History of Oronogo

In the early 1840’s strong deposits of galena ( lead) was found in and around the Center Creek area.  A few homes and stores stared popping up in what is now Oronogo.  In 1856 the town was platted by Stephen Paine.   It was called Minersville.  Containing approximately 25 homes.  After the Civil War a Post office was established in Minersville called Center Creek Post Office with Charles W. Elliot as postmaster.   It was soon realized there was a town in Christian County with the name ‘Minersville,’ with most of the mail going there.  A town meeting was held to discuss the changing of names.                           During the  meeting a man in the back spoke up with the                                              saying, “ ore” “or” “no” “go.” the name was agreed on

and the town became, Oronogo.

 

Oronogo continued to grow during the 1870’s.  In 1873 , a single chunk of  lead was discovered eight feet from the surface weighing 60,000 pounds. I sold for $5,000.00  In 1876 the town was incorporated with W.T. Duncan becoming the first Chairman of the Board of Trustees.  On May 13, 1883 the town was totally destroyed by a tornado.  The town quickly rebuilt and continued to grow.  The Bank of Oronogo was established in 1892 by Robert Robyn, J.P. Newell, R. Stults and others.  It was robbed in 1932 by Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker, who was born in Oronogo.

 

Oronogo continued to be a major producer of lead after the turn of the century.  The most famous mine was the “ Circle Mine,” described as the greatest producer of zinc in the world.  In 1914 it was sold for the price of $500,000.00.  

After the first World War the population had dropped to around 4,000.  The end of the mining boom was amidst.  Experiencing a gradual decline in businesses the city struggles during the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s.  The Oronogo school district consolidated with the Webb City school district. The US Air Force maintained a base on Radar Hill which planes ran simulated bombing runs during the cold war.  It was Closed around 1965.

 

In the 2000 census the data reveals Oronogo is one of the fastest growing communities in the State of Missouri.  With new housing and commercial developments popping up over night.

City of

                           Oronogo