Historic Jefferson Highway

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Broadcasting every 4th Thursday, this Big Blend Radio podcast focuses on the historic Jefferson Highway, an international highway that runs from Winnipeg, Canada down through Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, to New Orleans, Louisiana. There are some parts of Arkansas that were also part of the historic route. It was created by the Jefferson Highway Association, which was originally founded in 1915. The Jefferson Highway, also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway,” is a historic vacation route that is going through a tourism rebirth and it’s exciting for travelers and destinations alike!

  1. 3D AGO

    Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, TX: Part 3 - Stage & Style

    Welcome back to Day 3 of our 4-day special series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville," part of the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast. This series is the result of our personal visit back in the fall of 2025, a trip we agreed to after meeting the incredible Stacey Foley at the Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester, Oklahoma, earlier that summer. Today, we are talking Style and Stage. Greenville has transformed its historic downtown into a bustling entertainment district. We stroll through the downtown and enjoy the interactive Hearts of Hunt County Art Trail, and the incredible murals—specifically "A Legacy of Performance," which showcases all the legends who have played here. We take you inside the Greenville Municipal Auditorium (GMA), a national treasure that has completed a multimillion-dollar renovation, making it a state-of-the-art venue with sound systems rivaling major arenas. Hear about the backstory of this renovation in our first podcast with Micah McBay and Stacey Foley (linked below). Then, we take you inside The Texan Theater, owned by Barbara Horan. It is truly a house concert experience. From the Houdini posters found in the walls to the Skybox VIP seating, it is where legends like Billy Bob Thornton and Lukas Nelson come to play for an intimate crowd. Finally, we close the show at Rebel Mary’s Boutique. Tammy Harris is a former nurse turned boutique owner who believes fashion is about confidence. We’re talking about her incredible upcycled silk pieces and the "Community over Competition" spirit that defines Greenville’s small businesses. 🔗 Links Mentioned in this Episode: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgrenvilletx.com/ * Initial Episode with Stacey Foley & Micah McBay: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/e/greenville-texas/ * The Texan Theater: https://www.facebook.com/TexanTheater/ * Rebel Mary's Boutique: https://rebelmarys.com/ * Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ * Jefferson Highway Dispatch Updates: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas PART 1 & 2 OF THIS SERIES - Part One: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-one - Part Two: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-two

    58 min

  2. 4D AGO

    Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, TX: Part 2 - Growth, Integrity & Local Soul

    Welcome back to Day 2 of our special Jefferson Highway 4-part series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." After exploring the incredible history at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum in Part 1, today we look at the living, breathing pulse of this Northeast Texas community. Recorded in the heart of downtown at Prairie Coffee House, we sit down with local leaders and residents to discuss how Greenville is growing—and doing it with integrity. In this episode: * Stacey Foley (Greenville Tourism Manager): Our "tour guide" shares the inside scoop on Greenville’s attractions and community spirit. * Randy Tarpley (Tarpley Realtors): Insights into the booming housing market and why people are flocking to Greenville. * Hannah Bywater (Greenville Chamber of Commerce): Discussing local business growth and the town's welcoming atmosphere. * Local Perspectives: Residents Xachary Aguilar and Natalie Pegg share why this city is the perfect place to live, work, and visit. We also highlight how Greenville is preserving its past while building its future, including the amazing Lofts on Lee vacation rentals right above us! Links Mentioned: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/  * The Route: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas  * Part 1 of the Podcast Series: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-one  * Prairie Coffee House:https://prairiecoffeeco.com/  * Tarpley Realtors: https://www.tarpleyrealtors.com/  * Greenville Chamber of Commerce:  https://www.greenvillechamber.com/  * Stay Updated: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

    34 min

  3. 5D AGO

    Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, Texas: Part One - The Hero & The Heritage

