Waynesville Square

Waynesville serves as the county seat, is named after "Mad Anthony" Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero, and the city is as rich in history as its name suggests. Founded in 1833, Waynesville is one of the oldest cities in Pulaski County. A trading post for trappers and pioneers, encampment for the Trail of Tears, host of battles and skirmishes during the Civil War, Waynesville still bustles with activity. The tourist district offers gift shops, eateries, sweets, even 66 beers on tap!

Stop in any one of the businesses to pick up your copy of the Waynesville Downtown Walking Tour to learn more about the historic sites. Or visit our online interactive map!

This is also the location of the signing of legislation reconizing Missouri's 66 as an historic byway.

According to the City of Waynesville website; "Five years after U.S. Highway 66 was decommissioned, on July 10, 1990, Missouri became the first state to award the highway historic status. A legislative bill, sponsored by Missouri State Representatives Jim Mitchell of Richland and J. Dan Woodall of Springfield, won unanimous support in the General Assembly. The bill was signed by then Governor John Ashcroft during a ceremony held on the lawn of the Pulaski County Courthouse in downtown Waynesville. On the day of the signing, Governor Ashcroft said he hoped the official designation would stir nostalgia and recreate interest in Route 66 and the small towns located along it. Governor Ashcroft's prediction, nearly 30 years ago, has been realized. Missouri's recognition of the Mother Road helped to spur the Route 66 survival."

Image courtesy of the Terry Primas & John Bradbury collection