Dudenville, Missouri facts for kids
Dudenville (also known as Chambersville or Chambersburg) is a small, historic place in Missouri, USA. It's called an unincorporated community, which means it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's part of Dade and Jasper counties. Dudenville is located about 1,086 feet (331 meters) above sea level. You can find it on a map using these coordinates: 37°18′20″N 94°5′0″W / 37.30556°N 94.08333°W.
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The Story Behind Dudenville's Name
People in the area have a cool story about how Dudenville got its name. Long ago, the community's name would actually change! It was called Chambersville sometimes and Dudenville at other times. This depended on which store owner had the local post office. If the store owner who supported the Republican party had it, the name might be one thing. If the Democratic store owner had it, it might be the other. When the post office finally closed down in 1900, the name Dudenville was the one being used, and it stuck.
Life in Old Dudenville
Many years ago, Dudenville was a much busier place! It had several important businesses that people needed every day.
What Businesses Were There?
- There were three general stores, where people could buy almost anything they needed. One of these stores even had a small drug store inside.
- The community also had a barber shop for haircuts.
- An ice house kept food and drinks cold before refrigerators were common.
- A cafe served meals and snacks.
- There was even a movie theater, which was a big deal for entertainment back then!
Community Groups and Churches
Besides businesses, Dudenville had places where people gathered.
- There was an IOOF lodge, which was a social club where people met and helped each other.
- A group called the Anti-Horse Thief Association also had a local chapter. This group worked to prevent horse theft, which was a serious problem in the past.
- People also attended church. There were congregations for both the Brethren and Methodist churches.
Schools and Changes Over Time
Like many small communities, Dudenville saw its school and businesses close as times changed.
The Unity Schoolhouse
The community's one-room school was called Unity. It was located about a mile west of the main stores. This school served the children of Dudenville for many years. However, in 1960, the local school district joined with the Golden City R-3 district. The Unity school then closed its doors for good in 1963.
Businesses Close Down
The last general store in Dudenville closed in 1969. The building, which was made of cinder blocks, is now used as someone's home.
The Churches Today
While the Brethren Church is no longer active, the Methodist congregation continued to meet weekly until 2003. The building where they met is still standing today.
The Dudenville Cemetery
In the northern part of Dudenville, there is a large cemetery. This cemetery has been used for burials for a very long time, possibly since the community first began. In 1925, a metal gate was put up at the main entrance to the cemetery. You can still see the date "1925" clearly marked on this gate.
