MCP Directory

Stand on a marker in Southwest City, and you'll be in three states at one time. Tucked in the southwest corner of Missouri, this growing community has a rich, diverse culture that residents are very proud of. An old Presbyterian church has been converted into an arts center. The library doubles as an historical resource where you can learn about the city's colorful past. History The first settlement in Southwest City goes back to 1842, but the town did not receive its official name until four years later, in 1846, after a general store opened in the Honey Creek Valley. Because the town was located along the Indian Territory border, it wasn't long before it became a crossroads for travelers on their way to settle in the west. It was also a social gathering place for drummers, bootleggers and land speculators. Thriving businesses Southwest City today is a growing center for commerce. The city is home to some 40 businesses including Simmons, a poultry processing plant that employees hundreds of people. It is a diverse community and considered to be one of the most progressive growing communities in McDonald County. Old Timer's Day Rodeo Southwest City is also home to some fun activities, perhaps the best known being the annual Old Timer's Day Rodeo. In May of 1978, the Commercial Club held their first Old Timer's Day following the retirement of John Poyner, a long time resident of Southwest City who had owned and operated the Phillips 66 service station in town from 1927 to 1977. John and his wife became the first "Mr. and Mrs. Old Timer" and it was the start of an annual tradition that has lasted over 40 years in Southwest City. Today, the Commercial Club still carries on the tradition of honoring folks who have been members of the community and contributed to the growth and character of Southwest City over the span of their lifetime. But the event has taken on a life of its own, wrapping itself around a professional rodeo. The Rodeo, which takes place both Friday and Saturday night, includes all of the events you would want to see in a good old-fashioned rodeo; bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, team roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing, as well as breakaway roping and junior barrel racing. For the youngest competitors, mutton busting and the calf scramble take place each evening. Saturday, the official "Old Timer's Day," kicks off with a fireman's pancake breakfast. The rest of the day is filled with an arts and craft festival, bingo and the annual parade. Entertainment is also provided, including concerts by musical acts and sometimes an event or dance troop. Perennially crowd favorites, such as the Out House Races, the pie eating contest and the "ugly feet" contest are also part of the celebration. All of this leads up to the main event of the evening, the second night of the Old Timer's Day Rodeo. Southwest City is a fun place to visit. And a great place to put down your roots and grow. Where you can be in three states at one time Southwest City: Ad Number: 022422nwr7471 2022 MCDONALD COUNTY DIRECTORY | 17 • Career opportunities • Great pay and benefits We are looking for great team members! Noel Complex 1 Tyson Avenue • Noel, MO 64854 417-475-3181

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