As early as 1883 there was agitation to change the name of Osage Mission because it suggested it was still an Indian Mission. Neona was suggested to honor the daughter of Chief Little Bear, but local protests favored the name of St. Paul. The reigning judge decided to allow the citizens to vote on the new name and St. Paul was chosen in an election held on April 11, 1895. Some claim the new name was selected to honor the Apostle Paul, but it was most probably selected in honor of St. Paul of the Cross, founder of the Passionists, who had just then established a home in Osage Mission. The name of the post office was officially changed from Osage Mission to Saint Paul in May 1895.