    Welcome to Part One of our special 4-Part series: "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." The historic Jefferson Highway is a 115-year-old international treasure, stretching from the pines of Winnipeg to the palms of New Orleans. Today, we anchor in Northeast Texas to explore why Greenville is the ultimate "Homebase" for your Texas Jefferson Highway adventure. We’re driving through the historic Blackland cotton fields, visiting the "Highway Sisters" of Bonham and Denison, and diving deep into the soul of the region at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum. Our guest, Susan Lanning, shares the incredible legacy of one of America’s most decorated soldiers and the "White Gold" industry that built this community. In This Episode: * The Homebase: Why the Comfort Suites is the perfect base for your trip. * The Drive: Navigating the history of the Blackland Prairie and the stunning Bonham courthouse. * The Legend: Susan Lanning on Audie Murphy and the American Cotton Museum. * Mascot Update: Priscilla the Sock Monkey and Stinky the Donkey hit the road! Resources & Links: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/   * The Museum: https://cottonmuseum.com/   * The Route: https://jeffersonhighway.org/   * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas  * Stay Updated: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

    17 min

  4. FEB 16

    Black History Experiences in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana (a Jefferson Highway destination), with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Joining the conversation are special guests Van Roy, Avoyelles Community Arts Liaison, and Lauren Harmason of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council, who share how the parish honors Black history through arts, culture, cuisine, and community storytelling. The discussion highlights the vital role of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council in supporting local artists and educational programs, while exploring the lasting impact of Solomon Northup’s legacy in the region. The episode also spotlights the historic marker honoring legendary blues harp player Little Walter, and the special unveiling event that welcomed acclaimed blues guitarist Buddy Guy—underscoring Avoyelles Parish’s deep musical roots and cultural influence. Listeners will discover how culinary traditions, creative expression, and community events work together to preserve and celebrate the parish’s diverse heritage. From meaningful cultural experiences to hidden gems beyond New Orleans, this episode invites travelers to connect more deeply with Louisiana’s living history through art, food, and local voices. 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com  🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Humanities Council: https://AvoyellesArts.com  🔗 Solomon Northup Committee for Commemorative Works: https://SNCCW.com  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/  LET'S NOT FORGET THE MUSIC WE TALKED ABOUT!  - Little Walker: https://open.spotify.com/album/2Y2oBBKe7dnNGJrf6HAGBc?si=OFpsVJy7QK2FjKhjB2FXHg  - Joe Simon: https://open.spotify.com/album/3KXu9WiHi6HlxXM9aZtdQU?si=rxBCgwpfRBORYLx6zwW6mg   - Buddy Guy: https://open.spotify.com/album/7bkjnyiMG8mXzmEyfY49wD?si=pVPyLP-dQ-qgDQis55xf7Q  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Way Back When," "Historic Jefferson Highway," "Toast to The Arts," "Big Daily Blend" & "Vacation Station" Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    39 min

  5. FEB 14

    Slow Travel Adventures in Louisiana’s River Parishes

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel" Podcast Channel with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Kathryn (Kat) Anderson shares her immersive journey through Louisiana’s scenic River Parishes which are part of the historic Jefferson Highway corridor. From peaceful kayaking excursions and memorable alligator encounters to savoring regional cuisine like crawfish and char-grilled oysters, Kat highlights the beauty and benefits of slow travel. Along the historic Jefferson Highway corridor, the River Parishes offer a welcoming community spirit, rich cultural traditions, and authentic Louisiana flavors beyond the bustle of New Orleans. Kat also discusses the evolving world of travel writing, the importance of sustainable travel practices, and how meaningful connections with local people and places create more rewarding travel experiences. Whether you’re planning a Gulf South getaway or seeking inspiration to travel more intentionally, this conversation celebrates the joy of slowing down and truly experiencing a destination. 🎧 Read Kat’s article here: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/exploring-louisianas-river-parishes  🌐 Follow Kat Anderson: https://coffeeandmascara.org/  📘 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

