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become a travel agent in Missouri
  1. How to Become a Travel Agent in Missouri
    1. Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
      1. Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
      2. Benefits of Being a Travel Agent in Missouri
    2. Legal and Regulatory Requirements
      1. Obtaining an IATA Number
      2. Working with a Host Agency
    3. Education and Training
      1. Formal Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent
      2. Travel Agent Training Programs in Missouri
      3. Certification Options: CTA, GTP, CTC, CTIE, VTA
      4. Online and On-Campus Training Opportunities
    4. Choosing a Host Agency
      1. Benefits of Host Agencies: Resources, Support, and IATA Number
      2. Popular Host Agencies in Missouri
      3. Evaluating Host Agency Programs and Services
    5. Training and Certification Programs
      1. Comprehensive Training Courses: Content and Duration
      2. Advanced Certification and Ongoing Training
      3. Preparing for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Test
    6. Building Your Travel Agency Business
      1. Marketing and Client Acquisition Strategies
      2. Leveraging Local Knowledge for Missouri Travel
      3. Managing Client Relationships and Customer Service
      4. Financial Management and Commission Structures
    7. Maintaining and Advancing Your Career
      1. Continuous Education and Industry Updates
      2. Networking Opportunities in the Travel Industry
      3. Expanding Your Services: Niche Travel and Specializations

How to Become a Travel Agent in Missouri

Becoming a travel agent in Missouri is an exciting and rewarding career path that allows you to turn your passion for travel into a fulfilling business. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to plan and book trips for clients, from arranging flights and accommodations to organizing activities and excursions. This role not only offers a flexible schedule but also the chance to leverage your local knowledge to create unique travel experiences within Missouri and beyond.

Understanding the Role

A travel agent's primary responsibilities include working closely with clients to understand their vacation needs and handling all the travel arrangements. This involves booking flights, hotels, and activities, as well as providing exceptional customer service to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for your clients.

No Formal Certification Required

In Missouri, you do not need a formal travel agent certification or accreditation to start your career. However, having a certification can significantly enhance your professional profile and instill confidence in your clients. Certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Global Travel Professional (GTP), Certified Travel Consultant (CTC), Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE), and ASTA Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) are highly recommended.

Joining a Host Agency

A crucial step in becoming a travel agent in Missouri is joining a host business. A host business provides the necessary resources, support, and access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel agent. Host agencies like Fora and LuxRally Travel offer comprehensive training programs, marketing support, and access to booking systems and partner programs, making it easier for you to get started and succeed in your career.

Training and Development

Participating in a training program is vital to equip you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to run a successful travel advisory business. These programs often include seminars on customer service, booking procedures, and marketing strategies. For example, Fora offers a 40+ hour live training program, while LuxRally Travel provides a detailed online curriculum with self-guided lessons and video content covering various aspects of the travel industry.

Building Your Business

Once you have the right training and support, it's time to build your client base and grow your business. This involves leveraging your personal network, using marketing tools and social media, and attending industry events to network with other professionals. Effective customer service and creative marketing strategies are key to attracting and retaining clients and expanding your business.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent

Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent

A travel agent's role is multifaceted and rewarding. Primarily, travel agents earn their income by planning and booking trips for clients. This involves working closely with clients to understand their vacation needs and handling all the travel arrangements, including booking flights, hotels, and activities. Travel agents also organize excursions and provide recommendations based on their extensive knowledge of various destinations.

One of the critical aspects of a travel agent's job is providing exceptional customer service. This includes assisting clients with any issues that may arise during their trip, offering personalized travel advice, and ensuring that the travel experience is smooth and enjoyable. Additionally, travel agents must stay updated on the latest travel trends, promotions, and industry developments to offer the best possible service to their clients.

Benefits of Being a Travel Agent in Missouri

Being a travel agent in Missouri offers numerous benefits that make this career path highly appealing. One of the most significant advantages is the flexibility it provides. As a travel agent, you can often work from home or remotely, allowing for a better work-life balance. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who value the ability to manage their own schedules.

Another significant benefit is the opportunity to leverage your local knowledge to plan unique and personalized trips within Missouri. Whether it's organizing tours of St. Louis, visits to the Ozarks, or other local attractions, your insider knowledge can help you stand out and attract a loyal client base. This not only enhances your professional profile but also allows you to contribute to the local tourism industry.

