Notable Events:

• Incorporated (1825)
• Capital of Missouri (1826 - Present)
• Captured by Federal Soldiers (June 15, 1861)

When the Missouri state legislature selected a location for the state capital in 1821, they committed to establishing a new town. The legislature considered the name "Missouriopolis" before choosing "Jefferson City" in honor of Thomas Jefferson. The general assembly moved from St. Charles to Jefferson City in 1826, making it the state capital. Early in the Civil War, Union forces under command of General Nathaniel Lyon occupied the city, and a provisional military government was put in place to help secure Missouri for the Union. Today, Jefferson City remains the capital of Missouri.