Webb City, Missouri – The Mine Owner’s Town
As travelers journey along the iconic Route 66, the landscape transforms, revealing the rich history of mining country. Approaching Webb City and Joplin, Missouri, the evidence of this heritage is undeniable, with piles of chat and old mine tailings dotting the terrain, silent reminders of a bygone era.
Webb City, now largely a suburb of its larger neighbor, Joplin, possesses a unique narrative. Its origins lie in the fertile farmland owned by John Cornwall Webb. Webb, a transplant from Tennessee, arrived in Missouri in 1856. He initially cultivated approximately 200 acres, later expanding his holdings by an additional 120 acres. This expanded property would eventually become the foundation of the community that bears his name: Webb City, Missouri.
The transformation from agricultural land to a burgeoning mining town began in 1873. John Webb made a momentous discovery – lead ore lay beneath his cornfields. Recognizing the potential, he partnered with W.A. Daugherty to initiate mining operations. However, their early efforts were hampered by a persistent challenge: the mine continually flooded with water. Discouraged by this obstacle, Webb decided to relinquish his direct involvement. Two years later, he sold his interest and leased his land to Daugherty and G.P. Ashcroft, an experienced miner who brought valuable expertise to the venture.
Simultaneously, Webb envisioned a different kind of development. In July 1875, he platted the town of Webb City, Missouri, initially referred to as Webbville. The following year marked a significant turning point. The Center Creek Mining Company commenced operations on Webb’s land, triggering an influx of miners into the area. Many of these workers chose to reside in nearby Joplin, a town already known for its lively, if somewhat less reputable, atmosphere, characterized by gambling halls, saloons, and brothels.
In stark contrast to the transient and often rowdy nature of Joplin, the mine owners established their residences in the more prosperous and orderly Webb City, Missouri. The town quickly gained prominence, and in December 1876, it was officially incorporated. At the time, the population stood at approximately 700 residents. John Webb’s younger brother, Benjamin C. Webb, assumed the role of the town’s first mayor, solidifying the family’s influence in the nascent community.
A thriving business district soon emerged, driven by the economic opportunities presented by the mining boom. John Webb played a crucial role in this development, generously donating land for the construction of a school and the first Methodist Episcopal Church. He also spearheaded the construction of the first brick home, the first brick commercial building, and the town’s first hotel, setting a precedent for future development. Soon after, other businesses rapidly followed suit, including the establishment of a much-needed hospital.
Further bolstering Webb City, Missouri’s growth, the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway extended its lines to the town in 1879, providing crucial transportation links for both people and goods. The Missouri Pacific Railroad followed suit two years later, further solidifying Webb City’s position as a regional transportation hub. By 1880, the town’s population had swelled to nearly 1,600 residents, reflecting its increasing economic importance. In January 1882, John Webb, along with his son, Elijah, established the Webb City Bank, a testament to their commitment to the community’s financial stability. Following John Webb’s death the following year, his son, Elijah, took over the reins of the bank, which continued to operate for many years. Like many small financial institutions, it was eventually acquired by a larger corporation.
The late 19th century witnessed further advancements in transportation. In 1889, A.H. Rogers introduced a horse-drawn streetcar line connecting Carterville and Webb City, Missouri. This rudimentary system was transformed in 1893 with the advent of the Southwest Missouri Electric Railway, which extended its operations to Joplin and Carterville. This pioneering interurban railway system expanded even further in the following years, reaching Carthage, Missouri, and Galena, Kansas, connecting the various communities within the burgeoning mining district.
The success of the "Yellow Dog," the first sheet ground mine in the area, ignited an unprecedented economic boom in the 1890s. By 1896, the Webb City-Carterville-Prosperity District boasted an impressive 700 mines. These mines collectively produced a staggering $23 million worth of lead and zinc between 1894 and 1904, although their peak production would not be reached until 1918. The same year, the co-educational Webb City College was founded, further contributing to the town’s development and educational opportunities.
Elijah Webb, son of the town’s founder, continued to manage the family’s extensive land and mineral interests, leasing them to numerous operators. His success in these ventures allowed him to amass a considerable fortune. During the last decade of the 19th century, he commissioned the construction of a magnificent Queen Anne-style home. This impressive residence featured two stories, soaring 12-foot ceilings, intricately inlaid wood floors, three fireplaces, elegant oak trim, and all the refinements befitting a man of his stature. The Elijah Webb residence is just one of several historic homes that still stand in Webb City, Missouri today, a tangible link to the town’s prosperous past. It was recognized for its historical significance and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in July 2020.
As the 20th century dawned, Webb City, Missouri continued its upward trajectory. By the turn of the century, the town’s population had surpassed 9,000 residents, transforming it into a bustling center of commerce and activity.
The town’s infrastructure underwent a significant transformation as wooden buildings were replaced with more durable brick structures. The Newland Hotel, a grand establishment boasting 100 rooms, was constructed, providing lodging for travelers and visitors. Eighteen churches catered to the spiritual needs of the growing population. An Opera House, capable of seating 1,500 people, provided a venue for entertainment and cultural events. Four banks offered financial services, while two railroad depots facilitated the movement of people and goods. Numerous other businesses thrived, contributing to the town’s economic vitality. The city also invested in essential infrastructure, including a fire department, paved streets, electric lights, a modern waterworks system, a comprehensive sewer system, and two telephone companies, solidifying its status as a modern and progressive community.
