A Proud Agricultural Tradition
Missouri has a proud agricultural tradition—one that stretches back nearly three centuries and continues to define the state today. Agriculture is more than an industry in Missouri; it is woven into the state’s identity, culture, economy, and even its state symbolism.
Ceres Crowns the Capitol
Visitors to the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City often look up at the statue adorning the dome and assume they are seeing Lady Liberty. In fact, the figure is Ceres, the Roman goddess of growing vegetation.
The decision to place Ceres atop the Capitol dome reflects Missouri’s deep agricultural roots. As the goddess of crops and fertility, Ceres symbolizes the central role farming has played in shaping the state’s development and prosperity.
The First Farms: French Beginnings
Missouri’s agricultural story began around 1725, when French settlers established the first farms near St. Louis and along the Mississippi River.
The fertile soils and access to water made the Mississippi River corridor an ideal location for early agriculture. These first farms laid the groundwork for generations of producers who would expand westward and diversify production across the state.
Missouri’s National Ranking
Today, Missouri remains one of the most agriculturally significant states in the nation. According to the latest USDA Census of Agriculture, Missouri ranks second in the country in total number of farms—second only to Texas.
That ranking underscores the state’s commitment to family farms, rural communities, and a diverse agricultural economy. From crops to livestock, Missouri agriculture continues to be a cornerstone of both the state and national food system.
A Symbol of Enduring Agriculture
From French settlers in the 18th century to modern producers today, Missouri’s agricultural legacy remains strong. The statue of Ceres atop the Capitol dome stands as a powerful reminder that agriculture is not just history in Missouri—it is a living, enduring foundation of the state’s identity.
That’s today’s American Agriculture History Minute. I’m Mark Oppold.