George Washington Carver National Monument

LisaApril 24, 2020

After we explored Fort Scott National Historic Site, we headed across the border to the George Washington Carver National Monument. The sites are about 35 minutes apart. Wilson Creek National Battlefield is also pretty close by. I went to elementary school in Alabama, so I learned all about (or so I thought) George Washington Carver. This site sits on the farm where he grew up, and I learned a ton about him. It’s a very interesting site and worthwhile.

Address and Location

You’ll find the George Washington Carver National Monument at 5646 Carver Road in Diamond, Missouri. It’s near Joplin and not too far away from Springfield.

The birth cabin at George Washington Carver National Monument

Cost

Exploring the site is free.

Views from the George Washington Carver National Monument

What to do

Start in the Visitors’ Center. The main exhibit follows the timeline and main events of George Washington Carver’s life. He was born a slave and was raised by the family that owned him after his mother disappeared. From there, he headed to Iowa for college. I think most people associate Carver with peanuts. But he was a very talented artist and chemist and a devout Christian. The exhibit displays some of his personal belongings and a sampling of the things he accomplished.

The Visitors’ Center is also rather large. They have a bunch of classrooms, spaces, and displays for school-aged kids and activities. It would be a great location for field trips or home-school outings.

The main childhood home of George Washington Carver

From there, head out on the main trail around the farm. You’ll see the first cabin where George was born. Follow the trail to the main cabin on the property. The farm is really beautiful, and you’ll enjoy a pleasant walk. Most of the farm property has been preserved, and you can also pay respects at the family cemetery.