Caruthersville, city in and county seat of Pemiscot County, Missouri, United States
Caruthersville is a city in Pemiscot County located in Missouri's bootheel along the Mississippi River. The town spreads across flat land with simple houses and small businesses, while large levees built for flood protection stand as prominent features across the landscape.
The city was founded in 1857 and officially incorporated in 1874, named after Samuel Caruthers, a U.S. Congressman. Sterling Price Reynolds dedicated his life to building levees and draining swamps to protect the area from flooding, serving as chief engineer into his 101st year.
Caruthersville's identity is rooted in its connection to the Mississippi River and the surrounding farmland that defines daily life here. Fishing and agriculture remain central to how residents understand their place and traditions, with these practices woven into the community's sense of self.
The flat terrain and simple street layout make the town easy to navigate, with most places reachable by car. Some shops and eateries are clustered in the downtown area and within walking distance of each other for those exploring on foot.
The city is home to a distinctive water tower that resembles a lighthouse and stands over 100 years old. This structure is rare throughout the region and has been protected as a historic landmark.
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