About

The settlement of Harrison County began around 1838, although the land was not surveyed and opened for entry until 1842. The county is named after Albert C Harrison who was a Missouri politician during the 19th century. Many of the early pioneers in the county settled along Sugar Creek and in the Bethany area. Three commissioners deliberated for several days to determine a site for the county seat and finally came to the decision to place it in the southern part of the county. The original name for the community was Dallas.

In June of 1845, John S. Allen was appointed commissioner to survey the town into lots and offer the same for sale. The plat which was completed on June 27, 1845 consisted of 19 total acres.