American Indians, Trappers and Settlers
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
— Missouri State Parks —
The cultural history of the Ha Ha Tonka area is as spectacular as its natural features. The wooded hillsides and abundant wildlife first attracted many American Indians. According to local folklore, Ha Ha Tonka is an Osage Indian word for laughing waters. Many trappers and settlers also explored the beauty of the spring and surrounding valley.
The Post Office
The area once was known as
Gunter's Big Spring and its first
post office was established in
1872. In 1895, the post office
name was changed to Ha Ha
Tonka and it continued
operation until 1937.
The Old Mill
In 1830, a man named Garland established
the first permanent residence in the Ha Ha
Tonka area. On the lower end of the spring he
constructed a gristmill which was actually a
front for a short-lived counterfeiting operation.
After this clandestine business was discovered,
the mill was burned to the ground. In 1869,
Tom Garrison rebuilt a mill that served nearby
settlers for many years. That mill, pictured
here, stood until 1930.
Erected by Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Communications • Forts and Castles • Native Americans. A significant historical year for this entry is 1872.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 4 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Snyder's Legacy (here, next to this marker); One Man's Dream (here, next to this marker); Water: Sculpting The Landscape (within shouting distance of this marker); The Water Tower (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line).
Credits. This page was last revised on December 10, 2020. It was originally submitted on December 10, 2020, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 353 times since then and 46 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 10, 2020, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
