Rural Rebirth

a banner hangs over the entrance to downtown Baldwin City. It reads "Welcome to the Maple Leaf Festival"

Rural Rebirth: ‘There’s Always Something Going On’ in Baldwin City 

Baldwin City went from “sleepy” 20 years ago to a vibrant community thanks to some dedicated locals. Its Maple Leaf Festival will draw thousands this weekend.

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A white courthouse built in the Greek revival style. On top the building is a clock tower.

Rural Rebirth: More Than a Civil War Town in Lexington 

History puts Lexington on the map. The community’s commitment to betterment holds it together and makes Lexington a place worth settling down in or visiting.  

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An orange and red building facade shows a big red movie theatre sign that reads "Plaza" on the marquee are movies playing at the theatre and a note reading "oldest cinema"

Rural Rebirth: ‘The Hometown Feel’ in Ottawa 

Ottawa is a Kansas river town that honors its rich history along with epic bike trails and a diverse array of downtown businesses.

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A vertical sign on a tall brick and white stone building reads "FOX" lower down a digital marquee reads "Sound of freedom"

Rural Rebirth: The Art of Being Atchison  

Atchison has enough historical attractions that put it — and keep it — on the map. But the people of this rustic river town want more for their community.

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A stone building with bluish green metal on the front reads "Hall of Waters" a stone water tower is on top of the building, as is a flag.

Rural Rebirth: Excelsior Springs, Eternally 

Excelsior Springs faced the same fate as many rural towns, declining population and vacant downtown buildings. But that didn’t happen. Here’s its rural rebirth.

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