Town Talk: Slater, Missouri

Slater, Missouri

by: Phyllis Moore

Slater was founded in 1878. Named for a railroad tycoon, John F. Slater. Mr. Slater had the railroad roundhouse for many years, but now no part of it remains. The town of Slater has had a few factories in its time, including an underwear factory. But the factory that remains now makes filters for large buildings and is part of the Fortune 500 Group.

Slater, Missouri stained glass window celebrating their railway

Slater's height of population barely reached 3,000 peope, but like many small rural towns, it has dropped to under 2,000 people as of 2025. Slater has a grocery store, and a few stores including good places to eat and some excellent businesses. It's filled with great people and their Veterans Park is a must see on Main Street.