Cities and Towns in Scotland County, Missouri
Founded in 1841, Scotland County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Scotland County was formed from Clark, Lewis, and Shelby counties. The city of Memphis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 199, Scotland County has a population of 4,693 and area of 438 square miles (1,134 km²).
List of all cities in Scotland County, MO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arbela, MO | 63432 | 660 |
| Arbela, MO | 63442 | 660 |
| Colony, MO | 63563 | 660 |
| Gorin, MO | 63543 | 660 |
| Granger, MO | 63442 | 660 |
| Memphis, MO | 63555 | 660 |
| Rutledge, MO | 63563 | 660 |
| Sand Hill, MO | 63563 | 660 |
Major Cities and Towns in Scotland County, Missouri
Memphis
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.63 sq mi
- Population: 1,750 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63555
- Latitude: 40.4096° N
- Longitude: 92.1837° W
Location and History
Memphis is the county seat of Scotland County, located in the northeastern corner of Missouri, near the Iowa border. Founded in 1845, Memphis was named after the ancient Egyptian city of Memphis, reflecting the ambition of early settlers to create a thriving community. Initially, the area was heavily dependent on agriculture, with settlers cultivating crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat, as well as raising livestock. The city’s growth was slow but steady, aided by its strategic location along the railroad and its proximity to the Des Moines River. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century played a significant role in Memphis’s development, making it a key trading hub for agricultural goods. In the 20th century, Memphis remained a small agricultural town, although it diversified its economy with the introduction of small businesses and local services. Today, Memphis serves as the economic and cultural center of Scotland County, with a focus on community-oriented living and agriculture. The city is known for its well-maintained historic buildings and close-knit community, which continues to foster a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Memphis is served by the Scotland County R-I School District, which includes Scotland County High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, music programs, and academic clubs. Among the city’s most notable landmarks is the Scotland County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the heart of local government and reflects the town’s 19th-century architectural style. The Scotland County Historical Society Museum is another important landmark, showcasing the area’s rich history, from its agricultural roots to its role in local and regional development. The Memphis City Park provides residents with outdoor recreation opportunities, including a playground, walking trails, and sports fields. Memphis is also home to several community events, including the annual Memphis Fall Festival, which celebrates the town’s heritage and attracts visitors from surrounding areas. The surrounding rural areas offer opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, while the town itself provides a tranquil and family-friendly environment for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Arbela
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.19 sq mi
- Population: 127 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63432
- Latitude: 40.3751° N
- Longitude: 92.0150° W
Location and History
Arbela is a small, rural community in the southeastern part of Scotland County, Missouri, and is situated along U.S. Route 136. Founded in the mid-1800s, Arbela developed around agriculture and the railroad, which helped the small town thrive as a trading center. Its name, derived from the biblical city of Arbela, reflects the town’s early settlers’ aspirations to build a vibrant and prosperous community. Arbela remained a modest, agrarian town for much of its history, with residents relying on farming, livestock, and the nearby railroads for transportation and trade. Over the years, the town saw a gradual decline in population, as many rural residents moved to larger cities in search of employment. Today, Arbela is a quiet, tight-knit community with a population that has remained stable despite the challenges faced by many small towns in the region. While the community continues to be involved in agriculture, Arbela is also part of the broader regional economy that includes nearby towns like Memphis and Downing, providing residents with access to a wider array of services and amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arbela is served by the Scotland County R-I School District, with students attending schools in nearby Memphis. The district offers a variety of programs aimed at providing a solid educational foundation while also encouraging extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and leadership development. The town itself has few formal landmarks due to its small size, but Arbela’s rural charm and history are reflected in its agricultural landscape. The Arbela Community Park, located in the heart of the village, serves as a gathering place for local events and outdoor activities. Nearby, the town is within driving distance of the Mark Twain National Forest, which provides residents and visitors with access to hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Arbela’s residents maintain a strong sense of community, and local events such as the annual town picnic help foster connections among the town’s small population. Although the town may lack large-scale commercial attractions, its rural setting and proximity to other regional landmarks make it a peaceful retreat in northeastern Missouri.
Downing
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 sq mi
- Population: 196 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 63536
- Latitude: 40.2874° N
- Longitude: 92.1412° W
Location and History
Downing is a small village located in the southeastern part of Scotland County, Missouri, just a few miles from the Iowa border. The village was established in the mid-1800s, originally serving as an agricultural settlement. Its location along major trade routes, including the railroad, allowed Downing to grow as a regional center for the surrounding farming community. Early settlers relied on the fertile soil of the area to grow corn, wheat, and other crops, while livestock farming also played a significant role in the local economy. As with many small towns in the region, Downing’s growth slowed after the mid-20th century as industrialization and urbanization drew people away from rural communities. Despite this, Downing has maintained its rural identity and continues to be home to many families who rely on farming and agriculture. Today, Downing is a small, tight-knit community that prides itself on its rural heritage and small-town charm. It is located near other larger towns, such as Memphis, allowing residents to access services while enjoying the tranquility of a small village.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Downing is served by the Scotland County R-I School District, with students attending schools in Memphis. The district offers a comprehensive education program, with extracurricular opportunities such as sports teams, music programs, and other activities designed to foster student development. While Downing itself is a small community, it is known for its strong local ties, and the annual Downing Community Picnic is a popular event that brings together residents and visitors alike. The town’s major landmarks include the Downing Baptist Church, a historical institution that has been central to the community for many years. The surrounding rural areas are known for their agricultural beauty, and local farms and country roads provide picturesque views of the landscape. Downing is also located near various recreational areas, including conservation areas and state parks, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The village remains a peaceful rural retreat, offering a simpler way of life and a strong sense of community to its residents.
