Missouri Life September 2023

Above, Going Somewhere , painted by Kelly Poling, depicts a pre-World War I Chillicothe when trains, automobiles, and horse-drawn streetcars were among the transportation options. Main Street Chillicothe Executive Director Tomie Walker says that this mural and 24 others have instilled a sense of pride in the residents of the northern Missouri community. Top right, as they approach Cape Girardeau on the Mississippi River, travelers arriving by boat see the postcard-style Welcome to Cape Girardeau, Missouri mural on an expansive floodwall. The art was created by Craig Thomas. Right, in Hannibal, a mural honors favorite son Mark Twain and his classic stories. Since 2020, Hannibal has added 25 murals that feature local landmarks and beloved Twain characters such as Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer. Below, In Joplin, Black History and Performing Arts , painted by Kansas City’s Alexander Austin in 2022, showcases Joplin-born poet and playwright Langston Hughes and other artists who lived and performed in Joplin.

MAIN STREET CHILLICOTHE, JAKE REUBEL/SKY573, HANNIBAL CVB, VISITJOPLIN.COM

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