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Wayne County is located in the southeastern part of Missouri. It covers an area of over 765 square miles and is home to a rich history that includes fascinating facts. Here are seven interesting facts about the county's history.
1. Wayne County was established on December 11, 1818. At that time, it was part of the Missouri Territory, which was established in 1812. The county was named after Revolutionary War General "Mad" Anthony Wayne, who was known for his leadership in various battles.
2. During the Civil War, Wayne County was split in half. The northern half was primarily made up of Union sympathizers, while the southern half was pro-Confederate. This divide led to several small skirmishes and raids throughout the county.
3. The Wayne County Courthouse was built in 1901 and is still in use today. It was designed by the same architect who designed Missouri's state capitol building, George Barnett.
4. In the early 20th century, Wayne County was home to several significant lead mines. These mines were an essential part of the county's economy for many years.
5. Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, spent time in Wayne County as a young man. He worked as a seasonal hand on a dairy farm in the area and would often attend local fairs and sales.
6. Wayne County is home to the largest man-made lake in Missouri, Lake Wappapello. The lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the early 1940s as part of a flood prevention project.
7. The largest earthquake in the history of Missouri was centered in Wayne County. The quake, which occurred in 1811, had a magnitude of 8.0 and was felt as far away as Washington D.C. It caused significant damage to structures in the area and created large fissures in the ground.
In conclusion, Wayne County has a rich and varied history that includes Civil War battles, lead mines, famous visitors, and natural disasters. These unique aspects make the county an exciting place to explore for those interested in history or visiting the Southeastern part of Missouri.
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