The History of Callaway County began way before written history was recorded here. Myth and Legend blend with fact and the earliest recorded item was in 1800 when a land grant was issued to Baptiste Douchoquette. A French trading post and settlement began on what was referred to as Cote Sans Dessein.

In the fall of 1815 John Ham and Jonathan Crow located on the Big Auxvasse Creek. They were probably the first permanent residences for several years. Capt. Patrick Ewing built the first residence recorded in 1816 near Mokane, MO. and during that same year Joseph Evans and Col. Nathan Boone surveyed and sectionized most of the county.

Callaway County was organized on November 25, 1820 and named for Captain James Callaway who was killed in a fight with Indians near Loutre Creek. Captain Callaway was the grandson of Daniel Boone. The county-seat was established at Elizabeth (named in honor of Mrs. Henry Brite). The first circuit court was held in the home of Henry Brite on February 5th, 1821 with the Honorable Rufus Pettibone presiding. The county-seat remained in Elizabeth until 1826 when it was moved to what is now Fulton.

The railroad played a big part in the early history of the county. Rails crossed from East to West and from North to South. Many current communities exist where railway stations were located.

Agriculture and industry are both a part of the history and current prosperity of the citizens. Mules were the primary export in the 1800's and school was in session from Tuesday through Saturday to accommodate sale days on Monday.

Today, Callaway County is one of the largest counties in the State of Missouri with more four lane highway than any other county outside the metropolitan areas. The economy is a diverse mixture of education, industry, agriculture and business. The county continues to grow and provide it's residents with a secure future.