Missouri State University was founded in 1905 as the Fourth District Normal School. During its early years, the institution’s primary purpose was preparing teachers for the public school systems in the southwest region of Missouri. Here are some important dates in the history of the University:

1899, The State Fruit Experiment Station, located in Mountain Grove, Mo., is established by Missouri Legislature. It remained a state agency until 1974, when it became part of what is now Missouri State University. Therefore, it is the oldest segment of the University. The Mountain Grove campus is now part of the University System.