Cities and Towns in Barton County, Missouri
Founded in 1855, Barton County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Barton County was formed from Jasper County. The city of Lamar is the county seat. With FIPS code of 11, Barton County has a population of 11,658 and area of 594 square miles (1,538 km²).
List of all cities in Barton County, MO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Asbury, MO | 64832 | 417 |
| Golden City, MO | 64748 | 417 |
| Iantha, MO | 64759 | 417 |
| Irwin, MO | 64759 | 417 |
| Lamar, MO | 64759 | 417 |
| Lamar, MO | 64766 | 417 |
| Liberal, MO | 64762 | 417 |
| Milford, MO | 64766 | 417 |
| Mindenmines, MO | 64769 | 417 |
Major Cities and Towns in Barton County, Missouri
Lamar
Overview
- Area: Approximately 5.10 square miles
- Population: About 4,500 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 64759
- Latitude: 37.4959° N
- Longitude: -94.2761° W
Location and History
Lamar, the county seat of Barton County, is located in southwestern Missouri, near the Kansas border. Established in 1856, Lamar is renowned as the birthplace of President Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. The town grew around its rich agricultural landscape and transportation routes that connected it to surrounding areas. Lamar saw development with the arrival of the railroad, which boosted commerce and provided local farmers with access to larger markets. Though small, Lamar has played an outsized role in Missouri’s history, maintaining its unique heritage while evolving with modern advancements. Today, the city balances its historical significance with a strong community spirit, supported by local businesses, schools, and recreational areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Lamar R-I School District serves the city, with Lamar High School recognized for its academic programs and athletic achievements, particularly in football. Key landmarks include the Harry S. Truman Birthplace State Historic Site, which preserves the former president’s birthplace and attracts history enthusiasts. Lamar is also home to the Barton County Courthouse, a grand building from the early 20th century, and the Lamar City Park, which provides green space for outdoor activities and community events. The annual Lamar Free Fair is a highlight, celebrating local culture and bringing together residents for food, games, and entertainment.
Liberal
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.67 square miles
- Population: Around 750 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 64762
- Latitude: 37.5589° N
- Longitude: -94.5197° W
Location and History
Liberal is a small town in western Barton County, founded in 1880 by freethinker George Walser as an experiment in creating a town free from religious influence, making it one of the few communities of its kind. Originally established as a secular enclave, Liberal drew attention from both supporters and critics, with many settlers joining to experience a community organized around scientific and rationalist principles. However, religious organizations eventually settled nearby, leading to a unique dynamic in the town’s history. Over time, Liberal became a traditional Missouri town, focusing on agriculture and small businesses. Today, it retains a distinctive heritage while embracing its rural character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Liberal is served by the Liberal R-II School District, with Liberal High School providing educational programs and extracurricular activities for the community. Notable landmarks include the Liberal City Hall, a historical building that represents the town’s unique origins. The town also features a Veterans Memorial to honor local service members. Each year, Liberal hosts a fall festival that celebrates its unusual founding, with events that engage the community and attract visitors interested in the town’s history. The town park provides space for recreation, and local historical markers share the story of Liberal’s secular beginnings.
Golden City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.96 square miles
- Population: About 750 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 64748
- Latitude: 37.3936° N
- Longitude: -94.0902° W
Location and History
Golden City, located in the northeastern part of Barton County, was established in the late 19th century. The town was named after its founders’ aspirations for prosperity, hoping it would become a “golden” city of opportunity. Primarily an agricultural community, Golden City became known for producing various crops and livestock, benefiting from the region’s fertile soil. The arrival of the railroad further spurred economic growth by allowing local farmers and merchants to connect to broader markets. Although small, Golden City has maintained its close-knit, rural character and remains an important part of Barton County’s agricultural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Golden City is part of the Golden City R-III School District, which includes Golden City High School, noted for its dedicated faculty and local sports involvement. The town’s prominent landmarks include the Golden City City Park, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and facilities for community events. Another key attraction is the annual Golden Harvest Days festival, which celebrates the region’s agricultural roots with local produce, crafts, and family-friendly activities. The historic buildings in the town center, with their classic early-20th-century architecture, add to Golden City’s charming small-town feel.
Mindenmines
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.50 square miles
- Population: Around 350 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 64769
- Latitude: 37.4706° N
- Longitude: -94.5989° W
Location and History
Mindenmines is a small town in western Barton County, near the Kansas state line. Established in the 1880s, Mindenmines was originally a mining town, as its name suggests, with coal mining as the primary industry that attracted workers and their families. At its height, Mindenmines was a bustling community, with mining operations providing employment and shaping the town’s economy. However, as the mining industry declined in the mid-20th century, the town’s population decreased, and Mindenmines transformed into a quiet, rural community. Today, it is known for its close community ties and scenic countryside.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mindenmines students attend schools in the nearby Liberal R-II School District. Key landmarks include remnants of the mining operations, such as old shafts and equipment, which serve as historical markers of the town’s past. The town park provides a recreational area, while historical markers commemorate the coal mining era. Mindenmines also holds small local events to celebrate its heritage, bringing residents together to honor the hardworking miners who once contributed to the town’s prosperity.
