Smallett, Missouri facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Smallett, Missouri
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Community
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 Smallett, Missouri
Location in Missouri
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| Country | U. S. A. |
| State | Missouri |
| County | Douglas County |
| Elevation | 330 m (1,070 ft) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (CST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Zip Code |
65750 (historical)
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| GNIS feature ID | 758446 |
Smallett is a small, quiet community in southern Douglas County, Missouri, United States. It's not a city or town with its own government, but rather an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that are part of the larger county. Smallett is located about nine miles south of the town of Ava. You can find it along Missouri Supplemental Route A.
Smallett once had its own post office from 1888 until 1967. Its old ZIP code was 65750. Today, people in Smallett get their mail from the post office in Ava. There are different stories about how Smallett got its name. Some people say it was named after James Small, who was the first postmaster. Others believe the name honors a different early settler in the area.
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Exploring Smallett's Location
Smallett is nestled in a scenic part of Missouri. It sits on the south bank of the South Spring Creek. This creek flows about three miles north of the border between Douglas County and Ozark County.
How High is Smallett?
The community of Smallett is located at an elevation of about 1,056 feet (322 m) (around 322 meters) above sea level. This means it's quite a bit higher than many places.
Nearby High Points
There are even higher spots close to Smallett. For example, a lookout tower near Squires, about five miles to the east, is much higher. It stands at an elevation of 1,517 ft (462 m) (about 462 meters). To the south, in Ozark County, you'll find the Haden Bald area. This part of the Mark Twain National Forest rises to around 1,460 ft (450 m) (about 445 meters). These higher elevations offer great views of the surrounding landscape.
Life in an Unincorporated Community
Living in an unincorporated community like Smallett is different from living in a city. Cities have their own mayors, police departments, and city councils. Unincorporated communities do not.
How Smallett is Governed
Instead of a city government, Smallett is governed by Douglas County. The county government handles things like roads, law enforcement, and other public services for the community. This means that decisions affecting Smallett are made at the county level.
Community Services
Even without a city government, residents of Smallett still have access to important services. These services are provided by Douglas County or nearby towns like Ava. This includes things like schools, emergency services, and mail delivery.
The History of Smallett
Smallett has a long history, dating back to the late 1800s. The establishment of its post office in 1888 was an important event.
Why Post Offices Were Important
In the past, post offices were vital for communities. They were not just for sending letters. They were often central gathering places. People would visit the post office to get news and connect with others. Having a post office meant a community was growing and important.
Smallett's Post Office Era
The Smallett post office served the community for nearly 80 years. It was a key part of daily life for residents. When it closed in 1967, it marked a change in how the community received its mail. Now, mail is handled by the larger post office in Ava.
Nature Around Smallett
The area around Smallett is known for its beautiful natural environment. The South Spring Creek is a key feature of the landscape.
The Importance of South Spring Creek
Creeks and rivers are very important for the environment. They provide water for plants and animals. They also help shape the land over time. South Spring Creek likely plays a role in the local ecosystem around Smallett.
Mark Twain National Forest
Just south of Smallett is a part of the Mark Twain National Forest. This large forest covers many parts of Missouri. It is a place where people can enjoy nature. It offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and observing wildlife. National forests help protect natural habitats and resources.
