Long Lane, MO is a rural town located in South Central Missouri, in Dallas County. You'll find Long Lane almost 12 miles east of Buffalo, MO and 12 miles west of Lebanon, MO along Hwy 32. To say Long Lane is a small town is probably an understatement - the "city limit" sign doesn't list a population nor does "Long Lane" show up on the US Census Bureau map! Locals estimate the population to be around 90 people.
Travel along Hwy 32 into Long Lane, and you'll find the local post office. (Long Lane, MO does have it's own zip code: 65590)
Then you'll come across the fire department, an all volunteer unit. My husband, Ray, is the secretary of the Long Lane FD - a job they say he'll hold for life! The department relies heavily on local dues and state/federal grants.
Past the fire department you'll find the general store and Miss Daisy - a life long Long Lane resident! And before you leave town you'll see the tire repair shop on your left along with the sign pointing to the Long Lane Fair Grounds off to your right.
It's here at the "fair grounds" backing to the local school, that you'll find a rich 27 year tradition. Families from near and far come to Long Lane, MO on the Fourth of July - The Long Lane Lions Club plays host to a BBQ, live music and one of the largest fireworks displays you'll find in South Central Missouri.
Our family first stumbled upon Long Lane fireworks while in the area house hunting. We had looked at a home that holiday weekend and the owners were kind enough to recommend Long Lane. We've been attending ever since - I do believe this was year number eleven! We've only lived in the area a little over eight years.
Sitting with family and friends, I tried to get a grasp on just home many people had invaded Long Lane this 4th. I am guessing on the low side, Long Lane played host to over 750 people this 4th of July night! The children played at the playgrounds, the adults sang along to the music. Laughter rang over the land.
A hush fell over the crowd only to be replaced by ooo's and ahhh's - the town of Long Lane held us captive for 45 minutes with their light show. A show to put others to shame!
So thank you, Long Lane Missouri, for bringing together families and friends; for reminding us of tradition and how good it feels to be free!
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