Historic West Plains

Historic Downtown

The “Courthouse Square” Historic District in Downtown West Plains was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in July 2003. This designation recognizes the importance of the Courthouse Square and Washington Avenue in the history of West Plains. The National Park Service noted this designation was in part due to the unusual layout of the Court Square. It is a “Lancaster Plan”, named for an 18th century model first used in Lancaster, PA. Under this unusual plan, streets enter the square in the middle of each side and not in the corners as they do in most public squares.

A large majority of the buildings were built in the 40 years following the arrival of the railroad in 1885 and they reflect the town’s commercial and governmental importance in the early Ozarks. Downtown West Plains, Inc., promotes the historic preservation of its buildings, the restoration of its public places and sponsors cultural and recreational events.We hope you will visit our historic downtown soon.

West Plains Opera House

The West Plains Opera House is known as “The Jewel of the Square,” established in 1886. This historic building is the venue for spectacular weddings, receptions, concerts and the performing arts and seats approximately 420.

Downtown Antique Mall
http://users.townsqr.com/antiques/

The Antique Mall, located on the Court Square is filled with thousands of antiques and memorabilia. Comprised of individual vendors housed under one roof, the Antique Mall offers a very wide range of collectables and other fine objects of days gone by. The “Window on the Square” coffee bar is a new addition to the mall. You must put the Antique Mall on your list of must-sees when you’re in the area.

Historic Murals

Using as his theme and central image, “West Plains, A Family Portrait Album,” Michael McClure has created a series of twelve images. They depict successive time periods from the pristine state of nature to the arrival of Native Americans, then the first white settlers through the Civil War and on into the 20th century. A second mural entitled “Country Cookin” features the Ozarks’ rich musical heritage. Located on the square, these murals are sure to fascinate your entire family.