Audrain County, MO FAQs
How Many Sinkholes Are There In Audrain County, MO?
There are three sinkholes in the northwest corner of Audrain County, Missouri. The land around the sinkholes is made of old rock layers, including limestone and different kinds of soil. The region also has a lot of thick, heavy dirt and rocks left over from many past ice ages.
What Area In Missouri Has The Largest, Deepest, And Most Sinkholes?
Missouri has 16,000 recorded sinkholes, Tennessee hosts more than 54,000, and Florida has approximately 12,000.
The largest documented sinkhole in Missouri spans around 700 acres and is located in western Boone County. However, the deepest sinkhole in the state, known as Slaughter Sink, measuring about 175 feet deep and covering an area of three to four acres, is located in Phelps County.
Furthermore, Perry County, Missouri, is home to over 300 sinkholes and boasts some of the longest caves in the state.
What Is Audrain County, MO Famous For?
Audrain County boasts rich and fertile land, making it a leading agricultural county in the state of Missouri. Its primary crops include soybeans, grain sorghum, corn, and wheat.
Though once known for breeding saddle horses and mules on a national level, the county now focuses mainly on producing hogs and cattle.
Besides its thriving agriculture, Audrain County is home to several popular attractions, including Green Estate Park, Audrain County Historical Museum, Heritage Days Festival, Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, and more.
These attractions promise to make your stay in Audrain County a memorable one.
Are There Warning Signs For Sinkholes?
In Audrain County, including cities such as Mexico, Vandalia, and Benton City, sinkholes can pose a serious threat.
While the sudden appearance of depression in the ground is a clear indicator of a sinkhole, there are other less obvious warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored, such as:
- soft or spongy spots
- new depressions in the ground
- cracks in walls and ceilings or floors
- water pooling around the home
- sagging or bulging floors
- tilting outdoor elements
What is the history of Audrain County, MO and what are its notable landmarks?
History of Audrain County, MO
- located in the central part of the state of Missouri, United States
- officially established on December 17, 1836
- named after James H. Audrain, a state legislator
- The county’s history is closely tied to the exploration, settlement, and development of the American frontier.
- originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Shawnee
- European settlers, primarily of German and English descent, began arriving in the early 19th century. The county’s history includes the establishment of towns, the growth of agriculture and industry, and its involvement in the American Civil War.
- During the Civil War, Audrain County experienced both Union and Confederate sympathies. It witnessed military activities, including skirmishes and raids. Notable events in the county include the Battle of Centralia in September 1864, which resulted in a Confederate victory.
Notable landmarks in Audrain County, Missouri, include:
- Mexico: The county seat and largest city in Audrain County, Mexico has a rich history. Founded in 1836, the city played a significant role in the county’s development and served as a hub for trade and transportation.
- Presser Performing Arts Center: Located in Mexico, the Presser Performing Arts Center is a historic theater that has been hosting performances and cultural events since its construction in 1925. It remains a focal point for the arts in the county.
- Stribling-Kendrick House: This historic house, located in Mexico, was built in the 1860s and is an example of Greek Revival architecture. It has been restored and preserved as a museum, providing a glimpse into the county’s past.
- Graceland Museum: Housed in a former Methodist Church in Mexico, the Graceland Museum showcases the history and culture of Audrain County. It exhibits artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the county’s heritage.
- Audrain County Courthouse: The historic courthouse in Mexico is an architectural landmark. Built in 1954, it features Art Deco style and serves as the county’s judicial center.
What are the recreational activities available in Audrain County, MO?
Here are some popular options:
- Parks and Outdoor Recreation: Audrain County has several parks and outdoor spaces where visitors can enjoy recreational activities. Green Estate Park in Mexico offers walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Other parks in the county provide opportunities for sports, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors.
- Fishing and Hunting: The county’s lakes, rivers, and streams provide opportunities for fishing and hunting enthusiasts. Anglers can cast their lines for bass, catfish, crappie, and other fish species in Audrain County’s waterways. Hunting enthusiasts can pursue game such as deer, turkey, and small game in designated hunting areas.
- Golf: Audrain County is home to golf courses that cater to players of different skill levels. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at courses like Arthur Hills Golf Course in Mexico and Vandalia Country Club in Vandalia.
- Sports and Recreation Centers: The county offers sports and recreation centers where residents can engage in various activities. The Mexico Sports Complex and the Vandalia Area Fairgrounds have facilities for sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, and tennis.
- Cultural and Arts Activities: Audrain County promotes cultural and arts activities through local organizations and events. The Presser Performing Arts Center in Mexico hosts live performances, concerts, and theater productions. The county also holds art exhibits, craft shows, and cultural festivals throughout the year.
- Historical Exploration: Exploring the county’s history can be a recreational activity in itself. Visitors can discover the historic landmarks, museums, and heritage sites in Audrain County, such as the Stribling-Kendrick House and the Graceland Museum in Mexico. These attractions offer insights into the county’s past and cultural heritage.
