Are you ready to embark on a journey through rural towns in Missouri? In this captivating video, the narrator explores Moberly and Higbee, two unique towns with their own charm. Moberly, with its population of around 13,700 people, showcases a mix of abandoned buildings and beautiful older homes. Meanwhile, Higbee, known for its wood barrel production, has a small population of 437 people and a declining population trend since 1920. The narrator takes you through the downtown areas, visiting churches, exploring neighborhoods with dirt roads and large yards, and finally stopping by the Skull Splitter Distillery in Higbee to taste some moonshine and buy unique bottles of liquor. From there, the journey continues to other towns in Southwest Missouri before heading to Bentonville, Arkansas. So, sit back, relax, and let Joe & Nic’s Road Trip show you the unbelievable small towns in the middle of nowhere in rural Missouri.
Moberly – A Glimpse into Rural Missouri
Population and Demographics
Moberly is a larger town in rural Missouri with a population of around 13,700 people. It has maintained this population for the past 50 to 60 years, indicating that it is not a town in decline. However, Moberly does face some socioeconomic challenges, with a poverty level of 22.2% and an average household income of $50,800, which is on the lower side. Despite these challenges, Moberly still has a vibrant downtown area with businesses and a fair amount of traffic.
Architecture and Buildings
When exploring Moberly’s downtown area, you can see a mix of architectural styles and buildings. Some of these buildings are abandoned and in poor condition, but there are also beautiful older homes that add character to the town. One notable building is the 4th Street Theater, which is still in operation and boasts a stunning architectural design. Across the street from the theater, you’ll find the public library, another beautiful building that adds to the town’s charm. While there are some buildings in need of repair, Moberly still has several impressive structures that create a unique atmosphere.
Religious Institutions
Moberly is known for having a high concentration of churches. In fact, it may have the highest concentration of churches in a town of its size that the narrator has ever seen. While driving through Moberly, you’ll come across various churches, such as the Coat Street Presbyterian Church, the Greater New Life Ministries, the Central Christian Church, and the Moberly Bible Methodist Church. One particularly impressive church is the Saint Pius 10 Catholic Church, which showcases a traditional and beautiful architectural style. These churches add to the town’s cultural and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the religious fabric of the community.
Higbee – A Small Town with a Unique Industry
Population and Socioeconomic Factors
Higbee is a small town in rural Missouri known for its unique industry of wood barrel making for wine and bourbon. Despite its industry, Higbee has a population of only 437 people, which is significantly lower than its highest population of 1,400 people back in 1920. This decline in population over the years has posed socioeconomic challenges for the town. The median household income in Higbee is $45,200, which is relatively low, and the median home value is $146,700. However, with its specialty in barrel making, Higbee continues to thrive as a small town with a unique identity.
Downtown Area and Landmarks
Higbee’s downtown area may be small, but it still has a few notable landmarks. As you drive through the town, you’ll come across a Dollar General, which is a common sight in many small towns. Higbee also has an interesting feature—a flagpole in the middle of downtown. This unique characteristic adds to the town’s charm and tells a story of its history. Additionally, you’ll find the Higbee Christian Church, a beautiful place of worship that adds to the town’s cultural and religious heritage.
Skull Splitter Distillery
One of the main attractions in Higbee is the Skull Splitter Distillery. This distillery is known for producing unique bottles of liquor, including moonshine and sweet wine. The narrator of the video mentions their interest in collecting these unique bottles for their own collection. At the distillery, visitors can try samples of moonshine and different flavors of wine. The narrator decides to purchase multiple bottles of liquor, including chocolate brandy, black cherry wine, apple pie, and more. This distillery not only adds value to the town’s economy but also gives visitors a taste of Higbee’s unique industry and craftsmanship.
Exploring Armstrong – A Town Frozen in Time
Population and Abandoned Buildings
Armstrong is a small town in rural Missouri that seems to be frozen in time. It has a small population and several abandoned buildings that add to its eerie charm. Although the video does not provide detailed information on Armstrong’s population or socioeconomic factors, the footage showcases a quiet and desolate town with remnants of its past. Exploring Armstrong gives viewers a glimpse into the realities that some rural towns face, with declining populations and buildings left to the elements.
Discovering Glasgow – A Historic Gem
Population and Economic Status
Glasgow is a town in rural Missouri that surprises visitors with its rich history and well-preserved architecture. It has a population of approximately 1,100 people, indicating its status as a small town in the region. Glasgow boasts a low poverty rate and a median household income of $52,900, indicating a decent economic standing for its residents. Additionally, the average age of the town is 46.1, suggesting an older population.
