Rayville, MO

Rayville is a small town located in Ray County, Missouri. The population was 1,827 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Ray County.

The town was founded in 1837 and named for General James B. Ray, who fought in the Mexican-American War and in the American Civil War. The first post office opened in 1839.

The economy of Rayville is based largely on agriculture and tourism. The town has a small commercial district along Main Street, as well as several churches and businesses related to agriculture and tourism. There are also several bed-and-breakfasts and vacation homes located within the town limits.

The primary source of income for residents of Rayville is derived from agricultural production, with crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, hay, tobacco, cotton and tomatoes being grown on local farms. Tourism is also an important part of the local economy with visitors coming to see attractions such as the General James B. Ray State Historic Site (a museum dedicated to General James B. Ray), Lake Taneycomo (a reservoir located just outside of town), and nearby caves that have been designated a National Monument by President Barack Obama in 2016 .