This content is sponsored by the Monsanto Fund’s America’s Farmers Community Outreach programs, but views and thoughts are my own.

The train going through Blythedale, MO in 1981, the last year.
A few weeks ago I shared my thoughts with you on how America’s Farmers grow America. I am very passionate about my small town and rural living. I believe that America is truly great because of everyone, including our small towns and farming communities. I asked for all of you to share your stories on what makes you #MyTownProud. It’s been fun seeing these pop up on Instagram and Twitter!

Blythedale, MO Methodist Church built in 1919 where my husband and I got married.
Really when I think of my town I think of the three towns that have came together to build an amazing school. The town I live nearest to, Blythedale, has a whopping population of 190. The school closed in the early 1960’s, when my dad was in the 5th grade, and the train which made the town such a busy place stopped coming through in 1981. It was a sad time for my town when they lost their school but three towns, including mine, came together to start a school in the northern part of the county.

My Great Uncle, Hugh, at an old gas station in Blythedale, MO.
With the joining of the towns came enormous support for our school and communities. I have honestly never seen such a supportive community than ours. All the memories have been passed down through the generations creating a huge sense of family. There is nothing better than the pride that comes from our community.

My parents local insurance business supporting and sponsoring my son’s winning Little League baseball team this year.
Our community is very supportive of our school and the sports activities but also the academics and music department. With the hiring of a new music teacher a few years ago our community has stepped up to help raise thousands of dollars for the music department.

Neighbors coming together to raise money for our school’s music department.
We now have an outstanding marching band and drumline. They are seriously amazing! It’s with the help of our community and neighbors that we are able to stand out as a small town. It’s why I’m #MyTownProud and what makes rural communities so special.

Our marching band putting on a show to raise funds from the community.
Check out the America’s Farmers Community Outreach Programs and the new My Town campaign on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube to show your support.
Do you have a #MyTownProud story? Share it in the comments below or on social media using #MyTownProud.
How sweet! I agree you should be proud. Small towns are important and full of life. I love living in my big city, but I appreciate the beauty of a small town just the same!
Nice!
People in small towns really seem to pull together. Big cities can get a little impersonal but a sense of community can sometimes be found there too.
How awesome! Big cities are too impersonal for me. Give me a small town any day
The best part of small town living is how in time of crisis everyone bands together and helps eachother out like family. You also can share in the positive things that happen as well. Great piece! Thank you! 🙂
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I personally like the rural town I live in too. It is good for bringing up kids.
I miss the small town where I grew up. People were genuinely nice and hospitable.
I live in a small town myself (in Italy) and what’s great about it is that it has everything: schools, churches, shops and malls…the only thing missing is a place were teenagers and college students can parties in