Hollister, Missouri is known as Missouri’s Southern Gateway to the Ozarks, making it a gateway retirement community. Senior Travel Genie has resources for resorts, golf courses and more in Hollister. The town is a remarkable community with a rich history.

Hollister MO History

With the establishment of the first US Land Office in Springfield in 1835 came a migration of rugged pioneer families into the virgin Ozark wilderness of Southwest Missouri. Malinda Fortner was one of these early pioneers. The original 120-acre tract of land on which she established her claim in 1867 was the beginning for this crossroads settlement.

Rueben Kirkham opened a general store and applied to the Post Office Department for permission to establish a Post Office suggesting the name Hollister after the birthplace of his daughter in Hollister, California. Permission was granted and in 1904 the name of the Ozarks settlement was established.

W.H. Johnson and Professor J.W. Blankenship platted and started the major development of a beautiful English style village which attracted visitors from all over the world. Johnson's dream resulted in the row of quaint Elizabethan structures which is now part of Downing Street. His son W.W. Johnson, built the historic Ye English Inn in 1912 and it became a stopover for travelers with special trains bringing visitors to the remote area.

Hollister Missouri – Golf & Fishing Retirement Community

Today, Hollister, Missouri is a popular vacation and retirement area for seniors. Senior Travel Genie will help you plan your next stay with resources for resorts, restaurants and more.