Zorn Building


From West Plains 1880-1930

Crossing South Street, we see the Howell County Gazette building a block south. Will Zorn built it in 1911-1912. The newspaper offices for the Gazette were on the first floor and Zorn’s living quarters on the second. He was active in Democratic politics and served as postmaster from 1915 until 1922. In 1892 Zorn operated a woolen mill in town and later was the manager of the Catron Opera House located on the Square.

By Toney Aid. West Plains 1880-1930.

Did you know?

  • The Zorn building used to be the newspaper offices for the West Plains Gazette?
  • That the Zorn building is over 100 years old?


Missouri Humanities Council Logo

Funding for the Schoolcraft Journey project on Unlock the Ozarks has been provided by the Missouri Humanities Council.