(Jane, MO) – Crowder College McDonald County is unveiling the new McDonald County Secession Exhibit, a local historical display created in collaboration with multiple, passionate hands. This includes local historian, Crowder alumni and current Missouri Southern State University student; Amy Carr as well as Dr. Denna Clymer, Crowder College Social Science Division Chair, and with support from Robin Chapman with the McDonald County Historical Society.
“I appreciate the work of our faculty, staff, and former students and their collaboration with the McDonald County Historical Society to share this exhibit with the public,” said Crowder College President, Dr. Chett Daniel who supported this project through his existing work and collaborative efforts regarding the economic and social impact of the I-49 corridor to our neighboring region of northwest Arkansas. “The exhibit illustrates how storytelling, collaboration, and advocacy can be leveraged to meet community and regional goals.”
“I would like to thank Dr. Clymer for letting me work on this project,” said Amy Carr, local historian, Crowder alumni, and current Missouri Southern State University student. “I really learned a lot about all that is required to produce a historical display like this. I also learned more about McDonald County history at the same time. I hope that the community and future students enjoy the story of life here in the 1960s.”
The exhibit explores one of the likely lesser-known events in the county’s history when McDonald County “seceded” from Missouri in the early 1960s.
“With the McDonald County Secession Exhibit returning home to Tatum Hall, it stands as a testament to the hardworking, collaborative spirit that has always defined McDonald County. Amy, Dr. Clymer, Robin, and the rest of the McDonald County Historical Society deserve the opportunity to have those very traits of their own on display — and this exhibit provides just that,” said Aaron Divine, Crowder College McDonald County Site Director and adjunct History faculty. “But what’s showcased here goes beyond the dedication of our local historians. It serves as a tongue-in-cheek reflection of what makes the Ozarks both celebrated and, at times, misunderstood. It’s a humorous tribute to grassroots activism, perseverance, and the unmistakable pride that the people of this region wear on their sleeves. It reminds us that the arbitrary lines drawn by men in suits in places like Oklahoma City, Little Rock, and Jefferson City often do more to bind us together than to keep us apart.”
The exhibit offers historical documents, photographs, and artifacts that highlight the local “Secession movement,” while depicting how local citizens responded to being left off a state tourism map by “forming” their own independent territory.
The unveiling event will be held at Crowder College McDonald County, November 5 at 2:00 pm, and will include brief remarks from Crowder College leadership. Light refreshments will be served following the program.
The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm at Crowder College McDonald County, located at 194 College Rd, Jane, MO 64856. This exhibit will become a permanent fixture at Crowder College McDonald County following the unveiling.
About Crowder College:
Crowder College was established in April 1963, as the voters of Newton and McDonald counties passed the issue to create a community college (formerly junior college) on the land formerly known as Camp Crowder. Today, the college provides services to a nine-county service region in southwest Missouri with locations in Neosho, Cassville, Joplin, McDonald County, Nevada and Webb City. The student population exists from within the four-state region, and around the globe. With over 80 degree and program options, the college is a great place to train for a career or transfer to a university.
Reference:
Public Information Office
Crowder College
417.451.3223
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