Pershing State Park

HistoryEdit

Long before John Pershing was born, or before any European immigrants reached the midwest, the land that encompasses Pershing State Park was the domain of Native Americans, mostly of the Sac and Fox tribes. The land in northern Missouri was used largely as hunting grounds for the tribes, but a few native settlements were established. Within the boundaries of Pershing State Park are two burial mounds and a former village site. The burial mounds are estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,000 years old.

Pershing State Park had its beginning in 1937 when the State of Missouri purchased a large tract of land, some 1,770 acres, a short distance west of Laclede for $20,000. Since the early 1930s a group from Laclede had petitioned the Federal government to create a national military memorial to Pershing in Linn county. However regulations prevented Congress from doing so for a person still living (Pershing did not die until 1948). A state park was seen as the next best alternative. Pershing's father had owned two farms in the vicinity, and Pershing himself had roamed the area in his youth, hunting and fishing along Locust creek.

Once purchased, the park was dedicated in 1940. The land however remained largely unused and undeveloped for several years save for two buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps just prior to World War II. This lack of overdevelopment would later prove a plus as the meandering Locust Creek—with its wet prairie, marshes, and bottomland forests—reflects the natural wetland state of some northern Missouri lands before agricultural development and the channelization of large creeks and rivers.

The park todayEdit

Pershing State Park now encompasses over 3,500 acres, much of it still undeveloped native habitat. There are five hiking trails within the park, including the 1.5-mile-long boardwalk trail that winds through shrub swam, wet prairie, marshland and bottomland forest. The area along the trail is designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. There are three other trails all less than one half mile in length for easy hiking. The longest, the 6-mile-long "Riparian Trail", links Pershing State Park to the Fountain Grove Conservation Area.

Camping -- A 39-space campground provides both electrified and basic campsites along with modern amenities like showers, rv dump station, laundry, and water hookup. The .4-mile-long Canfield Savanna Trail links the campground to other areas of the park. Primitive camping is also allowed along Riparian Trail.

Fishing & Boating -- There are four small lakes available stocked with bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Locust Creek also offers the chance to catch bullhead, drum, and carp. Only canoes and boats using electric motors are allowed on the lakes. No launch ramp or marina services are present.

Picnicking -- A large enclosed shelter with kitchenette is available for rental. A covered shelter with water and electricity is free on a first come basis. Several other basic picnic sites are available. The two shelter sites each feature nearby playground equipment.

War Angel Memorial -- Located in the primary day-use area, the marble monument honors all mothers who have lost their sons in war. It was dedicated in 1940 by the Missouri chapter of the American War Mothers organization.

Other attractions -- Located within the park are a former water mill site, and a basement barn constructed in the 1890s. Across U.S. Route 36 from the main portion of the park is the Locust Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site. Three miles to the east of the park in Laclede one can visit the Gen. John J. Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site. The Great Pershing Balloon Derby, which was originally held at the state park before moving to an event-specific donated area, is held near Pershing State Park each Labor Day weekend.