The Iron County Historical Society is a non-profit organization that was established in 1974 to preserve and share the rich history of Iron County, Missouri.  Our museum and archives focus on this history.  Besides maintaining our museum and archives, we hold four meetings each year on the third Sunday of January, April, July, and October.  We also publish a quarterly newsletter which is mailed out prior to each meeting. Members can access our newsletter archive in the Members Only area of the website.

Iron County is located in southeast Missouri approximately 80 miles from St. Louis and is named after the once abundant mineral resource that was mined throughout the county.  The county was formed in 1857 and the railroad reached Pilot Knob in 1858. Union forces were stationed here during the Civil War and the Battle of Pilot Knob took place here on 26 - 27 September 1864.   Iron County's history and economy have revolved around four major industries over the years following the Civil War; mining, agriculture, timber and tourism.  

 

Whether you currently live in Iron County, are a descendant from past generations, or just interested in history, we invite you to become a member of the Iron County Historical Society. We hope you will tour our museum and archives, as well as share your own photos, stories, and information about Iron County’s past. 

Our Quarterly Membership Meetings are normally held on the third Sunday of January, July and October and our Annual Membership Meeting is normally held on the third Sunday in April.  Meeting dates may change and / or meetings may be canceled due to weather or other events.  The very latest meeting info is posted on the Coming Events menu tab.  Meetings are held at the First Presbyterian Church in Ironton and start at 2 p.m.  Each meeting is preceded by a program and is followed by refreshments.  The public is invited to attend.  

 

Unless otherwise noted, Board of Directors Meetings take place at the Arcadia Valley Visitors Center and Museum in Arcadia at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of February, March, May, June, August, September, and November.  The public is also invited to attend these meetings