Travel agents in Missouri can also secure exclusive deals and discounts through their connections with top travel suppliers, which can be passed on to clients, ensuring they receive the best value for their money.

Furthermore, being a travel agent can be a fulfilling career due to the joy of creating memorable travel experiences for others. Seeing clients return from their trips happy and satisfied is a rewarding aspect of the job that many travel agents cherish.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Obtaining an IATA Number

To conduct business as a travel agent in Missouri, you need to obtain an International Air Transport Association (IATA) number. This unique identifier is crucial for booking travel and earning commissions. While Missouri does not require formal certification to become a travel agent, having an IATA number is essential for legitimate operations.

You can obtain an IATA number through a host business or by applying directly to IATA if you are setting up your own independent travel business. Host agencies, such as Fora, often provide access to an IATA number as part of their support and resources for travel agents.

Working with a Host Agency

Working with a host business is a common and highly recommended approach for becoming a travel agent in Missouri. Host agencies provide a range of essential resources and support that can help you establish and grow your business. These resources include access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training.

A host business also provides the necessary IATA number, which is vital for conducting business as a travel agent. For example, Fora offers a comprehensive package that includes seminars, marketing tools, and ongoing training programs. This support helps you navigate the industry effectively and ensures you have the tools needed to succeed.

Host agencies like Fora also offer advanced certification programs and regular partner and destination trainings, which can further enhance your skills and knowledge in the travel industry.

In addition to the IATA number, host agencies often handle the administrative aspects, such as licensing and permits, allowing you to focus on building your client base and providing excellent customer service. This partnership can significantly streamline the process of setting up your travel business and ensure you comply with all regulatory requirements.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Education and Training

Formal Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent

To become a travel agent in Missouri, you do not need a formal college degree, but having a high school diploma or equivalent is highly recommended. This foundational education provides essential skills in communication, organization, and basic business principles that are valuable in the travel industry.

Travel Agent Training Programs in Missouri

Missouri offers several training programs specifically designed for aspiring travel agents. One notable program is the online travel agent course provided by Northwest Missouri State University. This self-paced course can be completed within six months, although you can finish it sooner if you prefer.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including popular domestic and international travel destinations, the travel industry (airlines, cruises, hotels, tours), customer service skills, and marketing strategies. Upon completion, you are eligible to take the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, which grants you a basic certification as a travel agent.

The cost of the course includes the fee for the TAP test, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective way to get started in your travel agent career.

Certification Options: CTA, GTP, CTC, CTIE, VTA

While certification is not mandatory to become a travel agent in Missouri, obtaining a professional certification can significantly enhance your career. There are several certifications available, each offering unique benefits and recognitions within the industry.

The Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and Global Travel Professional (GTP) certifications are highly regarded and demonstrate your expertise in travel planning and customer service. The Certified Travel Consultant (CTC) and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) certifications further advance your professional standing, showing a deeper understanding of the travel industry. The ASTA Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification is also a valuable credential that highlights your commitment to professional excellence.

Certification Benefits

Certifications instill confidence in your clients, showcasing your dedication and validated skills. They also provide a competitive edge and can lead to better job opportunities and higher earning potential.

Online and On-Campus Training Opportunities

In addition to the online course offered by Northwest Missouri State University, there are other training opportunities available both online and on-campus. For instance, host agencies like Fora provide comprehensive training programs that include seminars, live training sessions, and ongoing education.

Fora's initial certification program consists of over 40 hours of live, small-group training, along with access to recorded sessions. This flexible approach allows you to learn at your own pace and fit the training into your lifestyle. The program covers foundational topics such as customer service, booking procedures, and marketing strategies, as well as advanced training in partner and destination-specific knowledge.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Choosing a Host Agency

Benefits of Host Agencies: Resources, Support, and IATA Number

Joining a host business is a crucial step in becoming a successful travel agent in Missouri. Host agencies provide a plethora of benefits that are essential for starting and growing your travel business. One of the most significant advantages is the access to an IATA number, which is a unique identifier that allows you to conduct business as a travel agent and earn commissions on the travel you book.

