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Jerome, Missouri: Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial

Rocky creations and metaphorical statues. Larry's self-portrait sculpture sits next to the entrance, offering a friendly wave to passers-by on Route 66. Larry died in 2003; the property is gradually being restored.

Address:
Hwy D, Jerome, MO
Directions:
I-44 exit 172 (Jerome). Turn north, then right at the T-intersection onto Hwy D toward Jerome. Trail of Tears Memorial is a few hundred yards on the left.
Hours:
Sa-Su 10-5 Local health policies may affect hours and access.
RA Rates:
Major Fun
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Visitor Tips and News About Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial

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Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial

The site is open now on Saturdays and Sundays and the young man who is working to restore the memorial hopes to extend hours into the week. You may be lucky enough to be invited for a tour in the off-hours if he sees you at the gate!

[Annie, 03/23/2023]

Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial.

Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial

Looks like the attraction is being updated, including hours open on the weekends. Appears as through someone is taking care of it; also, grass is mowed and there is a visitors sign-in book.

[Ron Renken, 06/09/2021]
Larry Baggett's Trail of Tears Memorial

Stopped June 26, 2019 -- looks like would be something interesting to see, but still not opened since Larry's death.

[Dawn Merva, 06/29/2019]

We keep this on the map so travelers can see the sculpture and the gate. Hoping it officially reopens to the public.

Trail of Tears Memorial and Herb Garden

I visited the Trail of Tears Memorial today. I was greeted by "Rock Man" Chris and Marie. They are restoring this place and they have stories to tell and hugs to give. Larry Baggett's statue has been restored -- he's got his head back -- as have many of the rock statues. Chris has restored much of the Chief statue. This place is amazing and well worth a visit.

[Denise, 06/08/2018]

Larry Baggett, who built the Memorial, died in 2003 and his handiwork had fallen into disrepair. We're glad to hear that it's being restored.

Trail Of Tears

The gate is still up, but there aren't any posted "No Trespassing" signs or anything. Poor Larry's statue is headless now, and if there was once a fountain it's gone now. We walked up far enough to see that the house was definitely occupied, but that made us kind of nervous so we thought we should probably skedaddle quick... right after we scurried up the hill to get a picture of that weird bull statue. About then our dog started barking, so my girlfriend and I sprinted for the car. In retrospect, I wish we'd had the courage to go knock on the door and ask about the place. Maybe next time....

[Amanda Lipton, 03/27/2016]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Devil's Elbow BridgeDevil's Elbow Bridge, Devil's Elbow, MO - 6 mi.
Cookin' from Scratch Chicken CarCookin' from Scratch Chicken Car, Uranus, MO - 9 mi.
Jurassic Diner DinosaursJurassic Diner Dinosaurs, St. Robert, MO - 9 mi.
In the region:
Kraken: Poolside Sea Monster, Jefferson City, MO - 46 mi.

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