Donnell is found in Jefferson County, Missouri. Missouri is a state in the central part of the United States. Jefferson County is known for its beautiful landscapes and its location near the Mississippi River.
Understanding Unincorporated Communities
An unincorporated community is different from a city or a town.
- No Local Government: It doesn't have its own separate government, like a city hall or a police department just for that community.
- County Services: Instead, services like roads, police, and fire protection are usually provided by the county government.
- Flexibility: These communities can grow and change without needing to follow strict city rules.
Why Communities Stay Unincorporated
There are several reasons why a community might remain unincorporated:
- Small Population: It might not have enough people to form its own city government.
- Lower Taxes: Sometimes, residents prefer not to pay extra city taxes that would come with being an incorporated city.
- Rural Lifestyle: People might want to keep a more rural or quiet way of life, which can be easier outside of a formal city structure.
History of Jefferson County, Missouri
Donnell is part of Jefferson County, which has a rich history.
- Formation: Jefferson County was officially created in 1818. It was named after Thomas Jefferson, who was the third President of the United States.
- Early Settlers: Like Eli Donnell, many early settlers came to this area for farming and to build new lives.
- Growth: Over time, the county has grown, with a mix of small towns, cities, and unincorporated communities like Donnell.