Host agencies also offer comprehensive resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, and marketing support. These resources help you navigate the complex travel industry with ease and confidence. For example, Fora provides a one-stop shop with everything you need to get started, from seminars and live training sessions to ongoing education and advanced certification programs.

With a host business, you gain access to exclusive deals and discounts through their connections with top travel suppliers, which can be passed on to your clients, ensuring they receive the best value for their money.

Popular Host Agencies in Missouri

Several host agencies in Missouri are highly regarded for their support and resources. Fora is one such business that offers a comprehensive training program, including over 40 hours of live, small-group training and access to recorded sessions. This training covers foundational topics such as customer service, booking procedures, and marketing strategies.

LuxRally Travel is another popular option, known for its free online travel agent training course that takes between 50-70 hours to complete. This course includes self-directed learning and video content covering industry basics, destination geography, and advanced booking systems. LuxRally Travel also provides a strong community of travel advisors and ongoing support to help you succeed.

Host Agency Comparison
Comparison of Host Agencies in Missouri
Host Agency Training Program Resources and Support
Fora 40+ hours of live training, seminars, and ongoing education Access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and IATA number
LuxRally Travel Free online training course (50-70 hours), self-directed learning, and video content Access to CRM, proprietary booking engine, community support, and IATA number

Evaluating Host Agency Programs and Services

When evaluating host business programs and services, it is important to consider several key factors. First, look at the quality and comprehensiveness of the training program. A good host business should offer extensive training that covers both the basics and advanced aspects of the travel industry. For instance, Fora's training includes seminars on customer service, booking procedures, and marketing strategies, as well as ongoing training programs and advanced certifications.

Another crucial aspect is the level of support provided. This includes access to booking systems, partner programs, and marketing resources. LuxRally Travel, for example, offers a robust booking platform and connections with top travel suppliers, which can help you secure exclusive deals for your clients.

Evaluating the community support and ongoing education provided by the host business is also vital. A strong community of peers and continuous learning opportunities can significantly enhance your professional growth and success as a travel agent.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Training and Certification Programs

Comprehensive Training Courses: Content and Duration

To become a well-rounded travel agent in Missouri, it is essential to enroll in a comprehensive training program. One such program is offered by Northwest Missouri State University, which prepares you for the travel industry through an online course. This course takes around six months to complete, although you can finish it sooner if you prefer a faster pace.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including an introduction to the travel industry, building professional skills, understanding basic and international geography, and mastering transportation logistics. You will also learn about career development, sales and marketing in travel, and how to provide exceptional customer service.

Course Content Snapshot
Key Topics Covered in the Training Course
Topic Description
Introduction to the Travel Industry Industry basics, terminology, and best practices
Building Professional Skills Customer service, sales techniques, and industry etiquette
Understanding Basic and International Geography Destination geography, including domestic and international locations
Mastering Transportation Logistics Air travel, ground transportation, and other travel arrangements

LuxRally Travel also offers a comprehensive free online training course that takes between 50-70 hours to complete. This course includes self-directed learning and video content covering travel agent basics, destination geography, and advanced booking systems. The course is divided into two main sections: "The Industry" and "The Systems," each providing detailed insights and practical training.

The "Industry" course covers industry terminology, best practices, and comprehensive explanations of leisure and group bookings, while the "Systems" course focuses on using the CRM, proprietary booking engine, and other essential tools.

Advanced Certification and Ongoing Training

Beyond the initial training, advanced certification and ongoing training are crucial for career advancement. Fora offers advanced certification programs and regular partner and destination trainings. These programs help you deepen your knowledge in specific areas of the travel industry, such as niche travel and specializations.

Advanced certifications like the Certified Travel Consultant (CTC), Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE), and ASTA Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional excellence. These certifications not only enhance your professional profile but also provide a competitive edge in the market.

Preparing for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Test

The Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test is an important milestone in your journey to becoming a certified travel agent. The TAP test, offered by the Travel Institute, is designed to assess your basic knowledge of the travel industry, including selling skills, basic geography, and the products sold by travel counselors.

The online travel agent course from Northwest Missouri State University prepares you fully for the TAP test, with the registration fee included in the course enrollment. This ensures you are well-prepared to demonstrate your mastery of the basics and take the first step towards professional recognition.

