Birch Tree, Missouri
Birch Tree is a city in southern Shannon County, Missouri. It had a population of 679 at the 2010 census.
History
As might be surmised from its name, the community ultimately derives its name from a grove of birch trees which grew in the vicinity during the 19th century. In 1842, shortly after Shannon County's organization, the area was carved into its own township, initially named Birch Valley before later being renamed Birch Tree, and the town itself would receive this title as well. It is not entirely certain when the community of Birch Tree came into being, but the post office there has been in operation since 1865.[1]
Though initially benefiting from the lumber industry in the late 19th century, the city steadily declined thereafter until the 1950s, when, like the surrounding region, the growth of tourism and recreation in the Current River valley brought more economic activity to Birch Tree. Since then, it has gradually risen again in population.