History & Heritage

Explore the stories, people, traditions, and river history that have shaped waterways, landscapes, and communities throughout the Midwest and beyond.

  • 5 Midwest River Monsters That Refuse to Stay Forgotten

    5 Midwest River Monsters That Refuse to Stay Forgotten

    The Midwest has no shortage of strange legends hiding in its waters. From hairy creatures roaming river bottoms to horned beasts lurking beneath muddy currents, Midwest river monsters have been part of river culture for centuries. Here are some of the most famous Midwest river monsters ever reported. 1. The Miniwashitu of the Missouri River…

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  • History of the Grand River in Missouri: More Than Just a River

    History of the Grand River in Missouri: More Than Just a River

    If you live in northern Missouri, you’ve probably crossed the Grand River dozens—if not hundreds—of times. Maybe you’ve fished it, floated it, watched it rise after a heavy rain, or crossed one of its bridges on your way to work. It winds through communities like Pattonsburg, Gallatin, Jameson, Chillicothe, and countless miles of farmland before…

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