Praying Hands Memorial

Webb City, Missouri

MissouriRoadside Attraction

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In Webb City, Missouri, just off Route 66, you’ll find the Praying Hands Memorial—a towering tribute with a message of peace. These massive hands stand 32 feet tall atop a 40-foot man-made hill, weighing in at 110 tons. At their base, a winding concrete path reads simply: Hands in prayer. World in peace.

Local artist Jack Dawson envisioned the Praying Hands back in 1970. When he pitched the idea to the Webb City Park Board and Historical Society, they embraced it and rallied the community to help bring this vision to life. Two years later, in 1972, the Praying Hands took their place in the park, and on April 28, 1974, they were dedicated to the public. Dawson expressed the statue’s deeper meaning, sharing that the hands “symbolize the need for a personal commitment and relationship to God.”

Thousands of visitors each year make a stop to see these giant hands rising over Webb City. In November 2020, a memorial wall was added to the site, featuring a tile mural that shares the history of Dawson’s creation.

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Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Praying Hands Memorial

4 based on 1 reviews

Address:

Dawson Dr, Webb City, MO 64870

Hours:

Visible 24/7

Cost:

Free

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Photos of the Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri

Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri Route 66 Roadside Attraction
Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri Route 66 Roadside Attraction

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Praying Hands Memorial in Webb City, Missouri, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the Praying Hands Memorial?

The Praying Hands Memorial is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Webb City and a popular stop for Route 66 travelers exploring southwest Missouri. The massive sculpture depicts two hands clasped in prayer and stands atop a man-made hill overlooking the city. Created by local artist J.E. “Jack” Dawson, the monument has become a symbol of faith, peace, and community pride.

Where is the Praying Hands Memorial located?

The memorial is located in King Jack Park near the eastern edge of Webb City, just off U.S. Highway 71/171. Its elevated position makes it visible from a considerable distance and easy to spot while traveling through the area.

Where can you park?

There’s a small parking area next to the informational sign where you can park to take photos.

Where to Stay Near the Praying Hands Memorial

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these Missouri hotels near Route 66.

Boots Court Motel

The Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri opened in 1939. This historic Route 66 motor hotel hosted actor Clark Gable numerous times.

Rockwood Motor Court

Rockwood Motor Court opened as a Tourist Camp in 1929, just three years after Route 66 was commissioned. Renovated in 2019, you’ll enjoy clean and comfortable rooms themed to eras of Route 66 with vintage décor, furniture, and memorabilia.

Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven

After a day behind the wheel, stopping at all of the Mother Road’s iconic roadside attractions, museums, restaurants, and more, a good shower and a comfy bed is always a welcome sight. Take that and add modern amenities, vintage charm, and a touch of Elvis, and you have the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven motel in Springfield, Missouri. Book a stay in the iconic Elvis Suite for a unique night!

Attractions Near the Praying Hands Memorial on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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4 based on 1 reviews

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