Historic Buildings and Landmarks
What makes Glasgow truly stand out are its historic buildings and landmarks. The town’s downtown area is bustling, with open businesses that reflect the community’s vibrancy. Glasgow has several buildings dating back to the mid-1800s, showcasing unique architectural styles and designs. Some notable buildings on the National Register in Glasgow include the Lewis Library, built in 1866, the United Methodist Church, and the Saint Mary Catholic Church. While some buildings in Glasgow have fallen into disrepair, nature has started reclaiming them, adding a sense of beauty and melancholy to the town’s scenery.
Churches and Religious Sites
Similar to Moberly, Glasgow is home to several churches, many of which were built in the mid-1800s. These historic churches contribute to the town’s cultural and religious heritage, symbolizing the importance of faith within the community. The Lewis Library, United Methodist Church, and Saint Mary Catholic Church are specifically recognized on the National Register, further emphasizing their historical significance. Glasgow’s churches and religious sites offer visitors an opportunity to appreciate the town’s deep-rooted traditions and architectural beauty.
Fayette – A Lively Town with a Rich History
Population and Education
Fayette is a lively town situated in rural Missouri, with a population of 2,827 residents. Although it experienced a peak population of 3,500 in 1970, Fayette has remained a vibrant community with a rich history. Central Methodist University is located in Fayette, contributing to its lively atmosphere and educational opportunities. The town’s association with the university brings a youthful energy and diverse population to Fayette.
Downtown Fayette and Historical Structures
Downtown Fayette is a popular destination for shopping and gathering. It boasts several buildings on the National Register, including the County Courthouse built in 1887. The architecture of these structures tells a story of Fayette’s past, showcasing the town’s historical legacy. As visitors stroll through downtown Fayette, they can appreciate the well-preserved buildings and the sense of community that permeates the area.
Recreational Facilities and Demographics
Fayette offers its residents and visitors various recreational facilities. One notable attraction is the swimming pool in the city park, built in 1936 and also recognized on the National Register. This recreational facility provides a place for individuals and families to cool off during the hot summer months. In terms of demographics, Fayette has a median age of 27.6, indicating a younger population. The town’s recreational facilities cater to the needs and interests of these younger residents, creating a lively and engaging environment.
Road Trip Continues: Heading to Jefferson City
As the road trip through rural Missouri continues, the narrator mentions their plan to head to Jefferson City, the capital of Missouri. Jefferson City offers a different experience from the smaller towns visited thus far, with its bustling city life and historical significance. The narrator’s journey through Jefferson City promises to uncover even more unique aspects of Missouri’s cultural heritage and urban landscape.
Exploring Southwest Missouri Towns
The video does not provide details on the specific towns visited in Southwest Missouri. However, it can be assumed that the narrator will continue their exploration of smaller towns in the region, uncovering their unique aspects, history, and cultural significance. Southwest Missouri is home to numerous hidden gems, each with its own story to tell, and the narrator’s journey provides viewers with a glimpse into the region’s rural charm.
Final Destination: Bentonville, Arkansas – Birthplace of Walmart
The road trip’s final destination is Bentonville, Arkansas, often referred to as the birthplace of Walmart. Bentonville offers an exciting contrast to the rural towns of Missouri, with its thriving economy and urban landscape. As one of the corporate headquarters of Walmart, Bentonville showcases the company’s impact on the town’s growth and development. Exploring Bentonville allows the narrator to delve into the history and significance of one of the world’s largest retail giants.
Conclusion
The road trip through rural Missouri offers viewers a comprehensive look at the unique towns and hidden gems that make up the state’s cultural fabric. From larger towns such as Moberly, Higbee, and Fayette to smaller, frozen-in-time towns like Armstrong, the journey provides an opportunity to appreciate Missouri’s rich history, architecture, and socioeconomic factors. While each town has its own challenges and strengths, they all contribute to the vibrant tapestry of rural Missouri. The road trip’s final destination in Bentonville, Arkansas, showcases the influence of retail behemoth Walmart and offers a glimpse into the impact of corporate success on local communities. Overall, this journey through rural Missouri and beyond highlights the often overlooked aspects of small-town America and celebrates the unique stories that shape our nation’s cultural heritage.