In 1903, the Southwest Missouri Electric Railway further expanded its network, constructing a loop line through Duenweg. In 1906, the line was extended north to Alba and became known as the Webb City Northern. With Webb City, Missouri serving as its central hub, numerous facilities were established, including offices, a powerhouse, and car barns located on Madison Street between Broadway and Daugherty Streets.
In 1910, the Southwest Missouri Electric Railway built a Clubhouse for its employees, providing a space for them to relax and socialize between shifts. The clubhouse was equipped with showers, beds, card tables, and pool tables, offering a respite from the demanding work of the railway. Adjacent to the railroad operations was a large surface mine known as the Sucker Flats Mine. This area saw the development of a secondary business district, featuring a variety of restaurants, retail businesses, and light industries.
Today, this area is known as King Jack Park. A fully restored streetcar operates on special occasions, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s transportation history. The original depot now houses the Webb City Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as a visitor center and promoting local businesses. The first floor of the powerhouse and the clubhouse are still in use today. The powerhouse now houses a skating rink, while the clubhouse serves as the headquarters of the Webb City Historical Society, preserving and celebrating the town’s rich heritage.
In 1914, the Webb City Public Library was established at Liberty and First Streets, providing access to knowledge and resources for the community. The library continues to operate today and is also home to the Webb City Area Genealogical Society, assisting individuals in researching their family histories. World War I erupted that same year, placing immense demands on the mining industry. The mines in Webb City, Missouri were extremely busy producing minerals essential for the war effort. During this period, the zinc and lead concentrate produced in the Webb City-Carterville-Prosperity District was valued at more than $18 million, and the city’s population surged to approximately 15,000 people. The Southwest Missouri Railroad network expanded further, reaching Galena and Baxter Springs, Kansas, and Picher, Oklahoma, in 1917. By this time, the electric railroad line encompassed 94 miles, serving the entire Tri-State Mining Field.
However, Webb City, Missouri’s boom days were nearing their end. When the war concluded in 1918, the mining industry experienced a significant decline due to the falling price of ore and the discovery of richer ore deposits in Oklahoma. In response, the citizens of Webb City diversified their economy, venturing into industrial and agricultural production. Several factories were enticed to establish operations in the city, producing a variety of goods, including leather products, shirts, shoes, cigars, boxes, and caskets. This diversification proved successful, and in 1920, Webb City earned the distinction of increasing its industries more than any other city in the United States, achieving an impressive growth rate of 250 percent. The area also expanded into the gravel industry, shipping countless tons of gravel, chat, and sand nationwide. During the 1930s and World War II, explosives were manufactured by powder plants located near Webb City, Missouri, further contributing to the war effort.
Meanwhile, the rise of automobiles and buses led to the decline of the streetcar era. The Southwest Missouri Electric Railway discontinued all of its routes in 1939. Although mining continued for some years after World War II, it eventually ceased altogether.
In 1926, Route 66 was established, passing directly through Webb City, Missouri’s downtown area. Following World War II, increased automobile ownership and improved infrastructure encouraged people to travel more extensively than ever before. Businesses catering to the needs of travelers sprang up along the famous highway.
After the cessation of mining operations, Webb City continued to diversify its economy, but the city experienced a period of decline, losing population and businesses. However, in recent years, the city has experienced a resurgence, attracting new businesses and a new generation of Route 66 travelers. Today, the town is home to approximately 11,000 residents.
The historic Route 66, often called the Mother Road, runs directly through downtown Webb City and is prominently marked with signage. Several historic buildings can still be seen, offering glimpses into the town’s past. The Route 66 Center, housed in a renovated old gas station, is located at the corner of Webb and Broadway Streets. The Center provides information, Route 66 displays, and offices for the Chamber of Commerce. The focal point of the center is a mural by Mayor John Biggs, measuring 8 feet tall and 16 feet wide, depicting 1940s travelers along old Route 66. Visitors can also enjoy movies at the Route 66 Theater, located at 24 S. Main, one block off Route 66. The theater is situated within the historic Newland Hotel building.
As you explore Webb City, Missouri, keep an eye out for several beautiful murals created by local artists, adding vibrant color and artistic expression to the town’s landscape. A 30-foot oil painting depicting the city’s history is proudly displayed inside the Webb City Bank. The city is characterized by its historic Victorian architecture. Two distinctive art pieces can be found at the southern end of Main Street: the Kneeling Miner and the Praying Hands, a striking statue that stands 32 feet high and weighs over 100 tons. The Praying Hands are positioned on a hill in King Jack Park, just behind the railroad tracks. Visitors can also explore the Southwest Missouri Electric Railroad Association’s trolley, the Mining Days Community Building and Amphitheatre, the old trolley depot (now home to the Chamber of Commerce), the powerhouse, and the Employee Clubhouse, which houses the Webb City Historical Society.
The city also honors its war heroes in three locations. Mount Hope Cemetery features an outdoor chapel and a Veteran’s Memorial inscribed with the names of the 77 Missouri Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Memorial Park is home to a World War II Memorial bearing the names of the Webb City servicemen and women who lost their lives in various conflicts. Just west of the Praying Hands, a World War II howitzer stands in silent vigil, commemorating the service and sacrifice of those who have served their country.
After experiencing all that Webb City, Missouri has to offer, Route 66 continues south on US-71 Business Route (Madison Street) into Joplin, Missouri, the self-proclaimed lead mining capital of the world.