National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri – Knowipedia

**National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri**

**Definition**
The National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri, comprise a comprehensive catalog of properties and districts within Scott County that have been officially recognized by the United States federal government for their historical, architectural, archaeological, or cultural significance.

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## National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri

Scott County, located in the southeastern region of Missouri, is home to a diverse array of historic sites that reflect the county’s rich cultural heritage and development over time. The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is the United States’ official list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance. This article provides an overview of the NRHP listings in Scott County, Missouri, highlighting the importance of these sites and their contributions to the county’s historical narrative.

### Overview of the National Register of Historic Places

The National Register of Historic Places was established in 1966 under the National Historic Preservation Act to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archaeological resources. Properties listed on the Register can include individual buildings, historic districts, sites, structures, and objects that meet criteria related to their age, integrity, and significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.

Listing on the National Register provides recognition and assists in preserving the nation’s heritage. While it does not guarantee protection from demolition or alteration, it can offer certain preservation incentives, including eligibility for federal grants and tax credits.

### Scott County, Missouri: Historical Context

Scott County was officially organized in 1821 and named after General Winfield Scott, a prominent figure in American military history. The county’s location along the Mississippi River has played a significant role in its development, serving as a transportation and trade hub. The county’s economy historically centered on agriculture, river commerce, and later industrial development.

The historic places listed in Scott County reflect various aspects of its growth, including early settlement patterns, architectural styles, transportation history, and community development. These sites provide insight into the county’s evolution from frontier lands to a modern community.

### Criteria for Inclusion in the National Register

To be eligible for listing on the National Register, properties must meet one or more of the following criteria:

– Association with significant events in history.
– Association with the lives of significant persons.
– Architectural significance or representation of a particular style or method of construction.
– Potential to yield important information in history or prehistory (archaeological significance).

In Scott County, properties listed on the National Register typically meet one or more of these criteria, representing the county’s historical, architectural, and cultural heritage.

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## National Register Listings in Scott County

As of the latest records, Scott County has multiple properties and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These listings include a variety of building types such as residential homes, commercial buildings, churches, schools, bridges, and historic districts. Each listing contributes uniquely to the understanding of the county’s past.

### Notable Individual Listings

#### 1. Scott County Courthouse
The Scott County Courthouse, located in Benton, is a prominent example of early 20th-century civic architecture. Constructed in the Classical Revival style, the courthouse has served as the center of county government and judicial affairs for over a century. Its architectural features include symmetrical facades, columns, and a prominent dome, symbolizing the rule of law and civic pride.

#### 2. Benton Historic District
The Benton Historic District encompasses a significant portion of the county seat’s downtown area. This district includes commercial buildings, residences, and public structures dating from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The district reflects the economic and social development of Benton as a regional center.

#### 3. Kelso House
The Kelso House is a well-preserved example of mid-19th-century residential architecture in Scott County. It showcases elements of Greek Revival style and provides insight into the domestic life of prominent local families during the county’s early settlement period.

#### 4. Scott County Jail
The historic Scott County Jail, constructed in the late 1800s, is notable for its unique architectural design and role in the county’s law enforcement history. The building’s robust construction and original features have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the penal practices of the era.

### Historic Districts

In addition to individual buildings, Scott County includes several historic districts that collectively represent significant aspects of the county’s heritage.

#### Benton Downtown Historic District
This district includes a concentration of commercial and civic buildings that illustrate the economic growth of Benton from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. Architectural styles within the district range from Italianate to Art Deco, reflecting changing tastes and economic conditions.

#### Kelso Historic District
The Kelso Historic District encompasses residential and commercial properties that highlight the development of the community of Kelso. The district’s buildings demonstrate a variety of architectural styles and construction methods, representing the town’s evolution.

### Bridges and Infrastructure

Scott County’s listings also include historic bridges and infrastructure that played vital roles in transportation and commerce.

#### Scott County Bridge No. 1504
This historic bridge is an example of early 20th-century engineering and construction techniques. It facilitated transportation across local waterways, contributing to the county’s economic development.

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## Preservation and Significance

The preservation of National Register properties in Scott County is essential for maintaining the tangible connections to the county’s past. These sites serve educational purposes, promote tourism, and foster community identity. Local historical societies, government agencies, and preservation groups often collaborate to maintain and protect these resources.

### Benefits of Listing

Properties listed on the National Register in Scott County may qualify for preservation grants and tax incentives that encourage rehabilitation and maintenance. Additionally, listing raises public awareness about the importance of historic preservation and can influence local planning decisions.

### Challenges in Preservation

Despite the benefits, preservation efforts face challenges such as funding limitations, development pressures, and environmental factors. Maintaining the integrity of historic properties requires ongoing commitment from both public and private stakeholders.

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## Summary of National Register Listings in Scott County

*Note: The above table is a representative summary; the actual number and details of listings may vary.*

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## Conclusion

The National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri, represent a vital record of the county’s historical and cultural development. These sites provide valuable insights into the architectural styles, community growth, and historical events that have shaped the region. Preservation of these properties ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from Scott County’s rich heritage.

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**Meta Description:**
A detailed overview of the National Register of Historic Places listings in Scott County, Missouri, highlighting significant historic sites, districts, and structures that reflect the county’s cultural and architectural heritage.