Centropolis

Centropolis, formerly called Springfield, is considered the oldest town in the county. Indian agent Perry Fuller opened a store here in 1855, and organized the town in 1856. A rock school was built in 1855, and a post office established in 1858 (closed in 1930). The town enjoyed some success but began to fade in the early 1900s. Several early businesses survived for many years: the Farmer’s Union Mercantile, the frame building on the northwest corner which closed as a craft shop in 1983; and Gilliland’s Garage, founded by early residents, is now operated by the third generation.