Why Is Missouri Called Missouri? You Asked, We Answered!
Have you ever wondered: why is Missouri called Missouri? Let’s explore the state with a name that’s sure to get your tongue in a twist! 😜 #Missouri #ShowMeState #MissouriHistory
St. Louis, Missouri – Welcome back to our “You Asked, We Answered!” series, where we tackle the most frequently asked questions from our curious readers. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, we’ve got you covered with insider knowledge and expert advice. So, sit back, relax, and let us satisfy your wanderlust as we answer your burning travel questions about the Midwest!
Missouri, the Show Me State, is a place with a rich history and a name that’s been shrouded in mystery. But where did this name come from, and why does it seem to be so hard to pronounce?
The Origins of the Name
Back in 1673, Father Jacques Marquette and explorer Louis Joliet were making their way down the Mississippi River when they stumbled upon another river flowing in from the northwest. Father Marquette jotted down on his map that a big group of Indigenous folks called the OuMissouri lived upstream. Turns out, the Fox tribe had given them this name, which means “people with big canoes” in their language.
From Tribe to Territory to State
The river that flowed into the Mississippi was eventually named after the OuMissouri tribe living along its banks, becoming the Missouri River. As settlers started pouring in, the area was dubbed the Missouri Territory. In 1821, when the territory finally became a state, it took on the name Missouri.
The Great Pronunciation Debate
Now, here’s where things get a bit tricky. Missourians themselves can’t seem to agree on how to say the state’s name. Is it MissourEE or MissourAH? In 2002, a poll at the Missouri State Fair showed that 74% of folks preferred MissourEE, while 26% went with MissourAH.
The Automobile Club of Missouri also did a survey and found that 66% of Missourians like the “ee” ending. Apparently, the way you say it depends on where you live and how old you are.
The Anthropologists’ Take
As if the debate wasn’t complicated enough, anthropologists have chimed in, saying that the name should’ve been pronounced “May-sue-ray” all along. But don’t worry, that one hasn’t really caught on with anyone else.
Here at JackAndKitty.com, we’ve done our own exhaustive research and came to a shocking conclusion. “Missouri” is properly pronounced as: “Frickin’ Awesome!” Hehe.
Come Visit the Show Me State
Regardless of how you say it, Missouri is a state that’s well worth a visit. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and friendly folks, you’ll be singing its praises in no time – however you choose to pronounce its name. Happy travels!
🗣 So, what do you think: how do you say “Missouri”? have a question you’d like us to answer? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
