Sedalia, Missouri is located in Pettis County, and this small city has played a role in history that could have never been predicted. As an inhabitant of this great town, there are sights to explore and stories to uncover about its extraordinary past.
Sedalia’s name comes from founder General George R. Smith who named it after his daughter Sarah Sally Miller Smith-Dalton. The city was eventually incorporated on March 24th, 1857 with only 500 citizens at the time. It continued to grow over the years becoming known as the “Queen City of the Prairies” due to its flourishing economy and rapid growth until World War 1 when population numbers began to decline.
The city is also renowned for being home to nationally recognized musicians such as Ragtime legend Scott Joplin and jazz musician Count Basie, both have streets named after them within Sedalia’s downtown district today. In addition, many other musical acts have performed here including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and John Mellencamp just to name a few! These attractions make Sedalia unique compared to other cities across America; visitors will find plenty of entertainment options while exploring its vibrant culture.