We are not a flyover state…
We are the heart of America
Small Town Showcase is Missouri Humanities’ premiere digital storytelling initiative. Through podcasts and short films, the program highlights the heritage and culture of Missouri’s small towns, sharing their unique stories of resilience, revitalization, and resurgence.
2027 Small Town Showcase Nominations
Voting is open from October 7 until 5:00 p.m. CST December 1, 2026!
Check out our previous Episodes & Podcasts at the links below.
Questions?
Please contact Caitlin Yager, our Program Director, at caitlin@mohumanities.org
2026 Featured Five
Waynesville, MO
Waynesville, located in Pulaski County, is home to about 5,400 people. Between road warriors on Route 66 and military families from Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville has become a melting pot. And that’s just the start. There are so many layers to Waynesville's story. From its place in Trail of Tears history, its complicated role in the Civil War, and the heyday of Route 66, each piece of this community’s past plays a big role in its identity today.
Perryville, MO
Perryville is a community of just over 8,000 people about 80 miles south of St. Louis, and honestly, it is almost overwhelming how much this town has to offer. From natural history sites to museums, restaurants, historic properties, and more, Perryville is a true small town destination in the Show Me State with many layers of history to explore.
Savannah, MO
Savannah, Missouri, located in Andrew County in northwestern Missouri. It has a population of just about 5,000 people, but the unique businesses, cultural offerings, parks, food, and events rival those of communities two or three times its size.
Excelsior Springs, MO
Excelsior Springs grew to the height of its popularity due to its abundant mineral water springs, which made the town a destination spa community. Today, the town is a wonderful example of what happens when a small town understands the importance of preserving historic spaces and investing in a vibrant downtown.
