National Missouri Day

National Missouri Day is observed on January 4. This day recognizes the 24th state to join the United States and celebrates the diverse culture, geography, and history of the Show-Me State. From the bustling metropolitan areas of St. Louis and Kansas City to the rugged beauty of the Ozark Mountains, the day serves as a tribute to the state’s enduring influence on American life.

History of National Missouri Day

The origins of celebrating this state can be traced back to 1915 when Anna Lee Brosius Korn, a teacher from Trenton, successfully campaigned to establish an official Missouri Day. She intended for the day to foster a sense of pride in the state’s achievements and to educate students about its unique heritage. While the state-legislated holiday is traditionally held on the third Wednesday of October, the specific designation of National Missouri Day on January 4 was established more recently by the National Day Calendar to honor the states in the order they joined the Union.

Missouri officially became part of the United States on August 10, 1821, following the Missouri Compromise. This legislative agreement allowed Missouri to enter as a slave state while Maine was admitted as a free state, a pivotal moment in the national debate over slavery. Throughout the 19th century, the state became known as the “Gateway to the West,” serving as the primary jumping-off point for pioneers heading toward the Pacific on the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California Trails.

Why is National Missouri Day important?

Missouri plays a significant role in the nation’s economic and cultural identity through its central location and diverse industries. The state is a major hub for agriculture, aerospace, and beer brewing, housing the headquarters of some of the world’s largest companies. Its geography, dominated by the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, has historically facilitated trade and transportation, making it a vital piece of the American infrastructure. The state also boasts a rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of ragtime and home to influential jazz and blues scenes.

The state has produced numerous figures who have shaped global culture and politics. Icons such as Mark Twain, Walt Disney, and President Harry S. Truman all hailed from Missouri, contributing to literature, entertainment, and governance. Celebrating this day allows for a reflection on these contributions and the state’s transformation from a frontier territory into a modern industrial power. It highlights the resilience of a region that has navigated complex social shifts while maintaining a distinct Midwestern character.

• It commemorates Missouri’s status as the 24th state admitted to the Union.
• The day celebrates the state’s historical role in westward expansion.
• It recognizes the cultural contributions of Missouri-born writers and artists.
• The observance highlights the importance of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers.
• It honors the innovative spirit of the state’s agricultural and industrial sectors.

How to Celebrate National Missouri Day

Exploring the state’s historical landmarks is an excellent way to mark the occasion. Visitors can tour the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which stands as a monument to the pioneers who settled the American West. Learning about the Pony Express in St. Joseph or visiting the childhood home of Mark Twain in Hannibal provides a deeper connection to the 19th-century history of the region. Many people also take the opportunity to sample authentic Kansas City-style barbecue or visit the various museums dedicated to the state’s involvement in the Civil War.

Supporting local Missouri businesses and artisans is another practical way to participate in the celebration. Buying products made within the state or visiting a local brewery helps sustain the regional economy. Sharing facts about the state’s unique features, such as its extensive cave systems or its diverse wildlife in the Ozarks, can raise awareness of Missouri’s natural beauty. Whether by planning a trip to a state park or simply reading about the state’s legislative history, the day encourages a focus on what makes the Show-Me State unique.

• Visit the Gateway Arch or the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library.
• Enjoy a meal of traditional Kansas City-style barbecue at a local restaurant.
• Read a classic novel by Missouri native Mark Twain or a biography of Walt Disney.
• Share interesting facts about Missouri’s state symbols and history on social media.
• Plan a hiking trip to explore the trails and caves of the Ozark Mountains.

National Missouri Day Dates Table