Lawrence County

Lawrence County is an administrative division in the southwest of Missouri, covering roughly 613 square miles across gently rolling terrain. Mount Vernon serves as its county seat and main hub for government operations.

The county was established in February 1845 and named after James Lawrence, a naval officer from the War of 1812. Its creation reflected the westward expansion and settlement growth of the state during that era.

Multiple public school districts, including Aurora, Marionville, Miller, and Mount Vernon, provide education services to the county's 38,001 residents.

Mount Vernon is easily reached via US Route 60, which runs through the heart of the county, making it simple to find the main courthouse and county offices. The area offers typical small-town services and amenities you would expect in a rural administrative center.

The Ozark Cavefish National Wildlife Refuge protects specialized fish species that live in underground water systems beneath the county. These rare creatures have adapted to survive in complete darkness within their subterranean world.

Location: Missouri

Inception: 1845

Capital city: Mount Vernon

Shares border with: Dade County, Barry County, Greene County, Stone County, Christian County, Jasper County, Newton County

Website: https://lawrencecountymo.org

GPS coordinates: 37.11000,-93.83000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:21