Discovering Bolivia, Missouri: A Midwest Gem's Location

Bolivar, Missouri is an idyllic city in the heart of Polk County, in the middle of Missouri. It is a thriving city with a population of 11,110 people, growing by 4% since the last count in 2020. Bolivar was founded on November 10, 1835, and is named after Bolivar, Tennessee, which was home to many of the original settlers. The city is filled with rich history and preservation of its landmarks and buildings, including the North Ward School (now the Polk County Museum), the Polk County Courthouse, and the First National Bank. Bolivar is also home to Southwest Baptist University, a private Christian college founded in 1878.

Bolivar, Missouri's location and county

Bolivar, Missouri, is a city in the middle of Missouri and the county seat of Polk County. The city has existed since 10 November 1835, when it was proclaimed by the Polk County Court during the Andrew Jackson administration. Bolivar was named after Bolivar, Tennessee, which was home to many of the town's original settlers. The name was proposed by John Polk Campbell and his brothers William St. Clair and Ezekiel Madison, after their grandfather, Ezekiel Polk, who lived in Bolivar, Tennessee, and served in the army of General George Washington in the Revolutionary War. The name also honours the liberator, Simón Bolívar, a South American historical figure.

The city of Bolivar is filled with rich history and preservation of its landmarks and buildings. The streets of Bolivar are not aligned in a perfect north-south direction. Instead, they are offset by about 22 degrees to the west, following the trail used by the Overland Stage, also known as the Oregon Stage Line, a wagon trail. Bolivar's location was also influenced by Keeling Spring, a stop along the Butterfield Stage Company route.

Bolivar experienced significant growth in 1884 with the extension of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway to the city. According to the United States Census Bureau, Bolivar covers a total area of 8.30 square miles (21.50 square kilometres), with a population of 10,679 people as of the 2020 census. The population density was 1,299.1 per square mile (501.6/square kilometre). Bolivar is known for being the location of Southwest Baptist University, a private Christian college founded in 1878. The city was ranked 87th on a list of 100 Best Small Towns in America in 1995.

The city's history and naming

Bolivia, Missouri, is nestled in the heart of the state, within Crawford County. The city was established in 1835 and incorporated in 1877. The founding fathers of the city chose the name Bolivia to honor the South American country, which had gained its independence from Spain in 1825. The choice of name was likely influenced by the spirit of the time, as the United States itself was a young nation, having gained independence just a few decades prior. There may also have been a practical reason for the naming—it helped to avoid confusion with other towns named Crawford already existing in Missouri.

The early days of Bolivia were marked by steady growth and the development of a strong agricultural industry. The city became a hub for grain production and processing, with several mills operating in the area. This thriving industry formed the backbone of the local economy and attracted settlers to the region. The city's location, with access to water sources and fertile land, made it an ideal spot for farming and commerce.

As the city grew, it became a vibrant community with a diverse range of residents. The influence of the German community was particularly significant, with many German immigrants settling in the area and contributing to the city's culture and development. The German impact can still be felt in the city today, with certain traditions and heritage events celebrated by the locals.

The name Bolivia has certainly left its mark on the city and continues to be a point of interest. The unique moniker has helped foster a sense of community and identity, with residents taking pride in their city's distinct name. Over the years, the city has also been referred to as "Boliva," a variation that has appeared on some maps and documents, adding a layer of intrigue to the city's story.

The history of Bolivia, Missouri, is a rich tapestry, reflecting the hard work, determination, and spirit of its residents. The naming of the city is a unique aspect of its story, connecting it to a broader global context and the spirit of independence. The city has grown and evolved over the years, but its name remains a constant reminder of its fascinating past.

Population and racial makeup

Bolivar, Missouri is a city and county seat of Polk County, located in the middle of Missouri. The city has a total area of 8.30 square miles (21.50 km2), of which 8.28 square miles (21.45 km2) is land and 0.02 square miles (0.05 km2) is water. Bolivar is part of the Springfield, Missouri Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The 2020 United States census counted 10,679 people, 4,066 households, and 2,439 families in Bolivar. The population density was 1,299.1 per square mile (501.6/km2). There were 4,441 housing units at an average density of 540.3 units per square mile (208.6 units/km2). The racial makeup was 89.98% (9,609) white, 1.78% (190) black, 0.71% (76) Native American, 0.75% (80) Asian, 0.04% (4) Pacific Islander, 0.88% (94) from other races, and 5.86% (626) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race made up 3.9% (431) of the population.

