Founded in the 1700’s,
Bonne Terre is in the richest ore area of the world. The French called
the early settlement La Bonne Terre, "The Good Earth," in reference to
its vast mineral wealth.
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Bonne Terre was first settled by the French when lead was discovered.
The LaGrave Mines were established by 1825, yet no permanent homes
were built until after the Civil War.
The actual
town was formed in April, 1864, when St. Joseph Lead Company, Inc.
purchased 946 acres of land to begin mining operations.
The town was formed in 1864, but
not surveyed until 1880 and then incorporated in 1917. Bonne Terre
is the only town in the county to have the commission form of
government.
During early
mining the name "bonne terre" was given to the mine, owing to the fact
that much of the lead ore was found in small particles through clay
near the surface. These deposits, obtained by washing out the clay,
were called "bonne terre," meaning "good earth," to distinguish
them from the poor clay. The name attached itself to the "diggings"
and after awhile, the post office itself.
Rich in tradition, Bonne
Terre houses several historic buildings, including the Sheppard House,
Heritage Hall, Bonne Terre Memorial Library, and numerous Victorian
homes. |
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