The Missouri Ghost Town That's Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip
By Liz Oliver|Published October 09, 2018
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
Interstates have long been to blame for the slow death of America’s small towns. Ghost towns have popped up all across the nation near old highways, but you’ll find some of the best forgotten towns along the old Route 66. When traveling down this old highway, you’ll encounter Red Oak II, a re-located ghost town that has slowly come back to life. It might just be the most unusual town in Missouri, and it’s perfect for an Autumn day trip.
Lowell Davis, an artist by trade, lived in the forgotten town of Red Oak, Missouri prior to World War II. By 1950 the town began to fade and by 1970, when Davis returned, the town was abandoned.
In 1987, Davis decided to bring his hometown back to life. Over the next few years, he personally moved buildings from Red Oak and other Ozark ghost towns to his farm, dubbing it Red Oak II.
Admission into this ghost town is completely free, although donations are appreciated. This strange little town is hauntingly beautiful and so fun to explore. Imagine gassing up at this iconic Route 66 station.
You'll feel right at home when you visit Red Oak II. Locals love to tell you about the history of the buildings, art, and vehicles. However, do remember to respect the privacy of those who live here.
At times Red Oak II feels like a scene out of Pleasantville. Yet, this picture perfect ghost town is real and it's the perfect location for an Autumn day trip.
Take Route 66 for an amazing scenic trip through Missouri to Carthage. Red Oak II is located just 4 miles from downtown Carthage. If you visit, you might just get to visit with Mr. Davis!
