Small Town America

Eureka, California: West Coast's Hidden Bay

Nearly 300 years of European exploration of the present day California coast fell short of finding the elusive Humboldt Bay. On May 13th, 1950, a settlement was founded on its shore. They called it “Eureka,” a Greek word meaning “I have found it!” Conflict, violence, ghosts, and a historically seedy underbelly, Eureka is now a lively seaport town brimming with interesting stories. Listen to the episode to learn more. Interview with Pro Tem Mayor, Kim Bergel. Songs include: Love Song - Sara Bareilles Love or Money - The Wackers Find us on itunes or wherever you find your podcasts. Just search "Small Town America."

Wallace, Idaho: Silver Capital of the World

The tiny town of Wallace, Idaho may only have less than 800 residents, but its history could fill an entire book. Settled as a regional center for the miners of northern Idaho, its quick population rise was closely followed by disasters and conflicts that all but defined the community. Though the town saw gradual departure of its residents throughout the 20th century, it continued to earn the national spotlight as it stood up to the powers at be, proving time and time again that size doesn't equate to strength and ingenuity. Listen to the episode to learn more about this storied community and what makes it such a significant link to the past of America. Interview with the awesome and self appointed Prime Minister of Wallace, Rick Shaffer. Available on Apple Podcast or wherever you find you podcasts, just search "Small Town America." Songs include: Intro: "My Man and My Mule" from Mr. Imperium - Composed by Harold Arlen, performed by Lana Turner, vocals by Trudy Erwin Outro: "Blue Moon Revisited" (featured in Dante's Peak) - Cowboy Junkies

Moab, Utah: Ancient Crossroads of the West

Moab, Utah might seem like a typical western town - surrounded by desert and brimming with tales of classic cowboys like Butch Cassidy, it's easy to overlook the town's complexities. But, Moab has a vibrant and important history. Despite being nestled between two extraordinary national parks, this exceptional town has more than meets the eye. This week on Small Town America, Henry and Hannah get the chance to interview the recently elected mayor, Emily Niehaus, and also discuss the vibrant history of this amazing small town. Music includes: "Theme from Mission: Impossible" - Lalo Schifrin "The Raiders March" - John Williams Also available on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find your podcasts.

Telluride, Colorado: From Minerals to Moguls

This week Hannah and Henry discuss the fascinating town of Telluride, Colorado. Featuring interviews with Mayor Sean Murphy, and Pepper Raper of the Telluride Historical Museum, learn about the human and geographic history, and the contemporary character of yet another incredible American small town. Music includes: Smuggler's Blues, Glenn Frey Dancing with the Mountains, John Denver

Small Town America Interviews Donald Stark: Part II

A continuation of the first interview with this Portland native of nearly a century. In this segment he goes into his friendship with Portland's beloved and notorious mayor, Bud Clark, as well as providing his unique and cherished perspective on many other things that have made this city special. ... Born in Portland in 1928 on April Fools Day, Donald Stark has witnessed not only the drastic changes within in city, but throughout the country. A Grant High School graduate, he attended the first Portland State University, located in what was once the city of Vanport, and later graduated from the University of Oregon. After earning his law degree he spent over 60 years serving as a prominent landuse lawyer in the City of Portland. His perspective shows that of someone with endless empathy and compassion, while also having a thoughtful objectivity to the events that have occurred throughout his life. There couldn't be enough time in an episode to cover all the important things this man has to say, but here is just the beginning.