TAP Test Preparation

The course materials include textbooks and digital resources that cover all aspects of the TAP test. You will learn about industry terminology, basic geography, and the skills required to sell travel products effectively. The course is self-paced, allowing you to prepare for the test at your own speed.

Passing the TAP test is a significant achievement that marks the beginning of your professional journey as a travel agent, and it opens up opportunities for further advanced certifications and career growth.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Building Your Travel Agency Business

Marketing and Client Acquisition Strategies

Building a successful travel business business in Missouri requires effective marketing and client acquisition strategies. One of the key approaches is to leverage social media and online platforms to reach potential clients. Creating engaging content, such as travel tips, destination highlights, and special promotions, can help attract and retain clients. For instance, using platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share visually appealing travel content can be highly effective.

Host agencies like Fora and LuxRally Travel often provide marketing support and resources, including templates and training on how to effectively market your services. These resources can help you develop a strong online presence and attract new clients. Additionally, participating in local travel fairs and events can provide valuable networking opportunities and help you build relationships with potential clients.

Collaborating with other travel professionals and local businesses can also enhance your marketing efforts. Partnering with hotels, restaurants, and other travel-related businesses can help you offer bundled packages and promotions that are more appealing to clients.

Leveraging Local Knowledge for Missouri Travel

Leveraging your local knowledge is a powerful way to differentiate yourself as a travel agent in Missouri. By specializing in trips within the state, you can offer unique and personalized travel experiences that capitalize on your insider knowledge. For example, you can plan tours of St. Louis, visits to the Ozarks, or other local attractions that showcase the best of Missouri.

Local Travel Highlights
Popular Local Destinations in Missouri
Destination Description
St. Louis Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Garden, City Museum
Ozarks Lake of the Ozarks, Mark Twain National Forest, Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Kansas City Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, National World War I Museum, Kansas City Zoo

This local expertise can help you build a loyal client base and attract clients who are looking for authentic and well-planned travel experiences within Missouri. By highlighting your knowledge of local attractions and hidden gems, you can differentiate your services from larger travel agencies that may not have the same level of local insight.

Managing Client Relationships and Customer Service

Managing client relationships and providing exceptional customer service are crucial components of building a successful travel business business. This involves understanding the specific needs and preferences of your clients and tailoring your services accordingly. Effective communication is key, whether it's through email, phone, or in-person consultations.

Host agencies often provide training on customer service and relationship management, which can help you develop the skills needed to handle client interactions professionally and efficiently. For example, Fora's training program includes sessions on customer service and sales techniques, which can help you build strong relationships with your clients.

Using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools provided by your host business can also help you manage client interactions, track bookings, and follow up with clients effectively.

Financial Management and Commission Structures

Financial management is a critical aspect of running a travel business business. Understanding the commission structures and how to manage your finances effectively is essential for maintaining profitability. Host agencies typically handle the administrative aspects, including financial management, which allows you to focus on building your client base and providing excellent service.

For instance, Fora and LuxRally Travel provide access to booking systems and partner programs that help you earn commissions on the travel you book. These agencies also offer guidance on how to manage your finances, including tips on pricing, invoicing, and budgeting.

Financial Management Tips

Keeping track of your expenses, setting competitive pricing, and ensuring timely payment from clients are all important aspects of financial management. Regularly reviewing your financial performance can help you identify areas for improvement and make informed business decisions.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Maintaining and Advancing Your Career

Continuous Education and Industry Updates

To maintain and advance your career as a travel agent in Missouri, continuous education and staying updated with industry trends are crucial. The travel industry is constantly evolving, with new destinations, technologies, and travel policies emerging regularly. Participating in ongoing training programs and workshops can help you stay current and competitive.

The Travel Institute offers advanced certification programs that require ongoing education to maintain your certification. For example, the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) certification requires 10 continuing education credits each year to keep your certification active.

Continuing Education Requirements

These credits can be earned through various means, including attending industry events, participating in webinars, and completing online courses. This ensures that your skills and knowledge remain up-to-date and relevant in the industry.

Networking Opportunities in the Travel Industry

Networking is a vital component of advancing your career as a travel agent. Attending industry events, conferences, and trade shows provides valuable opportunities to connect with other travel professionals, suppliers, and potential clients. These events can help you build relationships, learn about new trends and products, and stay informed about industry changes.

Joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) can also provide access to networking opportunities, educational resources, and industry updates. ASTA offers various events and webinars that help travel agents connect with peers and industry leaders.

Networking can lead to collaborations, referrals, and new business opportunities, which are essential for growing your client base and expanding your services.

Expanding Your Services: Niche Travel and Specializations

Expanding your services to include niche travel and specializations can significantly enhance your career as a travel agent. Specializing in areas such as luxury travel, adventure travel, or destination-specific travel (e.g., Missouri local tours) can help you stand out and attract a dedicated client base.

For instance, you can specialize in planning tours of St. Louis or visits to the Ozarks, leveraging your local knowledge to create unique and personalized travel experiences. This specialization can also open up opportunities for partnerships with local businesses and attractions, further enriching your clients' travel experiences.

Niche Travel Specializations
Examples of Niche Travel Specializations
Niche Description
Luxury Travel High-end travel experiences, including luxury accommodations and exclusive activities.
Adventure Travel Travel that involves outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or water sports.
Destination-Specific Travel Specializing in travel to specific destinations, such as local Missouri tours or international destinations.

By expanding your services into niche areas, you can differentiate yourself from general travel agents and attract clients who are looking for unique and specialized travel experiences.


how to become a travel agent in Missouri

Conclusion

Becoming a travel agent in Missouri is a rewarding and fulfilling career path that combines your passion for travel with the opportunity to help others explore new destinations. From understanding the role of a travel agent to building and advancing your business, each step is crucial in establishing a successful career.

By joining a reputable host business, such as Fora or LuxRally Travel, you gain access to comprehensive training programs, marketing support, and the necessary resources to succeed. These agencies provide the IATA number required for conducting business, as well as ongoing education and advanced certification opportunities.

Remember, continuous education and industry updates are key to maintaining your competitive edge. Staying informed about new destinations, travel technologies, and industry best practices ensures you remain a valuable resource for your clients.

Leveraging your local knowledge of Missouri can also set you apart. By specializing in trips within the state, you can offer unique and personalized travel experiences that showcase the best of Missouri. This not only enhances your professional profile but also contributes to the local tourism industry.

Local Expertise

Whether it's planning tours of St. Louis, visits to the Ozarks, or other local attractions, your insider knowledge can help you build a loyal client base and attract clients seeking authentic travel experiences.

Networking opportunities within the travel industry are also vital. Attending industry events, conferences, and trade shows can help you connect with other professionals, suppliers, and potential clients. These connections can lead to collaborations, referrals, and new business opportunities.

As you embark on this journey, remember that becoming a successful travel agent is a continuous process. It involves ongoing learning, client relationship management, and staying adaptable to industry changes. With dedication and the right resources, you can build a thriving career that brings joy and satisfaction to both you and your clients.

With the right mindset, resources, and support, you are well on your way to a successful and rewarding career as a travel agent in Missouri. Embrace the opportunities, challenges, and joys that come with this role, and you will find that turning your passion into a career is not only possible but also incredibly fulfilling.


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How to Become a
Travel Agent in
Missouri

Missouri


Along Missouri's southern border, the state's charming small towns seem more like the state's southern neighbor, Arkansas, with flat terrain, a rural landscape and miles/kilometers of rivers and springs. As you travel north along the Mississippi River, the flatlands morph into the hillier terrain found in St. Louis and Hannibal.

Springfield, located in the southwestern part of the state, offers outdoor adventures and serves as the gateway to the Ozarks and Branson. The western part of the state seems as if it should be annexed by next-door neighbor Kansas, as Kansas City's decidedly western ambience features a cosmopolitan attitude. To the north, historic sights detail the adventures of outlaw Jesse James and the Pony Express headquarters in St. Joseph.

And with its sites related to several beloved and/or infamous figures from the nation's past—Mark Twain, Walt Disney, Scott Joplin, Harry S Truman and Jesse James—Missouri has a knack for making a vacation into a heartland pilgrimage.

Geography

The Mississippi River forms the eastern border of the state, with high bluffs along its banks. North of the Missouri River, which bisects the state, are rolling hills and pastures. In the southern half of the state, the farmland rises into foothills and the forest-covered, spring-rich Ozark Mountains.

