George Washingtn Carver National Monument

A few weeks ago, we were able to go on a little getaway and do some sightseeing. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond, MO (southwestern portion of the state). A peaceful setting, it's in the outskirts of town and is operated by our national park system. We only recently became aware of this gem even though it's celebrating its 75th anniversary! If you're ever visiting the Carthage area, I believe this stop is a must.

This all exists on the farmland where young George was born and spent his childhood. There is a wonderful museum with storyboards, a classroom and laboratory. A nice auditorium offers an excellent overview movie and lovely hiking paths line the grounds.

This bust of him sits on the edge of the vast prairies.

Even as a child, George was known as "Plant Doctor" because of his incredible self-discovered knowledge. He loved spending time in the woods teaching himself about vegetation. It was so interesting hiking through "his" woods where he spent so much time.

I find it remarkable that George Washington Carver possessed so much drive and determination. A lifelong learner, he was a gifted agricultural scientist and educator. He did extensive research on peanuts and sweet potatoes. While many believe he was responsible for the invention of peanut butter, he cannot take the credit. He understood the nutritional values, though, and even felt that the oil of this legume might have some properties helpful in fighting polio. He was enormously instrumental in the science of crop rotation, which was something I had not previously known about this man. Seeing the poorer farmers struggle with lack of viable crops, he was quite involved in educating them about this practice. Considering the disadvantages with which this slaved boy dealt make his accomplishments even more admirable.


For many years I have admired many of his quotes, so I appreciated periodic markers along the paths displaying some of his words.

I will close with my favorite.

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because some day in life you will have been all of these.

                                                                                              George Washington Carver