Red Oak II — Attraction in Carthage

Very cool!! If your into the whole Route 66 mother road thing, then I'd say you have to stop by this place.

I found out about it because I was stopping in Carthage for an overnight stay and was looking for something to kill some time. There wasn't much info on it but I saw that it was free and open to the public any day of the week, and I didn't see any restriction for pets. I asked the clerk at the hotel about it's location and she easily directed me and confirmed it being open. She suggested I go a little later in the evening when its cooler because there is a lot to see and explore. She also suggested I talk to the owner, because he will tell you the history behind the site and sometimes gives tours.

I'm glad I went and I loved looking at all the buildings, antique cars, and metal art. It really is cool and I wish I would have had the time to visit with Lowell to get the full experience, but it just wasn't in the cards that day. The only problem I had was at one point, I stopped my truck and got out to take some pictures, my dog was still in the vehicle (with his head hanging out the window) and suddenly, 5 or 6 little dogs that apparently live at one of the houses, came charging my way. I don't think they were after me, but they definitely didn't like my dog. They were barking, growling and agitated. In the ensuing chaos, one of the smaller dogs nipped at my calf and I had to scare them, to back them away. Once I got back in my vehicle and drove a little further up the loop things settled down and the dogs returned home. I guess it's not really a pet friendly place for visitors' with dogs.

That experience doesn't detract from the overall appeal of this place, but dog owners be forewarned. I guess I was even more surprised that people actually live in some of the houses here. I wasn't expecting to find a community of people in a sort of "ghost town". That was kind of a negative for me. Like another reviewer, I felt uncomfortable taking pictures and walking around someone's actual residence. If I had known in advance which houses were occupied I'd not have stopped to take pictures, but as it was, the houses were inner mixed with the town buildings along the loop so it's kind of inevitable unless you only visit the first few buildings at the entrance.

All in all it's something worth visiting if your in the area and I'd recommend it for those who want some neat pictures for your Route...

I love this place dearly because as soon as I arrive, my head, soul and my heart quickly become intoxicated by an irresistible yet benevolent kind of magic that draws my mind away from whatever negative rut it's been worrying about to lead it down a meandering path that leaves it basking in a child like sense of wonder accompanied by an innocent, awe-stuck curiosity about how this place came to be. It's got mystery. It arouses curiosity. It makes a smile appear. It stirs the creative part of me from it's world-weary slumber. It relaxes the senses and bids an unbiased welcome to those seeking a momentary refuge from the insane pace of the modern world. I believe it's a place that somehow exists alone in a quiet place that is hidden away from the chaotic world we live our daily lives in. Time seems to pass at a different pace here and a person is seemingly granted a gift that is the sudden ability to slow down and calmly appreciate the beauty that surrounds them. There's no admission, there is a small art gallery full of unique and skillfully crafted pieces but I assure this place is definitely not about the money, it's more about a man who wishes to impart a bit of wisdom to anybody who will take the time to take it to heart and I highly recommend that you do because I found healing there and I saw my worries become insignificant as they faded into the distance for the short time that I was there. It's a place that you can bring home with you and it can help you later on if you keep close by. If, while you're there, you pass by a house with a curiously intricate fountain that is made out of different sizes and lengths of metal pipe and you notice somebody sitting on the porch there peering out at you, don't be shy; wave, do yourself a favor and take the time to say hello to Lowell and ask him about how Red Oak II became Red Oak II. I won't spoil it for you plus it's not my story to tell. Do make sure that you let him know you appreciate what he's done.

PLEASE NOTE If you're not a respectful person please disregard Red Oak II; it's not for you, you won't like it plus there's many other things for you to go enjoy elsewhere; I doubt you're capable of grasping the true worth...

Red Oak II is a fascinating place. It's a ghost town, but it's not really a ghost town. It's a recreation of a ghost town, created by artist Lowell Davis. Davis grew up in the original Red Oak, Missouri, which was abandoned in the 1950s. He decided to recreate the town on his farm, using old buildings and materials that he found.

Red Oak II is a beautiful place. The buildings are all in good condition, and they're set in a lovely rural setting. It's a great place to take a walk, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Davis also created a number of sculptures and paintings that are on display at Red Oak II. These works of art are beautiful, and they help to bring the town to life.

If you're interested in history, art, or just want to take a walk in a beautiful setting, I highly recommend visiting Red Oak II. It's a unique place that you won't find anywhere else.

Here are some pros and cons of visiting Red Oak II:

Pros:

Beautiful setting Interesting history Unique experience

Cons:

Some of the buildings are in need of repair It can be a bit of a drive to get there Admission is not free

Overall, I think Red Oak II is a great place to visit. It's a unique and interesting place that offers something...