    32 min

  6. JAN 23

    Colo, Iowa: Preserving Highway History at the Reed-Niland Corner

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show takes us to the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa, a beloved crossroads and symbol of Americana along the Jefferson Highway. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. The featured guest is Brenda McGuire of the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa. Follow the Reed-Niland Corner on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Reed-Niland-Corner-100064692456354/  The conversation dives into the history of COLO, a small farming community with deep roots tied to agriculture, travel, and hospitality — and a name with a memorable backstory. Local lore shares that COLO was named after a dog belonging to a railroad official, a detail that perfectly reflects the town’s small-town charm and Americana spirit.  Hear how Charlie Reed originally started the gas station to help travelers, how community members are preserving the Reed-Niland Corner through a museum and community events, and why community engagement is essential to keeping Jefferson Highway stories alive. From historic markers and nostalgic road trips to hot beef sandwiches, homemade pies, and pie-eating contests, this episode celebrates slow travel and living history. JEFFERSON HIGHWAY RESOURCES The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  -  The Jefferson Highway Travel Guide Website: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  - Jefferson Highway Dispatch – A Substack "newsletter" publication: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  - The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When" and "Road Trip Radio, podcast channels.  Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    50 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Celebrating 110 years of the Historic Jefferson Highway

    This special episode of the Jefferson Highway Podcast celebrates 110 years since Edwin T. Meredith first launched the idea of the Jefferson Highway, the historic “Pine to Palm” route connecting Winnipeg to New Orleans.  Cohost Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, joins the conversation to explore the highway’s history, the early challenges in its creation, the role of community participation, and the ongoing mission to map, preserve, and promote this international heritage road. Learn how traveling the Jefferson Highway supports small towns, preserves historic corridors, and continues America’s tradition of discovery through road-tripping and cultural connection. Visit the Jefferson Highway Association at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  We also highlight two major new resources now available for modern travelers: 🌐 NEW: Jefferson Highway Travel Guide Website – The brand-new online guide featuring updated travel directories, lodging, historic stops, attractions, and community resources along the route. The interactive map is in progress, but the directories are fully live. The quarterly digital Jefferson Highway Travel Guide publication will be out in January 2026. Visit https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  📰 NEW: Jefferson Highway Dispatch – Our new Substack publication offering traveler insights, historical stories, updates from the road, special features, and community spotlights. Subscribe: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When," "Road Trip Radio," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.  Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    41 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    The Dirty South – An Anniversary Film Special

    In this Big Blend Radio episode, we celebrate the two year anniversary of "The Dirty South," a critically acclaimed indie film written and directed by Natchitoches local Matthew Yerby, and starring Willa Holland, Shane West, and Dermot Mulroney. Joined by filmmaker Matthew Yerby, producer Suzann Toni Petrongolo, and actor Andrew Vogel, this lively conversation dives into the art of indie filmmaking, character development, music, and the creative process that brought this Southern story to life. Filmed on location in Natchitoches, Louisiana—a charming destination along the historic Jefferson Highway— The Dirty South adds to the city’s rich cinematic legacy, which also includes classics like "Steel Magnolias." Today, Natchitoches proudly celebrates its film trail, drawing visitors eager to explore where iconic stories were made. The guests share behind-the-scenes stories from the production, the emotional heartbeat of the film, and the power of collaboration in independent cinema. Tune in for an inspiring look at how place, people, and passion intersect in storytelling. 🎥 Watch the film on Amazon Prime (an numerous platforms through your ROKU): https://www.amazon.com/Dirty-South-Willa-Holland/dp/B0CKMXRSDP  🎵 Listen to the soundtrack on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1ZA96Ajwre0IDgr8fApcqt

    35 min
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About

Broadcasting every 4th Thursday, this Big Blend Radio podcast focuses on the historic Jefferson Highway, an international highway that runs from Winnipeg, Canada down through Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, to New Orleans, Louisiana. There are some parts of Arkansas that were also part of the historic route. It was created by the Jefferson Highway Association, which was originally founded in 1915. The Jefferson Highway, also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway,” is a historic vacation route that is going through a tourism rebirth and it’s exciting for travelers and destinations alike!

Information

  • Creator
    Big Blend Radio Network
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Big Blend Radio and Magazines
  • Show Website
    Historic Jefferson Highway