Carthage, MO Summary

The local marble that was used in the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City can also be seen in several Victorian buildings in Carthage’s historic square. The most unusual structure is the castle-like Jasper County Courthouse.

Notable former Carthage residents include Myra Belle Shirley (also known as Confederate spy and outlaw Belle Starr), as well as zoologist and nature television show host Marlin Perkins.

The town, located an hour’s drive west of Springfield in southwestern Missouri, was also the site of a Civil War battle. An interpretive shelter commemorates the event at the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. Elsewhere in and around town are markers explaining the various battle stages. Other periods of Carthage’s history are commemorated in the Powers Museum.

What draws most visitors to this town of 10,700 is the Precious Moments Chapel. Artist Samuel J. Butcher made his name and fortune with his distinctive drawings of wide-eyed children. His creations usually appear alongside inspirational messages on greeting cards and porcelain collectibles. Butcher opened the chapel in 1989. Its stained-glass windows and murals depict his Precious Moments children in biblical scenes. There is also a musical water and light show within a bronze sculpture garden.

Carthage and its surrounding area is serviced by buses and by Springfield Regional Airport.