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Washington, MO

Frequently asked questions

Washington, MO 

Washington is a city on the south banks of the Missouri River, 50 miles west of St. Louis, Missouri, and the largest in Franklin County, Missouri, United States. The estimated population in July 2021 was 14,916, an increase of 7% since the 2010 census. It is the corncob pipe capital of the world, with Missouri Meerschaum located on the riverfront.

Named after George Washington after it came under American control, the town was first settled during the rule of the Spanish Empire. It was originally called St. John Meyer's Settlement and was the site of the Spanish log fort San Juan del Misuri (1796–1803).

Family and followers of Daniel Boone settled the area across the river from Washington, Missouri starting in 1799. In 1814 a ferry boat was licensed for crossing the Missouri River to the north, and the settlement became known as Washington Landing. In 1827 a town was laid out, with the sale of lots starting in 1829. The cost of land was waived if the buyer could build a substantial house within two years. This encouraged many new settlers.

Substantial numbers of anti-slavery German families started moving to the town in 1833, and they soon overwhelmed the existing population of slave owners. However, many of the original slaveowners' homes remain throughout the town. Washington became a strong supporter of the Union during the American Civil War. The town was ransacked by Confederate General Sterling Price's soldiers, but they were unable to keep control of the area.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 9.87 square miles (25.56 km2), of which 9.34 square miles (24.19 km2) is land and 0.53 square miles (1.37 km2) is water. The majority of annual precipitation falls during the humid springs and summers. Typically, fall and winter are relatively dry. While snow is not rare, it is not as frequent as in the upper Midwest. An average of 19 inches falls annually.

The city places a strong emphasis on health and wellness for its residents. Washington is home to several healthcare facilities, including Mercy Hospital Washington, ensuring that residents have access to quality medical care close to home. Start with a visit to the Washington Green Spa & Wellness, where you can enjoy a range of spa treatments including massages and facials in a serene environment. For fitness enthusiasts, Strong Human Fitness offers state-of-the-art equipment and personal training sessions. Enjoy a scenic bike ride on the Katy Trail, a flat, crushed limestone trail that spans across Missouri and is accessible from nearby Dutzow. For a holistic approach, visit Nature’s Rhythm Yoga Studio, which offers various yoga classes and wellness workshops. Club Fitness provides a comprehensive fitness experience with a range of classes and modern facilities.

Top sites in Washington, MO are Washington Historical Society, Iron Spike Model Train Museum, and James W. Rennick Riverfront Park.

Population: 15,450 (2023). ZIP code: 63090. Area code: 636. Elevation: 558 ft (170 m). Area: 9.87 square miles (25.56 km2).

FAQs

What is the history of Washington, MO?

Daniel Boone and his followers first settled in the area in 1799, and Lewis and Clark traveled through in 1804. The town was officially founded in 1839 and was later settled primarily by German immigrants. Ferryboats served the community from the early 1800s until a bridge was completed in 1936. The Pacific Railroad laid lines through Washington by 1855. In 1854, John Busch, older brother of Adolphus Busch, established a brewery in Washington, bottling the first Busch Beer.

What is Washington, MO known for?

An Austrian immigrant, Franz Schwarzer, began the manufacture of his world-famous zithers in 1866. Henry Tibbe and his son Anton began making corncob pipes in 1869; that business would help put Washington, Missouri, on the map as the “Corncob Pipe Capital of the World.” Many of Washington’s historic structures remain today, proudly standing as reminders of times past and evidence of the pride and determination of our forefathers. 

What is it like to live in Washington, MO?

Washington is in Franklin County and is one of the best places to live in Missouri. Living in Washington offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families and young professionals live in Washington and residents tend to be conservative. The public schools in Washington are above average.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Washington

Visit Wash MO

Niche

Achp

Washington Historical Society

Iron Spike Model Train Museum

James W. Rennick Riverfront Park

Mercy Hospital Washington

Washington Green Spa & Wellness

Strong Human Fitness

Katy Trail

Nature’s Rhythm Yoga Studio

Club Fitness

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