Lickskillet, Missouri facts for kids

Lickskillet was once a small town in Putnam County, located in the U.S. state of Missouri. Today, it is known as an extinct town, which means it no longer exists as a populated place. It's often called a "ghost town" because its residents have all moved away, leaving behind little or no trace of the community.

What is a Ghost Town?

A ghost town is a place that used to be a town or city but is now mostly empty. People leave these towns for many reasons. Sometimes, a local industry, like a mine or a factory, closes down. Other times, natural disasters or changes in transportation routes can make a town less important. When people move away, buildings might fall apart, and the town becomes quiet and deserted.

Lickskillet's Past

Lickskillet had another name during its history: Mapleton. This was a common practice for small settlements.

The Mapleton Name

The name "Mapleton" was used for a time, and it's how the town's post office was known. This post office was very important for the community. It allowed people to send and receive letters and packages.

Post Office and School

The Mapleton post office first opened in 1891. It served the people of Lickskillet and the surrounding area for many years. However, it eventually closed down in 1909. This often happens when a town starts to shrink. There was also a school in the area called the Mapleton School. Schools are vital for any community, as they educate the children. The Mapleton School is also no longer in operation today.

Where was Lickskillet Located?

Lickskillet was situated in Putnam County, Missouri. This county is in the northern part of Missouri, near the border with Iowa. Like many small towns in rural areas, Lickskillet eventually faded away as people moved to larger cities or new opportunities.