Roark, Missouri facts for kids

Roark (/rɔːrk/) was once a small town in Barry County, Missouri, in the U.S. state of Missouri. Today, it's known as an extinct town or a ghost town. This means it used to be a lively place, but now it's no longer inhabited.

What Was Roark?

Roark was a small community that existed for a few decades. It was located in Barry County, which is in the southwestern part of Missouri. Like many small towns, it likely served the local farming families and travelers in the area.

The Roark Post Office

A very important part of any community back then was its post office. Roark had its own post office, which opened in 1888. This office helped people send and receive letters and packages. It was a key connection to the outside world.

When Did the Post Office Close?

The post office in Roark stayed open for many years. However, it eventually closed its doors in 1911. When a post office closes, it often means that fewer people live in the area, or they have moved away.

How Roark Got Its Name

The community of Roark was named after a local family. The Roark family lived in the area and were likely important members of the early settlement. Naming a town after a founding family was a common practice in the past.

Why Do Towns Become Extinct?

Many small towns, like Roark, became ghost towns over time. This can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, new roads or railroads bypass a town, making it harder for businesses to thrive. Other times, people move away to find better jobs or opportunities in bigger cities.