Cities and Towns in Vernon County, Missouri

Founded in 1851, Vernon County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Vernon County was formed from Bates County. The city of Nevada is the county seat. With FIPS code of 217, Vernon County has a population of 19,595 and area of 834 square miles (2,160 km²).

List of all cities in Vernon County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bronaugh, MO 64728 417
Camp Clark, MO 64772 417
Deerfield, MO 64741 417
Harwood, MO 64750 417
Horton, MO 64778 417
Metz, MO 64765 417
Milo, MO 64767 417
Moundville, MO 64771 417
Nevada, MO 64772 417
Richards, MO 64778 417
Schell City, MO 64783 417
Sheldon, MO 64784 417
Walker, MO 64790 417

Major Cities and Towns in Vernon County, Missouri

Nevada

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 7.73 sq mi
  • Population: 8,467 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 64772
  • Latitude: 37.8360° N
  • Longitude: 94.3627° W

Location and History

Nevada is the county seat and largest city in Vernon County, located in the southwestern part of Missouri, approximately 100 miles south of Kansas City. Nevada was founded in 1855 and named after the state of Nevada, with a nod to the state’s mountains and mineral resources, though the city itself has no mining history. Nevada grew rapidly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its location on major trade routes and the arrival of the railroad, which made it a key commercial center for surrounding agricultural areas. The city also served as a military site during the Civil War and hosted a number of key events during that period. Nevada continued to prosper into the 20th century with the development of local industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and retail. Today, Nevada is known for its historic downtown, strong local economy, and its role as a regional center for healthcare and education.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nevada is served by the Nevada R-5 School District, which includes Nevada High School, an active and competitive high school with numerous extracurricular programs. The city is home to a number of landmarks, such as the Vernon County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building located in the heart of downtown Nevada. The city also has a number of parks, including the popular Radio Springs Park, which offers picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for fishing. The Bushwhacker Museum, located in Nevada, is dedicated to the city’s role in the Civil War and local history. Nevada’s annual Fall Festival celebrates the community’s heritage and offers family-friendly activities, carnival rides, and live entertainment. The city also has the Nevada Municipal Golf Course, offering a scenic spot for outdoor recreation.

Sheldon

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.45 sq mi
  • Population: 192 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 64784
  • Latitude: 37.5829° N
  • Longitude: 94.3041° W

Location and History

Sheldon is a small town located in the northeastern part of Vernon County, Missouri, approximately 15 miles north of Nevada. Founded in the late 1800s, Sheldon was originally established as a station on the Missouri Pacific Railroad, which played a significant role in the town’s early development. The town was named after Sheldon, Connecticut, a place with which the founder had connections. Initially, the economy of Sheldon was centered around agriculture, with local farmers growing crops such as corn and wheat. As the railroad brought goods and people to the area, Sheldon also saw the development of small businesses, general stores, and services for travelers. Over time, the railroad’s importance waned, but the agricultural base remained the heart of the town. Today, Sheldon is a quiet, rural community that continues to serve as a center for local agriculture while maintaining its historical roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sheldon is part of the Sheldon R-8 School District, with the Sheldon Elementary School serving the town’s young students. The town is primarily residential and rural, but it is known for the Sheldon Community Center, which hosts local events, activities, and gatherings. The area surrounding Sheldon is rich in farmland, offering scenic views of the Ozark foothills. Although Sheldon is small, the town is an important part of the agricultural community in Vernon County. Nearby landmarks include local churches and family-owned farms, many of which have been in operation for generations. The town also maintains a strong sense of community with seasonal events such as local fairs and picnics that bring residents together to celebrate their rural heritage.

Horton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.30 sq mi
  • Population: 153 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 64787
  • Latitude: 37.7040° N
  • Longitude: 94.3142° W

Location and History

Horton is a small town located in the eastern part of Vernon County, Missouri, near the border with Bates County. Established in the late 19th century, Horton developed primarily as an agricultural community. The town was named after a prominent local family, the Hortons, who were instrumental in the town’s establishment. Like many small towns in the region, Horton grew around farming, with corn, wheat, and livestock being the primary industries. The town also served as a stop on local trade routes, helping to establish its role as a hub for agricultural products and services. Over time, however, Horton has remained a small, rural town with a tight-knit community. Today, the town is still centered around farming and agriculture, though its population has remained small.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Horton is part of the Sheldon R-8 School District, which includes elementary education for children in Horton and nearby areas. While the town itself does not have many large landmarks, it is home to several historic buildings, including local churches and community structures. Horton is surrounded by beautiful agricultural land, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The town is near the Marais des Cygnes River, providing a scenic setting for the surrounding rural community. Although small, Horton maintains a strong sense of local pride, and residents gather for seasonal events and festivals, including agricultural fairs and holiday celebrations.

Metz

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.33 sq mi
  • Population: 58 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 64765
  • Latitude: 37.8087° N
  • Longitude: 94.4705° W

Location and History

Metz is a small village located in the southern part of Vernon County, Missouri. Founded in the mid-1800s, Metz was originally established as a stop along the Southern Pacific Railroad, making it an important trade center in its early days. The village was named after Metz, France, and its development was initially based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. Over the years, Metz’s population remained relatively small, with the railroad’s decline contributing to a reduction in economic activity. However, the village has continued to maintain a rural character, and farming remains an essential part of the local economy. Today, Metz is a quiet, close-knit community with a population of just under 100 residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Metz is served by the Nevada R-5 School District, and students generally attend school in Nevada. While the town is small and lacks many commercial landmarks, it is home to a number of local churches and family farms. The surrounding area is known for its beautiful rural landscapes, with opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. Metz is also near the Osage River, providing a natural setting for outdoor activities. The village hosts occasional community events that highlight its agricultural roots, and its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to larger cities make it an attractive place for those seeking a rural lifestyle.

Walker

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.21 sq mi
  • Population: 113 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 64790
  • Latitude: 37.6120° N
  • Longitude: 94.2959° W

Location and History

Walker is a small town located in the central part of Vernon County, Missouri, roughly 10 miles northeast of Nevada. Established in the late 1800s, Walker’s early economy revolved around agriculture, and the town served as a market for local farmers. The town was named after Walker M. Willis, a prominent local figure, and it grew modestly as a farming and trade center for surrounding communities. Over the years, Walker has maintained a quiet, rural atmosphere, with the majority of its population engaged in agriculture and other rural occupations. Although Walker never experienced significant urban development, it has continued to thrive as a tight-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Walker is part of the Nevada R-5 School District, with students attending school in nearby Nevada. The town does not have many commercial or tourist landmarks, but it is home to several local businesses, churches, and community centers. Walker’s proximity to agricultural land provides picturesque views, and the town is known for its peaceful, rural setting. Nearby landmarks include the Marais des Cygnes River and local parks that offer recreational activities such as fishing and hiking. The community hosts local events like agricultural fairs and festivals that bring the town together and celebrate its rural heritage.