Meramec Caverns - Stanton, MO
N 38° 14.487 W 091° 05.515
15S E 666981 N 4234326
Meramec Caverns is a 26 mile cavern system in the Ozarks of Missouri, USA. It was formed from large limestone deposits over millions of years. Pre-Columbian Native American artifacts have been found in the caverns. Currently the caverns are a tourist attraction, with about 51 billboards along Interstate 44. It is considered one of the primary attractions along former U.S. Highway 66.
Waymark Code: WM1V10
Location: Missouri, United States
Date Posted: 07/10/2007
Views: 100
The Caverns have existed from the past 400 million years, slowly forming through deposits of limestone. Centuries ago, Native Americans used the cavern system for shelter.
During the 1700's, the cave was used for extracting saltpeter for the manufacture of gunpowder. In the Civil War era, the Union Army used the caves as a saltpeter plant, but was destroyed by Confederate soldiers, namely Jesse James. Reportedly, James and his brother and partner in crime Frank later used the caves as a hideout. One legend claims that the sheriff sat in front of the cave, waiting for Jesse and his pals to emerge, however, they had found another exit.
In 1933, Lester B. Dill, noted caveologist, discovered the seven upper levels of the Caverns. Further exploration revealed 26 miles of underground passages. Meramec Caverns was opened to the public in 1935 as a tourist attraction.
Americana: Roadside Attraction
Significant Interest: Natural Formation
Milestone or Marker: Other Icon
Web Site Address: [Web Link]
Address of Icon:
Stanton, MO USA
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