Small North-Central Missouri Town Works to Survive

A few years after a factory shut down and its theater fell down, residents of the small north-central town of Brookfield decided it was time to get to work.

The town of about 4,500 residents is situated between Hannibal and St. Joseph on U.S. 36.

Residents have been working together to attract small businesses and persuade younger folks to stay.

The Kansas City Star reports the resurgence is being noticed by other towns and planning officials. While residents acknowledge more needs to be done, they say they are pleased with the results so far.

This Friday, the town will dedicate its Twin Parks Walk of Heroes honoring generations of service men and women. It's part of a festival this weekend to celebrate the residents' efforts.