We are not a flyover state…
We are the heart of America
We strive to highlight the uniqueness of rural Missouri, and to showcase the bigger picture of what Small Town America really is, and why it shouldn’t be overlooked, overshadowed, or underappreciated.
Each year, communities with populations under 10,000 will be nominated and voted on by Missourians to become our annual “Featured Five” communities. Each of our Featured Five will work with Missouri Humanities on the following:
A short video about their community
An hour-long podcast, roundtable-style
A feature in our bi-annual publication, MoHumanities
A highlight reel, featuring all five communities, to be shown during our annual gala
Check out our previous Episodes & Podcasts at the links below.
Don’t forget to subscribe!
Submissions for Small Town Showcase: Show Me 250 open November 1!
Questions?
Please contact Caitlin Yager, our Program Director, at caitlin@mohumanities.org
2025 Featured Five
Elsberry, Missouri
Elsberry is a Mississippi River community that has seen both trials and triumph. From its early days as a railroad community to its growing downtown businesses, Elsberry’s story is a testament to small town perseverance and preservation.
Potosi, Missouri
Potosi has deep roots and rich history, with original settlers dating back to the early 1760s. Much of its story is tied to bountiful lead mining in the region, and Potosi proudly celebrates this through annual festivals, commemorative signage, and historic sites, keeping its citizens actively engaged in propelling the community forward.
Prarie Home, Missouri
Prairie Home is a town where residents truly depend on one another to ensure community success and resilience, and they strive to prove that population size is just a number. For example, check out their Prairie Home Free Fair, an annual summer tradition for over 100 years! It's the perfect example of community pride and support.
Ste. Genevieve, Missouri
This small river community is hailed as the first permanent European settlement West of the Mississippi River, giving Ste. Genevieve major historical significance not just for Missouri, but nationally as well. Almost 300 years later, the town is brimming with historic charm, engaging and exciting events, and a yearn to share their story with more people, enticing them to experience Ste. Gen’s many offerings.
Tarkio, Missouri
Coming Soon!
Stay tuned as we highlight Tarkio, Ste. Genevieve, Potosi, Elsberry, and Prarie Home throughout this year!
Upcoming 2026 Featured Five Communities:
TBA!
