Red Oaks lI

Red Oak II – A Step Back in Time in Jasper County, Missouri

Red Oak II is the creation of artist Lowell Davis, who grew up in the original town of Red Oak, just about 20 minutes from where he later lived in Jasper, Missouri. After spending years away, Lowell returned to find his hometown abandoned—something that clearly touched him deeply. But instead of letting that memory fade, he did something extraordinary: he started rebuilding Red Oak—not in place, but in spirit.

On his own land near Jasper, he began relocating and restoring old buildings—some from the original Red Oak and others that fit the time period. The result is a nostalgic, open-air time capsule that feels like stepping into the past.

Some highlights:

1. A daycare cage labeled as charging “50¢ a day.”
2. Floors in the museum made from tree stump slices—truly artistic and rustic.
3. We had the pleasure of meeting Lowell’s wife, who still helps care for the property. Lowell himself passed away around 2020.
4. Of course, I had to do the photo op sitting on the moon—how could I resist?
5. Janet had fun showing off an old-fashioned washing machine just like the one we had growing up.
6. There’s a place called Foxfire Farm, a shed with a painted American flag, and a full range of historic-looking buildings: a schoolhouse, church, town hall, firehouse, a blacksmith shop, and even a tiny troll house.
7. They even had a “hooker house”—I’ll leave that one to your imagination!
8. A marshal’s office, ha gas station, and a giant gazebo complete the small-town charm.
9. There were two vintage airplanes—one with a painted face and big eyes, giving it an animated personality.

Lowell's vision was to recreate the world he grew up in, not only for himself but for his grandchildren and future generations, so they could experience life the way it once was.

It’s free to visit, but donations are welcome—and after seeing the love and detail poured into this place, you’ll want to contribute. It’s absolutely worth a stop if you're anywhere nearby.