Palmyra, Missouri: A Historic Gem in Marion County
History of Palmyra
Palmyra, Missouri, is a city rich in history and charm, located in the northeastern part of the state. Known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and significant role in Missouri’s early statehood, Palmyra offers a glimpse into the past while embracing the present.
- Founded in 1819, making it one of the oldest towns in Missouri.
- Named after the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria, reflecting the classical education of its founders.
- Became the county seat of Marion County in 1827.
- Played a significant role in the Mormon War of 1838.
- Experienced growth and prosperity in the mid-19th century due to its location on important trade routes.
- Survived the Civil War relatively unscathed, preserving much of its antebellum architecture.
- Home to Palmyra Massacre site, a significant event during the Civil War.
- Continues to preserve its historic heritage while adapting to modern times.
Neighborhoods of Palmyra
While Palmyra is a small city, it has distinct areas that contribute to its character:
- Historic Downtown: The heart of Palmyra, featuring well-preserved 19th-century buildings and local businesses.
- Residential Historic District: An area of historic homes, many dating back to the mid-19th century.
- West End: A primarily residential area with a mix of older and newer homes.
- East Palmyra: Another residential area, including some newer developments.
- South Side: A mix of residential and light commercial areas.
- North Palmyra: Includes some of the city’s parks and newer residential developments.
Notable Attractions
Palmyra offers several attractions that appeal to history buffs and visitors alike:
- Marion County Courthouse: A beautiful example of 19th-century architecture, still in use today.
- Gardner House Museum: A restored 1830s home showcasing period furnishings and local history.
- Palmyra Massacre Site: A historical marker commemorating a significant Civil War event.
- Flower City Park: The city’s largest park, offering recreational facilities and hosting community events.
- Historic Walking Tour: A self-guided tour of Palmyra’s many historic buildings and sites.
- Palmyra Golf Course: A 9-hole public golf course for sports enthusiasts.
- B.D. Hunter Recreational Complex: Offering various sports facilities and walking trails.
Statistical Data
Key statistics about Palmyra, Missouri:
- Population: Approximately 3,600 residents as of the 2020 census.
- Land Area: About 2.64 square miles (6.84 km²).
- Elevation: 640 feet (195 m) above sea level.
- Median Age: Around 38 years old.
- Median Household Income: Approximately $52,000 (as of recent estimates).
- Education: Served by the Palmyra R-I School District.
- Climate: Humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters.
- Economy: Based on agriculture, small businesses, and light industry.
- Distance from Major Cities: About 15 miles southwest of Quincy, Illinois, and 100 miles north of St. Louis.
List of Things to Do in Palmyra
1. Take a self-guided walking tour of the Historic Downtown area.
2. Visit the Marion County Courthouse and admire its architecture.
3. Explore the Gardner House Museum to learn about local history.
4. Pay respects at the Palmyra Massacre Site historical marker.
5. Enjoy recreational activities at Flower City Park.
6. Play a round of golf at the Palmyra Golf Course.
7. Participate in sports or walking at the B.D. Hunter Recreational Complex.
8. Attend the annual Marion County Fair (typically held in late July/early August).
9. Shop and dine at local businesses in the historic downtown area.
10. Visit the Palmyra Public Library, housed in a historic building.
11. Enjoy fishing at Flower City Lake.
12. Attend community events and festivals throughout the year.
13. Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside.
14. Visit nearby Hannibal for additional Mark Twain-related attractions.
15. Explore the local antique shops for unique finds.
Points of interest near Palmyra
Airports
Churches
- First Assembly of God Church, which is on 310 South Bradley Street, Palmyra.
- Mission Hill Baptist Church, which is on 4653 Business 61, Palmyra.
- United Pentecostal Church, which is on 1210 South Home Street, Palmyra.
- Palmyra United Methodist Church, which is on 1800 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Cornerstone Church of Marion, which is on 414 South Breckenridge Avenue, Palmyra.
Fire Stations
- Palmyra City Fire Department, which is on 407 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Hannibal Fire Department Station #3, which is on 3300 Arapaho Street, Hannibal.
- Hannibal Rural Fire Department, which is on 9250 County Road 418, Hannibal.
- Hannibal Fire Department Administration, which is on 2333 Palmyra Road, Hannibal.
- Hannibal Fire Department Station 2, which is on 1383 30th Street, Hannibal.
Universities
- Hannibal-LaGrange University, which is on 2800 Palmyra Road, Hannibal.
- University of Missouri Extnsn, which is on 100 South Main Street # 201, Palmyra.
- Moberly Area Community College – Hannibal, which is on 190 Shinn Lane, Hannibal.
Secondary Schools
- Palmyra Senior High School, which is on 1703 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Palmyra School Administration, which is on 1703 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Hannibal High School, which is on 4500 McMasters Avenue, Hannibal.
Parks
- Palmyra Parks & Recreation, which is on 1000 West New Street, Palmyra.
- Steyermark Woods Conservation Area, which is on Hannibal.
- palmyra mo parks & recreation, which is on 301 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Gardner Park, which is on U.S. 24, Quincy.
- Marion County Fairgrounds, which is on 1000 West New Street, Palmyra.
- Sesquicentennial Building, which is on 621 Johnston Avenue, Palmyra.
- Bayview Campers Park, which is on 9430 Missouri 168, Palmyra.
Museums
- Jim’s Journey, which is on 4 Melgrove Lane, Hannibal.
Govt offices
- Sheriff’s Office, which is on 210 West Lafayette Street, Palmyra.
- Janes Surveying, Inc., which is on 222 South Main Street, Palmyra.
- Lewis County Extension, which is on 106 East Lafayette Street, Palmyra.
- Marion County Highway Department, which is on Palmyra.
- Marion County Coordinator, which is on 100 South Main Street #4, Palmyra.
- Marion County Sheriff’s Office, which is on 1703 Marion City Road, Palmyra.
- Marion County 9-1-1, which is on 3246 Highway 61, Hannibal.
- Hannibal Conservation Office, which is on 36 West Complex, 8965 U.S. 36 #1, Hannibal.
- Hannibal License Office, which is on 21 Northport Plaza, Hannibal.
Nearby Towns and Suburbs
- North River is 3 miles to the north-east.
- Barkley is 4 miles to the south.
- Huiskamp is 4 miles to the east.
- Woodland is 4 miles to the south-west.
- South River is 4 miles to the north-east.
- Slees Mills is 4 miles to the west.
- Smileyville is 5 miles to the north-west.
- Helton is 5 miles to the east.
- Uva is 5 miles to the south-east.
- Withers Mill is 5 miles to the south-east.
- West Ely is 6 miles to the south.
- Dunsford is 6 miles to the north-east.
- Mungers is 7 miles to the south-east.
- Mark is 7 miles to the north-east.
- White Bear is 7 miles to the south-east.
- Little Union is 7 miles to the west.
- Lamb is 8 miles to the south-east.
