MCP Directory

18 •2019 McDonald County Guide Southwest City located in the very southwest of the county, bordering Arkansas and Oklahoma, received its name from its location. It is the only tri-cornered part of the state on dry land, as all other Missouri state bound- aries are established by rivers and streams. Home to 40 businesses, including Simmons, a poultry processing plant that employs hundreds of people, Southwest City stands as a progressive and growing community in McDonald county. Early History The first settlement goes back to 1842, but the town did not receive its official name until 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 until it became a cross- roads for travelers and a social gathering for drummers, bootleggers and land specula- tors. Businesses Southwest city is both a great place to live and work. As a thriving economy in manufacturing, construction, educational services and Health Care and food services making, Southwest City is a place for employment. With 96.4% of the population employed, 39.2% in Production, Transportation and Materials moving, and only 3.6% unemployed, this city is a place to consider. Southwest City is home to family fun by Kimberly Marquez McDonald County Directory Old Timer's Day In May of 1978, the Com- mercial Club began Old Tim- er's Day, following the retire- ment of John Poynor, a long time resident that had owned and operated the Phillips 66 Ser- vice Station from 1927 to 1977. The Poynors' became the first Mr. & Mrs. "Old Timers". Today, every year since the first parade, the Commercial Club honors folks who have been members of the community and contributed to the Southwest City area over the years. Those honored include business owners, local farmers, community leaders and volunteers. Saturday, May 4, 2019 2018 Old Timer's Day Honorees Dan and Lois Frye Southwest Cy

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