History of Caves in the St. Joseph, Missouri area

For millions of years caves in Missouri existed in perpetual night. Dwight: Certainly Missouri cavern resources have been utilized from the very beginning of time, when man went into Missouri and they continue to be used to this really day. In the 1700's settlers from the east started to enter the state of Missouri.

Like the Native Americans prior to them, they used caves for shelter and security, however they found another resource in caves required for survival. The development of communities brought on new requirements and brand-new usages were found for Missouri's caves.

The turmoil of the Civil War, brought violence and turmoil to the state, and Missouri's caves were no exception. Dwight: At this time, in Missouri history caves were commercialized. In lots of ways they modified the caverns, they put in walkways, they put in platforms, and they utilized the caves for dance halls, beer gardens and roller rinks, all kinds of social activities.

Following World War II when we had much better roadways, better highways and much better vehicles, they started to open caves for tourism. There's been no time at all since the start of this duration that we haven't had at least two lots show caves open up to the public. Missouri's cavern resources do not stop with the industrial caverns. These underground sanctuaries offer a distinct ecosystem for dozens of unique animals. They are important living labs; a location to study our groundwater resources. When light penetrates the darkness, the results can be astounding.

Dwight: Certainly Missouri cavern resources have been made use of from the very beginning of time, when guy went into Missouri and they continue to be used to this very day. Like the Native Americans prior to them, they utilized caves for shelter and defense, however they discovered another resource in caves essential for survival. The development of neighborhoods brought on new requirements and new usages were discovered for Missouri's caves. In numerous methods they modified the caves, they put in walkways, they put in platforms, and they used the caves for dance halls, beer gardens and roller rinks, all kinds of social activities.

Missouri's cave resources don't stop with the industrial caverns.