Welcome to the Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization
Our vision as an organization is to reflect that we are a vibrant, bustling, pedestrian-oriented community. We offer a variety of activities and experiences that support existing businesses and attract new ones while drawing visitors as well as past and present residents. We strive to preserve the character of an outstanding community with unique qualities to be treasured, occasionally polished, and frequently put on display.
Our office is at 100 North Missouri Street, Jackson, MO 63755
Our office hours are 10-3 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday or by appointment
We are also available Monday-Friday 8am-5pm by phone or email
History of
Jackson
Jackson began in 1814 as a settlement on the elevated land between Hubble and Goose Creeks. Not yet known as Jackson, the original site was selected for the county seat of the newly named Cape Girardeau County. A delegation of five men were selected to negotiate the purchase of a fifty-acre site from William H. Ashley and his wife Mary (nee, Able) for $500.
The pioneer families living in the area debated what to name the new seat of justice. Ashley? Lorimier? Many favored naming the town in honor of General Andrew Jackson. At an Independence Day celebration the name Jackson was selected, and by December, 1814, lots were being sold. Almost immediately Jackson outgrew the 50 acres and additional land began being added.
In 1818 a federal land office was established and the first courthouse, a two-story frame structure, was built. Jackson then had a population of 300 and supported five stores, two shoemakers, and a tannery. In 1819 the first newspaper in Southeast Missouri, the Missouri Herald, was published in Jackson. In 1877 Jackson was linked to Cape Girardeau by the first long distance telephone service line in Missouri.
From these humble beginnings, Jackson has grown in all directions from the courthouse square to a current population of over 15,000 and an area more than 7,000 acres. The history does not end there. Today’s growth is forging tomorrow’s history as Jackson continues to grow and prosper.
IMMERSE YOURSELF
As a Missouri Main Street Associate program, Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization is a recognized, leading program among the state network of more than 45 districts and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. As a Main Street America Affiliate™, Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization is part of a national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.
CONTACT US
Uptown Jackson Revitalization Organization
100 North Missouri Street
Jackson, MO 63755
573-200-6542
573-833-0687