Clarkton began as a small hunting and trading settlement in 1832, and was originally known as Bach, then Beech Grove and, by the time of the Civil War, it had been shortened to Beech. Beech was an island settlement in the middle of a swamp. The town was platted in 1880 after a plank road was built through the area. Clarkton is the oldest city in Dunklin County, Missouri. The community was named for Major Henry E. Clark, who was the chief engineer on the Blanton Plank Road Project. Clarkton and Dunklin County maintained a neutral stance during the first part of the American Civil War. Nevertheless, Clarkton found itself in the midst of the Civil War, beginning with a couple of skirmishes in October of 1862, in which the Blanton Plank Road was burned. Rebuilt with rough logs, the road was so rough that it became known as the Devil’s Backboard. By the end of the war, much of the community had been destroyed. Clarkton is south of McGuire and east of Gibson.
Recommended Resources
The city of Clarkton was platted in 1880, although it was settled as early as 1832. The official municipal web site offers an overview of the city’s administrative offices, public works, police and fire departments, as well as meeting agendas and minutes.
http://www.clarktonmissouri.com/
Operating Clarkton Elementary School and Clarkton High School, the public school system is based in Clarkton, Missouri. Its campuses are highlighted, along with policy information for parents and students, faculty and staff contacts, and an overview of associated clubs and organizations.
http://www.clarktonschools.org/
Serving beer, wine, coffee, and food, as well as live entertainment, the Clarkton, Missouri pub is featured, including its menu, a calendar of events, and contacts are posted to the web site.
http://www.cypresspub.com/
Headquartered in Clarkton, Missouri, the MACO Companies consist of MACO Management Company, MACO Development Company, and MACO Construction Company, each of which is highlighted, with directions, contacts, and an overview of their services and qualifications.
http://www.macocompanies.com/
