Historic and charming Waynesville, a small town nestled among the beautiful Ozark hills, has a rich, colorful history, beginning with the man after whom the town is named.
In keeping with the town's connection to the military, Waynesville was named after General "Mad" Anthony Wayne, a hero of the Revolutionary War. Had it not been for Wayne's victories in Ohio in 1793 and 1794 and the founding of Fort Wayne in October 1794, the western border of the country might never have made it even to the Mississippi River.
The city was named by the first permanent settlers who came to the area around 1860. By the time the Civil War started, the town was beginning to grow around the county courthouse in Town Square. And by the early 1900s, the construction of Route 66 lent prosperity to the small town. When Fort Leonard Wood became a permament Army installation, the town's future was guaranteed.
Present-day Waynesville has retained its historic charm, while maintaining a great quality of life and looking toward the future.
Waynesville is the county seat for Pulaski County. As such it is an important government and commercial center in the region.
The Waynesville School District serves Waynesville, its sister city, St. Robert, and Fort Leonard Wood. It is recognized as one of the best school systems in Missouri.
Waynesville is located on Interstate 44 with two exits. One is also the new West Gate entrance to Fort Leonard Wood. State Highway 17 provides access north and south.
The city, in partnership with St. Robert, operates a regional airport at Fort Leonard Wood (tricode is TBN). The airport is all-weather and supports both daily scheduled commuter flights to/from St. Louis (American Connection) and general/business aviation. The Army has recently completed a major upgrade of the airfield, and city has applied for major FAA funding to upgrade the general aviation facilities.
Housing growth has been tremendous in the city and the immediate county area. Quality homes and apartment units can be found in every price range. You can live in the city, in the country or inbetween. Each has its advantages and anywhere you can find considerate neighbors who soon will be good friends.
Waynesville has a large city park located on the banks of the Roubidoux Creek. The creek itself is a regionally-famous trophy trout stream. The park has a fitness trail, swimming pool, picnic areas, pavillions, sports fields and playgrounds. The area abounds in outdoor recreation opportunites - hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing to name a few.
The city is host to a number of festivals and other events during the year which celebrate the city's colorful history or mark the seasons. Events include Old Settlers' Day, the Frog Fest and Christmas on the Square.
If you are attracted to the Fort Leonard Wood Region, please come and check us out. We offer the best the region has to offer in the middle of it all.
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