In February of 1996, Warrensburg was selected as one of two Missouri towns to participate in the state Department of Economic Development's Main Street Program. As an Official Main Street Town, we receive technical assistance and training to physically and economically revitalize our downtown.

Warrensburg Main Street (WMS) is a volunteer-driven program with a mission to preserve our heritage by revitalizing the historic downtown as a working and profitable economic center. WMS is a non-profit corporation formed by local residents and business people interested in the continued vitality of downtown. A 12-member board of directors, who employ a professional staff to coordinate activities, leads the organization.

As a 501(c)3 organization recognized under the Internal Revenue code, donations are tax deductible. There are no federal grants for underwriting the program. It is a local public-private enterprise funded by local businesses, lending institutions, the City of Warrensburg and residents throughout the community.

The program focuses on reusing historic buildings, existing infrastructure and local assets. This efficient cost effective approach preserves the community's identity and heritage while enhancing its livibality and quality of life. We offer building renovation assistance, grants and low interest loans while coordinating promotional activities and special events. We also have access to a national network of information and technical assistance to help with our business retention, expansion and recruitment efforts.

Warrensburg: "Home of Man's Best Friend"

Senator George Graham Vest's "Tribute to a Dog" described the companionship and faithfullness of a dog during his closing argument in a trial seeking restitution for the shooting of Old Drum. The only dog statue on any courthouse lawn is in Warrensburg, forever immortalizing the now famous saying, "a dog is man's best friend." Visitors to the courthouse lawn may take pictures of the statue and linger after reading the plaque below the paws of Old Drum.

Old Drum was killed in 1868. The lawsuit surrounding the death of the dog gave local lawyer George Graham Vest the opportunity to create a speech eulogizing the merits of Old Drum and every dog. The statue represents more than a dog story. It is also a story about a community's determination to symbolize "man's best friend." A local fund raising effort in 1957 attracted donations from 42 states and a half dozen foreign countries. Former President Harry S. Truman was asked for a dollar and responded by sending $101.

The Warrensburg Main Street Program seeks to continue the determination and faithfulness symbolized by "man's best friend" through the successful preservation, economic development and revitalization of downtown. The future downtown Warrensburg will be a beautiful, eclectic mix of retail, government functions, business, professional services and artistic endeavors with a unified feel that all residents can enjoy. The development will be based on its present assets - businesses that provide individualized service in a friendly atmosphere, accessibility for local residents and a walkable distance from Central Missouri State University.