Created page with "{{Infobox settlement | name = Jefferson City | official_name = City of Jefferson | settlement_type = Capital city | image_skyline = | image_caption = Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City | subdivision_name1 = Missouri | subdivision_name = United States | established_date = 1821 | population_total = 43,000 | area_total_km2 = 98 | timezone = Central (CST/CDT) | postal_code = 65101–65111 | area_..."
 
 
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== Overview ==
== Overview ==
* Named after **Thomas Jefferson**, the third President of the United States
* Named after '''Thomas Jefferson''', the third President of the United States
* Selected as the state capital in 1821 due to its central location
* Selected as the state capital in 1821 due to its central location
* One of the smallest state capitals by population
* One of the smallest state capitals by population

Latest revision as of 00:37, 11 June 2025

Jefferson City
Official name City of Jefferson
Type Capital city
Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City
State Missouri
Country United States
Established 1821
Population 43,000
Area (km²) 98
Time zone Central (CST/CDT)
ZIP code(s) 65101–65111
Area code(s) 573

Jefferson City is the capital of the U.S. state of Missouri. Located on the southern bank of the Missouri River, it serves as the state’s political center and is known for its scenic bluffs, neoclassical capitol building, and historical significance.

Overview

  • Named after Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States
  • Selected as the state capital in 1821 due to its central location
  • One of the smallest state capitals by population

Landmarks and Attractions

  • Missouri State Capitol – features murals by artist Thomas Hart Benton
  • Missouri State Museum – located inside the Capitol
  • Governor’s Mansion – historic residence of the state’s governor
  • Runge Nature Center – offers trails and conservation exhibits
  • Old Missouri State Penitentiary – historic prison turned into a tour destination

History

  • Chosen as the capital after Missouri achieved statehood in 1821
  • Played a role in the Civil War as a strategic location between Union and Confederate territories
  • Developed into a government and administrative center with small-town charm

Government

  • Seat of the Missouri General Assembly and executive offices
  • Location of the Missouri Supreme Court
  • Numerous government departments and agencies headquartered here

Economy

  • Primarily driven by government, education, healthcare, and light manufacturing
  • Local businesses support the state workforce and nearby communities

Education

  • Lincoln University – a historically Black university founded by Civil War veterans
  • Strong K–12 education through Jefferson City School District
  • Technical schools and nearby colleges support workforce training

Transportation

  • Located on U.S. Route 50 and 54
  • Served by Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner line
  • Jefferson City Memorial Airport supports general aviation

Fun Facts

  • One of only four U.S. state capitals not served by an interstate highway
  • Missouri’s Capitol is one of the most beautiful in the nation, overlooking the river
  • Has been rated among the most affordable capital cities to live in

See Also