Of the 4,066 households, 30.3% had children under the age of 18, with an average household size of 2.4 and an average family size of 3.0. The median age in the city was 29.5 years, with a gender makeup of 84.0 males for every 100 females.

Compared to the 2010 census, the city has experienced a slight increase in population and a slight decrease in population density. In 2010, there were 10,325 people, 3,970 households, and 2,342 families in Bolivar. The population density was 1,247.0 inhabitants per square mile (481.5/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 94.8% White, 1.5% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race made up 2.5% of the population.

The 2000 census showed a lower population of 9,143 people, 3,318 households, and 2,067 families in Bolivar. The population density was 1,458.8 inhabitants per square mile (563.2/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 96.50% White, 0.86% African American, 0.60% Native American, 0.38% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.42% from other races, and 1.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race made up 1.40% of the population.

Education and Southwest Baptist University

Southwest Baptist University (SBU) is a private Christian college with campuses in Bolivar, Springfield, Salem, and Mountain View, Missouri. It was founded in 1878 in Lebanon, Missouri, by Abner S. Ingman and James R. Maupin, and moved to Bolivar in 1879. The university has been affiliated with the Missouri Baptist Convention, which is part of the Southern Baptist Convention.

SBU offers more than 100 college degree programs with an average class size of 20 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. The university's acceptance rate is 100%, and in 2023, it had a total enrollment of 2,168 students. Popular majors include Nursing, Business, and Psychology. SBU's athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC).

The Shoffner campus in Bolivar, which opened in 1962, is home to several notable buildings, including Beasley Hall, Landen Hall, Leslie Hall, the Goodson Student Union, and the Wayne and Betty Gott Educational Center. The Jane and Ken Meyer Wellness and Sports Center, which opened in 2005, features an indoor track, gym, pool, café, and racquetball courts.

Bolivar itself is a city in Polk County, Missouri, with a population of around 10,000 to 11,000 people. The city has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1835, and is known for its well-preserved landmarks and buildings.

Attractions and things to do

Bolivar, Missouri, is a city steeped in history, with carefully preserved landmarks and buildings. The city was established in 1835 and has a rich heritage that is reflected in its streets, architecture, and culture. Here are some attractions and things to do in Bolivar that showcase its unique character:

• Explore the Historic Streets: Stroll through the charming streets of Bolivar, such as Jefferson, Mill, and Jackson, which were developed along the trail of the Overland Stage, also known as the Oregon Stage Line. The unique orientation of these streets, offset by about 22 degrees west of true north, adds to the town's character.
• Visit the Polk County Courthouse: Located in the heart of Bolivar, the Polk County Courthouse serves as the focal point of the city and the centre of business for Polk County. It is a place of historical significance and administrative importance.
• Discover the North Ward School and Polk County Museum: This educational and historical site, located on West Locust Street, was constructed in 1902 and has played a vital role in the town's past. It is now home to the Polk County Museum, where you can delve into Bolivar's history.
• Step into the Bolivar Public Library: Recognised as a historic site, the Bolivar Public Library is a treasure trove of knowledge and a testament to the town's commitment to education and preservation.
• Admire the First National Bank: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the First National Bank, located near the County Courthouse, is a testament to Bolivar's architectural heritage and historical significance.
• Wander through Frisco Station: Frisco Station, also known as the Bolivar Missouri Depot, holds stories of the town's railway history. It served as a vital transport hub and a gateway to Bolivar in the past.
• Pay Respects to a Liberator: Statue of Simon Bolivar: The town's namesake, Simon Bolivar, is honoured with a statue. He was a liberator and a hero in South America, and his legacy is an integral part of Bolivar's identity.
• Tour Southwest Baptist University: Bolivar is home to the renowned Southwest Baptist University, which has been an integral part of the community since 1879. The university adds an academic dimension to the town and is a centre of higher learning.
• Relax in Dunnegan Memorial Park: As the biggest and oldest park in Bolivar, Dunnegan Memorial Park offers a peaceful escape within the city. It is a place for recreation, reflection, and appreciation of the town's natural beauty.
• Stroll through the Main Historic Square: The central square of Bolivar is a hub of activity and a testament to the town's historical fabric. It is a great place to start your exploration, offering insights into the town's past and present.

Bolivar, Missouri, offers a blend of history, culture, and community. By exploring these attractions, you can uncover the unique character and charm that make Bolivar a special place to visit.

Frequently asked questions