The Andrew County Courthouse in Savannah stands at the intersection of Fourth and Main Streets and was built in 1899. It is listed on the National Register. Near Rea, the J.F. Roberts Octagonal Barn stands at the intersection of MO B and MO 48; it is also listed there. A courthouse and a barn offer two distinct ways to explore Andrew County’s built heritage: one stands in Savannah, the other near Rea.
History Through Buildings and a Museum
At the Andrew County Museum, the focus shifts from individual places to a longer historical span. The “A Rural Way of Life” exhibit presents Andrew County’s heritage from 1841 through the 21st century. Groups can explore the exhibits with self-guided activities and themed programs; advance reservations are required. The exhibit complements the individual structures with a broad view of the county’s heritage.
Plains and River Landscapes
Andrew County’s glacial plains support fertile livestock, grain, and fruit farms. This combination gives the landscape a distinctly agricultural character: land use includes livestock, grain, and fruit growing. Together with the historic sites, this offers another perspective on the county—through its broad plains and their agricultural use.
The natural areas also offer distinct features. Happy Holler Lake Conservation Area provides wildlife habitat in upland and floodplain areas. In Nodaway Valley Conservation Area, a four-mile stretch of the Nodaway River flows through the middle of the area. Worthwine Island Conservation Area preserves unique wetlands and Missouri River habitats. A main channel was restored there in 2007, recreating the island portion and an aquatic habitat separated from the main channel. While the Nodaway River flows through a conservation area as a long stretch, the restoration at Worthwine Island tells a story of changes to a river and island habitat.
Fishing and Golf History
The fishing options also differ. In the Savannah area (Duncan Park South Pond), two ponds are open to public fishing; fishing regulations are posted on site. The 67-acre Happy Holler Lake in Andrew County offers fishing for Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Crappie, and Largemouth Bass. This means there are two ponds, alongside a lake with a specifically named selection of fish species. Fishing conditions and views can change; check current conditions before your visit.
Duncan Hills Golf Course adds its own development story to these nature and history themes. The course opened as a 9-hole facility in 1976 and expanded to 18 holes in 1993. The municipal golf course is owned and operated by the City of Savannah. Its clearly defined timeline offers another perspective on the history of the county and the city.
Discover more destinations: Cosby, Rea, Wright County, Cape Girardeau County, Miller County, Linn County, Ripley County, Gasconade County
For the main travel overview: Missouri.
