Show Me State Of Mind Begins!
Summary
Host Dan explores quirky roadside attractions, starting with Missouri’s "Big Tree" and the bizarre history of Humansville, including a newspaper editor’s ghostly friend. He then visits the Leaning Tower of Niles in Illinois, a half-scale replica built to hide a water tank. Joined by friends Nicky Gifts and Angela Lamparsky, he celebrates the whimsical, often ignored Americana found in these unique local landmarks.
Topics discussed
Intro: The Show-Me State and the Big Tree
Humansville, MO: History and the Bread Contest
A.E. Babcock and his ghost friend Amelia Bower
Visiting the Big Tree and Champion Tree rankings
Pivoting to Niles, IL: The Leaning Tower of the Y
Origin story: Robert Ilg and the water tank
Tower history, restoration, and local fame
On-site visit: The bells and perspective photos
Discussion: Sister cities and the tower's legacy
Reflections on Americana and whimsical landmarks
Guest anecdotes: Skokie Review and local news
The 52-episode plan and the Four of Spades
Conclusion: Finding meaning in small places
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