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Following National Road Trip Day on May 22nd, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the history, heritage tourism, and community spirit of Butler, Missouri, a vibrant destination along the historic Jefferson Highway. Jefferson Highway Butler Area Chamber of Commerce Butler Historic Preservation Commission
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Featured guests are Samantha Stump of the Butler Chamber of Commerce and Doris Fuller of the Butler Historic Preservation Commission.
From colorful murals and historic downtown sites to upcoming celebrations and classic car culture, this engaging conversation highlights how Butler is preserving its Jefferson Highway legacy while welcoming modern travelers and road trippers.
Learn about the upcoming Jefferson Highway Car Show in Butler on June 13, along with the community’s efforts to promote heritage tourism through storytelling, signage, preservation projects, and downtown revitalization.
The episode also explores Butler’s fascinating history, including its recognition as the first city west of the Mississippi River to have electricity, its connection to Americana travel culture, and the importance of small-town experiences along America’s historic highways.
Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place in Joplin, Missouri, from September 19–22, 2026, including details about the event’s sociability caravan motor tours. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/
The discussion also highlights how communities along the Jefferson Highway continue to attract visitors through local events, murals, dining experiences, and authentic hospitality that celebrates the spirit of the open road.
The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/
Learn more about Butler, Missouri:
- Butler Chamber of Commerce:
Butler Historic Preservation Commission:
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide:
Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:
The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Exploring Butler, Missouri
03:03 – Jefferson Highway Celebrations and Caravans
05:49 – Community Engagement Through Car Shows
08:49 – Historic Murals and Preservation Efforts
11:58 – Butler’s Jefferson Highway History
14:47 – Unique Attractions and Local Heritage
18:01 – Butler: First City West of the Mississippi with Electricity
20:55 – Discovering Americana on the Jefferson Highway
23:48 – Historical Significance of the Jefferson Highway
29:30 – Economic Impact of Heritage Tourism
32:48 – Lodging and Dining Along the Route
36:39 – Mapping the Jefferson Highway Experience
43:42 – Promoting Small Towns and Community Engagement
46:30 – Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration & Sociability Caravan Updates
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/