Rat, Missouri facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rat, Missouri
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Unincorporated community
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 Rat, Missouri
Location in Missouri
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| Country | United States |
| State | Missouri |
| County | Shannon |
| Township | Moore |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area code(s) | 573 |
| GNIS feature ID | 751809 |
Rat is a small, unincorporated community located in the state of Missouri, United States. It is found in the northeastern part of Shannon County. The community is very close to a stream called Big Creek. It is about six miles south-southwest of the town of Bunker.
The Story Behind the Name: Rat, Missouri
Have you ever wondered how towns get their names? For the community of Rat, Missouri, the story is quite unusual! A post office was first opened here in 1898. It served the local people for many years.
However, the townspeople originally wanted a different name: "Buckshorn". But the postal authorities, who decide on official names, said no. As a way to show they weren't happy, the residents chose the name "Rat" instead!
The post office continued to operate under this memorable name until 1954, when it finally closed. Today, Rat, Missouri, is still known for having one of the most unique and surprising place names in the United States.
