On Show Me Missourah this week, Scott traveled to Stone County, nestled in the Ozark hills of southwest Missouri, to talk with local guests about the people and history that shaped this scenic region.
Scott is joined by Commissioner Gordon Weathers, local historian Larry Sifford, Farm Bureau member Tony Delong and Commissioner Hank Smythe.
Formed on February 10, 1851, and named for William Stone, an English pioneer and Taney County judge, Stone County spans 511 square miles of rugged beauty. Early settlers included Delaware Indians and James Yocum, a French trader who established one of the first posts at the junction of the White and James Rivers.
During the Civil War, Stone County leaned Union, forming local militias to protect residents amid raids and unrest. After the war, the railroad brought growth and helped transform the area, leading to the discovery of Marvel Cave—which later became the heart of Silver Dollar City.
Stone County also holds a unique place in history as the site of the nation’s last public execution, carried out in Galena in 1937.
From frontier days and Civil War turmoil to its tourism legacy, Stone County’s story is one of perseverance and transformation.
Listen to the full episode of Show Me Missourah: Stone County to learn more.