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Fulton, MO

Frequently asked questions

Fulton, MO

Fulton is the largest city in and the county seat of Callaway County, Missouri, United States. Located about 22 miles (35 km) northeast of Jefferson City and the Missouri River and 20 miles (32 km) east of Columbia, the city is part of the Jefferson City, Missouri, Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 12,600 at the 2020 census. The city is home to two universities, Westminster College and William Woods University; the Missouri School for the Deaf; the Fulton State Hospital; and the Fulton Reception and Diagnostic Center state prison. Missouri's only nuclear power plant, the Callaway Plant is located 13 miles southeast of Fulton.

The first settlement in the county was in 1809 at Cote Sans Dessein along the Missouri River. Early leaders considered setting the first Missouri state capital in the territory between Wainwright and Tebbetts. Callaway County was organized in 1820 and was named after Captain James Callaway, who was killed by Native Americans. Elizabeth became the first county seat. Many of the villages and towns in the county today represent places where railroad stations existed in the early years.

In 1861, word arrived that Union troops had advanced to a nearby county. Colonel Jefferson F. Jones, from eastern Callaway County, assembled troops to protect the county. Forces were limited as many were already defending the country, but Jones marched the troops eastward to meet the approaching companies. The successful defense was merely an illusion. Tree logs, erected by the troops, resembled artillery in the shadows of campfires and deterred Union troops. Talks continued for several days and secured a mutual ceasefire agreement between the United States of America and Callaway County. Elated from the successful defense, citizens proclaimed their county The Kingdom of Callaway, a reference that remains today.

Fulton, the largest city in Callaway County, was founded and became the county seat in 1825 but was not incorporated until March 14, 1859. The city was originally named Volney after Constantin François de Chassebœuf, Comte de Volney, but was changed to honor Robert Fulton, the engineer and inventor, two months after the initial Volney name in 1825. Volney, New York is a town in Oswego County, New York which is also named for Volney. A village within the town of Volney is Fulton, New York which is also named for Robert Fulton.

The city is located in central Callaway County along U.S. Route 54 about 22 miles (35 km) northeast of Jefferson City and the Missouri River. Columbia is about 20 miles (32 km) to the northwest. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.40 square miles (32.12 km2), of which 12.26 square miles (31.75 km2) is land and 0.14 square miles (0.36 km2) is water.

Fulton places a strong emphasis on health and wellness for its residents. Fulton State Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare services, ensuring residents and visitors receive quality medical care. For a unique yoga experience, try Natural Focus Yoga and Spa. Sarah's Yoga Studio hosts yoga sessions at Battlefield Lavender, combining relaxation and the soothing scent of lavender. For a spa day, visit Wild + Well Yoga or The Pearl Spa for therapeutic massages and spa treatments. Fitness enthusiasts can join Fulton CrossFit for high-intensity workouts and community support

Top sites in Fulton, MO are America's National Churchill Museum, Auto World Museum, and Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum.

Population: 12,473 (2023). ZIP code: 65251. Area code: 573. Elevation: 801 ft (244 m). Area: 12.40 square miles (32.12 km2).  

FAQs

What is Fulton, MO famous for?

Until WWII, Fulton was known worldwide for its part in the widespread use of the good ol’ Missouri mule. In addition, Fulton is in an area that is claimed to be the world’s greatest mule feeding ground, shipping out and selling 2,000 to 3,000 mules every year. The largest sale days were usually in April and October. Fulton’s economy was not only a result of agriculture but also a variety of businesses and professions.

What is the history of Fulton, MO?

Fulton was founded in 1825, the same year it became the county seat. However, it was not incorporated until March 14, 1859.  The early residents of Fulton were from a predominantly Southern culture. The coastal and upland Southerners that settled on the land brought with them slaves and established an agricultural economy. 

Is Fulton, MO a good place to live?

Fulton has been recognized time and time again as a great small town - for a weekend, your college years, or a lifetime. Fulton has been named one of the " 10 Coolest Small Towns in America" by Budget Travel magazine. Fulton is ranked as one of the " 15 most affordable small towns we love" by Southern Living magazine. Smithsonian Magazine named Fulton among the " 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2019".
 

Sources

City of Fulton 

Wikipedia

Callaway MO History 

William Woods Edu

America's National Churchill Museum

Auto World Museum

Kingdom of Callaway Historical Society Museum

Fulton State Hospital

Natural Focus Yoga and Spa

Sarah's Yoga Studio

Wild + Well Yoga

The Pearl Spa

Fulton CrossFit

Battlefield Lavender

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.