Cities and Towns in Ray County, Missouri

Founded in 1820, Ray County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Ray County was formed from Howard County. The city of Richmond is the county seat. With FIPS code of 177, Ray County has a population of 23,008 and area of 570 square miles (1,476 km²).

List of all cities in Ray County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Camden, MO	64017	816/975
Elmira, MO	64062	816/975
Hardin, MO	64035	660
Henrietta, MO	64036	816/975
Lawson, MO	64062	816/975
Orrick, MO	64077	816/975
Rayville, MO	64084	660
Richmond, MO	64085	816/975

Major Cities and Towns in Ray County, Missouri

Richmond

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 6.32 sq mi
• Population: 5,350 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 64085
• Latitude: 39.1426° N
• Longitude: 94.1413° W

Location and History

Richmond, the county seat of Ray County, is located in western Missouri, about 30 miles northeast of Kansas City. The town was established in 1827 and became the county seat in 1829. It was named after Richmond, Virginia, as many early settlers came from that area. Richmond played an important role during the American Civil War, as it was a strategic location in Missouri. The town was the site of several skirmishes and served as a staging area for Confederate forces. Richmond also experienced growth during the 19th century due to its proximity to the Missouri River, which allowed for the transportation of goods. In the 20th century, Richmond transitioned from an agricultural hub to a more diversified economy, with a focus on retail, manufacturing, and service industries. The town has preserved much of its historical charm, with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, Richmond is a small, yet growing community that offers a blend of rural charm and modern amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Richmond is served by the Richmond R-XVI School District, which includes several schools from elementary to high school. Richmond High School is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, including athletics and fine arts. The city is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Ray County Courthouse, which was built in 1904 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse is a key feature of the city’s historic downtown district, which also includes the historic homes and businesses that date back to the 19th century. The town is also known for the Confederate Memorial, which commemorates the role of local residents during the Civil War. Richmond City Park offers recreational activities for families, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The nearby Lake Viking, a man-made reservoir, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, providing an additional outdoor attraction for residents and visitors alike.

Lawson

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.04 sq mi
• Population: 2,232 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 64062
• Latitude: 39.2989° N
• Longitude: 94.2074° W

Location and History

Lawson is a small city located in the northeastern part of Ray County, Missouri, just 20 miles from the larger metropolitan area of Kansas City. The town was settled in the 1830s and was initially named “Lawson’s Station” after a local merchant, who contributed to the town’s early development. Lawson grew quickly during the 19th century due to its location on the Missouri Pacific Railroad, which made it a central hub for agriculture and trade in the region. The town’s economy was initially based on farming, but over time, it became more industrialized, with manufacturing and retail playing a larger role. Lawson is known for its small-town atmosphere, historic homes, and a vibrant local community. The town has maintained a traditional, close-knit feel despite its proximity to the larger city of Kansas City, providing residents with a peaceful and scenic lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lawson is served by the Lawson R-XIV School District, which includes Lawson High School, known for its commitment to academic excellence and its athletic programs. The district offers a variety of extracurricular activities to students, promoting both intellectual and physical growth. One notable landmark in Lawson is the historic Lawson Depot, which once served as a key part of the town’s transportation system during its early years. The depot has been preserved and is now a symbol of Lawson’s history as a railroad town. Lawson City Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The park is a popular spot for family gatherings and community events. The town also hosts several local festivals and celebrations throughout the year, bringing residents together to celebrate Lawson’s rich heritage. Nearby, the Jesse James Farm and Museum, located in Kearney, Missouri, offers a glimpse into the life of the famous outlaw, further enhancing Lawson’s connection to regional history.

Henrietta

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.98 sq mi
• Population: 300+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 64036
• Latitude: 39.2083° N
• Longitude: 94.2401° W

Location and History

Henrietta is a small, unincorporated community located in the western part of Ray County, Missouri. The settlement was established in the mid-19th century and named after Henrietta Curtis, the daughter of one of the area’s early settlers. Henrietta developed as a rural community with a focus on agriculture and trade, situated along the route of the old Missouri Pacific Railroad. The railroad helped the town grow, bringing goods and services to the area. Like many small towns in Missouri, Henrietta saw a slow decline in population during the mid-20th century as agriculture became less central to the local economy. However, the town remains a tight-knit community with a strong rural identity and a deep connection to its farming roots. Henrietta’s location near the larger cities of Richmond and Lawson provides residents with easy access to more urban amenities, while still offering the charm of a rural Missouri town.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Henrietta is part of the Richmond R-XVI School District, with students attending schools in nearby Richmond. The Richmond High School is the primary institution for secondary education for students from Henrietta, offering both academic and extracurricular opportunities. Henrietta itself does not have significant commercial landmarks, but its rural charm and location near major highways make it a pass-through point for travelers heading to larger towns in Ray County. The community is close to several parks and natural areas, including the Richmond City Park and the nearby Missouri River, which offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. Residents enjoy the peaceful, country atmosphere, while still being within a short drive of shopping, dining, and entertainment options in Richmond or Lawson. The area also celebrates its local heritage during community events such as the Ray County Fair, which showcases local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment.