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Around 1843 an Eastern company conducted a search of the land around this area of Missouri hoping to find valuable minerals. In 1868 a mineralogist and geologist, Forrest Shepherd, located silica (sand rock) on the east side near the mouth of Plattin Creek. Samples sent to England determined that the sand was superior in quality for glass manufacturing. An enthusiastic pursuit to develop glass led to the creation of American Plate Glass.

Large areas were cleared and homes were built for the workers and their families who were moving to the area which was originally called New Detroit. As the town grew, the residents seeking their own identity changed the name to Crystal City.

American Plate Glass company was sold in 1877 to the Crystal Plate Glass Company of St. Louis and in 1895 the factory, town and all its holdings were acquired by Pittsburg Plate Glass Company which later became known as PPG Industries.
 

On February 8, 1877, a petition signed by 122 citizens was presented to the county court and the city of Festus was incorporated as a fourth class city. The community depended upon the glass company, directly or indirectly, for its livelihood. Once Festus grew to over one thousand residents, the townspeople built churches and schools. Merchants and tradesmen open businesses along Main Street.

As the Twin Cities grew, both Crystal City and Festus began leaving the "company town" roots behind. These two towns have continued to grow and prosper. Today, only a street marketing the boundary separates these two communities that have built a proud and rich heritage.