Cities and Towns in Ralls County, Missouri

Founded in 1821, Ralls County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Ralls County was formed from Pike County. The city of New London is the county seat. With FIPS code of 173, Ralls County has a population of 10,361 and area of 471 square miles (1,220 km²).

List of all cities in Ralls County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Center, MO 63436 573
Green Lawn, MO 63462 573
Madisonville, MO 63436 573
New London, MO 63459 573
Perry, MO 63462 573
Salt River, MO 63462 573
Saverton, MO 63467 573

Major Cities and Towns in Ralls County, Missouri

New London

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.04 sq mi
  • Population: 800 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 63459
  • Latitude: 39.4447° N
  • Longitude: 91.5357° W

Location and History

New London, located in the western part of Ralls County, Missouri, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in the early 19th century. The town was established in 1819 and was named for New London, Connecticut, where many early settlers had come from. The town quickly became a regional hub for farming and commerce, benefiting from its location along the Mississippi River. In the 19th century, the town played a role in riverboat trade, and its economy was based primarily on agriculture, particularly corn and tobacco. Over time, New London grew into a center for education, retail, and industry within Ralls County. The town also became known for its proximity to several state parks and recreational areas, making it a destination for outdoor activities. Despite its small size, New London retains much of its historical charm and is a central part of the local economy, known for its agricultural roots and tight-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

New London is served by the Ralls County R-II School District, which includes the New London Elementary School and Ralls County R-II High School. The schools provide a strong academic foundation and are known for their community involvement and extracurricular programs. New London is home to several historical landmarks, including the historic Ralls County Courthouse, which dates back to the 19th century. The courthouse is a focal point of the town’s downtown area, and the nearby New London City Park offers recreational opportunities such as walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The park is a gathering spot for community events and is a key feature of New London’s local culture. New London is also close to the Mark Twain State Park and the Mark Twain Lake, which provide outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. These natural attractions, combined with the town’s historical landmarks, make New London a great blend of culture, education, and outdoor living.

Perry

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.74 sq mi
  • Population: 380 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 63462
  • Latitude: 39.4976° N
  • Longitude: 91.4891° W

Location and History

Perry, located in the eastern part of Ralls County, Missouri, is a small town with a deep historical legacy. The town was established in the early 19th century, around 1820, and was named after the famous naval hero, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, known for his victory at the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Perry grew as an agricultural community and became known for its fertile land, which was ideal for growing corn and other crops. As with many small towns in Missouri, Perry’s population peaked in the mid-20th century and has since experienced a gradual decline. However, the town has preserved much of its historic charm and rural atmosphere. The area around Perry is characterized by gently rolling hills, making it a scenic spot in the county. Though small, the town retains a strong sense of community, with many local families having lived in the area for generations. Today, Perry’s economy is still based on agriculture, with residents involved in farming and livestock production.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Perry is served by the Mark Twain R-XVIII School District, which includes Perry School, a small school serving elementary through high school students. The school provides a range of educational opportunities and extracurricular activities, allowing students to participate in sports, music, and community events. Perry has several historic landmarks, including the Perry Methodist Church, a 19th-century building that remains an important community gathering place. The church is an example of the town’s architectural heritage. Perry’s small-town charm is also reflected in its local parks, which offer space for outdoor recreation. The nearby Mark Twain Lake, just a short drive away, provides boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Perry’s location near the river and the nearby state parks offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, which draw tourists to the area. The town celebrates its historical roots and agricultural heritage with local events, such as the annual Perry Picnic, which features local foods, crafts, and games.

Hannibal (Partial)

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 14.3 sq mi (note: Hannibal spans both Ralls and Marion Counties)
  • Population: 17,000 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 63401
  • Latitude: 39.7085° N
  • Longitude: 91.4039° W

Location and History

Hannibal is one of the most well-known cities in Missouri, though a portion of the city lies within Ralls County. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Hannibal is famously the boyhood home of author Mark Twain, the pen name of Samuel Clemens. The town was first settled in 1819 and quickly became an important riverport for trade and transportation. It gained prominence during the 19th century as a major stop for steamboats traveling along the Mississippi River, and it was integral to the regional economy. Hannibal’s historic downtown area retains much of its 19th-century charm, with many buildings reflecting the city’s riverfront history. The town’s close connection to Mark Twain has also made it a literary destination, with numerous museums, historic sites, and festivals celebrating the author’s life and works. Hannibal’s history is intertwined with both the expansion of the United States and the culture of the river, and it continues to honor its past while offering modern amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hannibal is served by the Hannibal Public School District, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Hannibal High School. The district is known for its focus on academics and extracurricular activities, particularly in the areas of music and sports. Hannibal High School has a long tradition of excellence in athletics, and the school’s drama programs are renowned. The city’s landmarks include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, which is a popular tourist attraction that preserves the home where Twain grew up, along with other nearby sites related to his life. The nearby Mississippi Riverfront features beautiful walking trails, parks, and opportunities for riverboat tours. In addition to Mark Twain-related sites, Hannibal boasts the Rockcliffe Mansion, a historic home with expansive views of the river, and the beautiful Riverview Park, which offers scenic overlooks and is the site of many local events and festivals. The city also hosts the annual National Tom Sawyer Days, a celebration of Twain’s famous characters. These landmarks and the city’s rich literary history continue to attract visitors from all over the world.