Cities and Towns in Barry County, Missouri

Founded in 1835, Barry County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Barry County was formed from Greene County. The city of Cassville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Barry County has a population of 34,712 and area of 779 square miles (2,018 km²).

List of all cities in Barry County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Butterfield, MO	65625	417
Butterfld, MO	65623	417
Cassville, MO	65623	417
	65625	417
Eagle Rock, MO	65641	417
Exeter, MO	65647	417
Golden, MO	65658	417
Monett, MO	65708	417
Purdy, MO	65734	417
Seligman, MO	65745	417
Shell Knob, MO	65747	417
Viola, MO	65747	417
Washburn, MO	65772	417
Wheaton, MO	64874	417

Major Cities and Towns in Barry County, Missouri

Cassville

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.35 square miles
• Population: About 3,300 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 65625
• Latitude: 36.6778° N
• Longitude: -93.8714° W

Location and History

Cassville, the county seat of Barry County, is located in the Ozarks region of southwestern Missouri, near Roaring River State Park. Founded in 1845, Cassville became a key location due to its central position in the county, and it was named after Lewis Cass, a prominent politician and U.S. senator. During the Civil War, the town experienced significant turmoil as it changed hands multiple times between Union and Confederate forces, leaving a lasting historical legacy. Cassville has developed as a small but vibrant community, closely tied to its natural surroundings and outdoor recreation opportunities. The economy has traditionally revolved around agriculture, but tourism to the nearby state park and the Ozark region also plays a significant role.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cassville is served by the Cassville R-IV School District, which includes Cassville High School, known for its academics and athletic achievements. Major landmarks include the historic Barry County Courthouse, a beautiful Classical Revival structure built in 1913. Roaring River State Park is a major attraction for both locals and visitors, offering trout fishing, hiking trails, and camping. The Cassville City Park provides additional recreational facilities, hosting local festivals and events that foster community spirit and celebrate the town’s Ozarks heritage.

Monett

Overview

• Area: Approximately 8.46 square miles
• Population: About 9,000 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 65708
• Latitude: 36.9287° N
• Longitude: -93.9279° W

Location and History

Monett, the largest city in Barry County, is located in the northeastern part of the county, extending into neighboring Lawrence County. Established in the late 19th century, Monett was originally a railway town known as Plymouth Junction before being renamed Monett after a railroad official. The city rapidly developed as a transportation and commercial center, with the railroad supporting a variety of industries. Over the years, Monett has diversified its economy with manufacturing, agriculture, and retail businesses. The city prides itself on its vibrant community and has embraced growth while maintaining its rich history as a railway hub.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Monett is served by the Monett R-I School District, with Monett High School offering a range of academic and extracurricular programs. Prominent landmarks include Monett City Park, which hosts the popular Ozark Festival Orchestra concerts and Monett’s annual celebration, the Monett Water Thrash. The Monett Museum provides insights into the city’s railway history and showcases memorabilia from the town’s early days. The historic Main Street area features charming architecture, with local shops and restaurants that contribute to Monett’s unique small-town charm and community spirit.

Seligman

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.37 square miles
• Population: Around 850 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 65745
• Latitude: 36.5225° N
• Longitude: -93.9411° W

Location and History

Seligman is located near the Arkansas border in southwestern Barry County, known for its rural atmosphere and close proximity to the Ozark National Forest. Founded in the 1880s, Seligman was initially a small railway town, named after financier Joseph Seligman. The arrival of the railroad facilitated growth, with Seligman becoming a critical stop for transporting goods between Missouri and Arkansas. Although the railroad’s influence has waned, Seligman remains a gateway to outdoor recreation, with easy access to the Ozark mountains and trails. The community’s economy relies on a mix of agriculture, small businesses, and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Seligman is part of the Southwest R-V School District, with schools located in nearby Washburn. Major landmarks include the Seligman Veterans Memorial, honoring local service members, and Butler Hollow, a popular area for hiking and wildlife observation. The city park offers recreational facilities, and local events, like the annual Seligman Days Festival, bring residents together to celebrate with food, music, and games. Seligman’s scenic landscape and small-town feel make it a pleasant community for residents and visitors.

Purdy

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.61 square miles
• Population: Around 1,100 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 65734
• Latitude: 36.8192° N
• Longitude: -93.9169° W

Location and History

Purdy is a small town located northeast of Cassville in central Barry County. Founded in the late 19th century, Purdy developed as an agricultural community, with much of the surrounding area devoted to farming, particularly cattle and poultry. The town was named after the Purdy family, who were early settlers in the region. Throughout its history, Purdy has remained a tightly-knit community, known for its focus on family farming and rural traditions. The town retains its rustic charm, with many of its buildings and establishments reflecting its agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Purdy is served by the Purdy R-II School District, which includes Purdy High School and Elementary School, known for their close community involvement and strong educational programs. Notable landmarks include the Purdy Community Center, where residents gather for social events and celebrations. The town also hosts the Purdy Fall Festival, which celebrates local crafts, foods, and traditions. Purdy City Park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities, while local farms contribute to the town’s economy and sense of rural identity, preserving Purdy’s heritage as an agricultural town.

Wheaton

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.57 square miles
• Population: Around 700 (latest estimate)
• Zip Codes: 64874
• Latitude: 36.7622° N
• Longitude: -94.0563° W

Location and History

Wheaton is located in northwestern Barry County, near the county’s border with Newton County. Established in the late 19th century, Wheaton grew as a small agricultural town, with many early settlers drawn to the fertile land. The town was named after wheat fields that dominated the area, reflecting its agricultural roots. Though modest in size, Wheaton has maintained a strong sense of community and connection to the land, with family-owned farms still prominent in the local economy. The town’s quiet atmosphere and pastoral landscape make it a typical rural Missouri community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wheaton is served by the Wheaton R-III School District, which includes Wheaton High School and Elementary School, known for providing quality education in a supportive environment. Key landmarks include the Wheaton City Park, which hosts the Wheaton BBQ Festival each year, bringing residents and visitors together for food, games, and entertainment. The historic Wheaton Depot Museum showcases artifacts from the town’s early days as a railway stop, preserving its rich heritage. Wheaton also has access to nearby outdoor recreation, with areas ideal for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Barry County.