History

The state is named for the Missouri tribe, which inhabited the wooded valleys and tributaries of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. The Missouri and Osage people were farmers, but they were strongly influenced by nomadic bison hunters of the Great Plains—much of their culture centered on the seasonal bison hunts. In addition, Caddoan farmers and hunters inhabited southern Missouri.

The first European to visit the area was Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who arrived in 1541 while exploring the Mississippi River. The first Anglo settlement, St. Genevieve, wasn't founded until almost 200 years later. After being ceded back and forth between France and Spain, Missouri became a part of the U.S. with the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Throughout the first half of the 1800s, Missouri was increasingly important to the still-young U.S. The Santa Fe, Oregon and California Trails all threaded through Kansas City and Independence. Though it was admitted to the Union in 1821 as a slave-holding state (part of the Missouri Compromise that also accepted Maine as a free state), Missouri eventually sided with the Union in the Civil War—but only after bitter political struggles, armed conflict and guerrilla-style raids throughout the state.

In the midst of westward expansion following the war, Missouri's central location on the north-south Mississippi trade route and the east-west rail lines made it an important crossroads. Today, Missouri is a leading manufacturing, agriculture and food-processing state. Tourism, the service industries and some mining round out the state's economy, along with automobile and aircraft manufacturing. Missouri is also home to a number of companies that are leading the way in the exploration of the biotech industry.

Snapshot

Missouri's main draws include the Gateway Arch, live-music shows, the St. Louis Zoo, the Ozarks, Branson, lakes, caves (5,000 of them), history, the Mississippi River, Kansas City, riverboat gambling and attractions associated with two of America's greatest straight talkers—author Mark Twain and former U.S. President Harry S Truman.

Travelers interested in history, architecture, museums, theme parks and pleasant scenery will enjoy Missouri. Those who seek dramatically rugged mountains or who prefer a coastal beach to a recreational lake may find the state less to their liking.

Potpourri

Walt Disney grew up in Marceline in north-central Missouri and modeled Disneyland's Mainstreet USA after his hometown. In the town's Walt Disney Elementary School, you'll find his old desk and some life-sized characters created by Disney artists.

Folks who live in California keep waiting for the Big One. Well, it's already happened—in Missouri. Back in 1811, New Madrid was the epicenter of the biggest earthquake in U.S. history. It ravaged the landscape for miles/kilometers around, was felt as far away as Canada and even briefly reversed the course of the Mississippi River. Although seismologists anticipate another major rumble along the fault line, warnings of a major quake in the past few years have proved groundless.

The Cathedral Church of the Prince of Peace in Highlandville lays claim to being the world's smallest cathedral—it holds only 15 worshippers.

The George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond pays tribute to the former slave who became one of this country's most important agronomists and is attributed with creating peanut butter.

Missouri has produced and shaped a plethora of music legends and entertainers, including jazz masters Charlie "Bird" Parker and Miles Davis; actress and dancer Josephine Baker; singer Michael McDonald; hip-hop's Nelly; Scott Joplin, known as the king of ragtime; and Chuck Berry, often credited as the father of rock 'n' roll. More modern-era celebrities include Brad Pitt from Springfield and Sheryl Crow from Kennett. Both attended the University of Missouri at Columbia.

The "S" in Harry S Truman is not an abbreviation of a name—his middle name was simply S—which has made the period after the letter controversial. Sometimes it is used, sometimes not. When he was once asked about his preference, he said it made no difference to him. Truman is the only U.S. president ever elected from the Show Me State, and the university in Kirksville (northeast Missouri) was renamed in 1996 to honor him.

Retired CBS News anchor Walter Cronkite, once considered the most trusted man in America, was born in St. Joseph and later worked at KCMO radio in Kansas City.

The house in which Daniel Boone lived his last years is in Defiance. The town of Boonville, about 125 mi/200 km upriver is also named for Boone, although the spelling became convoluted over the years.

The Church of St. Mary Aldermanbury—which dates to the 1100s, was rebuilt by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of 1666 and partially destroyed during the Blitz of London during World War II—was disassembled in London, shipped to the U.S. and put back together in Fulton as a commemorative study center to the life and work of Winston Churchill. Churchill's famous "Iron Curtain" speech was delivered in Fulton in 1946 at Westminster College. The center was dedicated in 1969 by the Board of Trustees of Westminster College.




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