Made In Missouri

Taking a step into James Country Mercantile is like taking a step back in time. Its owners are among the country's few remaining "sutlers," or merchants who follow armies—in this instance, Civil War reenactors—to sell provisions.

Headquartered in St. Charles, Henschel Hat Company is one of the few remaining hat manufacturers in the United States. Thanks to major retail relationships with companies like Disney, Bass Pro Shops, and L.L. Bean, these toppers enjoy wide appeal.

For five decades, Hannibal-based potter Steve Ayers has made a beautiful balance of form and function the focus of his work. These days the artist is working with his daughter, Lindsey, and the results are truly a thing to behold.

Now in its third year, Millers Rustic Sawmill's annual Sawdust Fest has become a must-see event. Attendees can take in various demonstrations and shop with regional artisans. And trust us, you do not want to miss the belt sander race.

Craving a little luxury? Consider caviar. Believe it or not, this delicacy is harvested close to home in Osage Beach. Spoon a little on top of some crème fraîche and pour a glass of champagne and voila—a meal fit for royalty.

James Buchanan Eads was born on this date in 1820. The famous St. Louisan was responsible for constructing the Eads Bridge, pioneering the use of the diving bell, and building ironclads for the use of the US Navy during the Civil War.

For mother-daughter duo Sally Borzillo and Molly Monahan, operating Saleigh Mountain Co.—their shoe repair and leather goods shop in Hermann, Missouri—offers an outlet for creativity, craftsmanship, and superior customer service.

For fiber artist Bella Erakko, the craft of weaving altar cloths is a vehicle for sending well-wishes into the world. With each order for a commissioned piece, she asks three questions: What do you want to wrap yourself in—peace, courage, love?

These two Cape Girardeau painters write and illustrate children's books in an unconventionally collaborative way. Their method is a fast-paced give-and-take that requires absolute trust, open minds, and a willingness to pick up and pivot.

In Ken Gilberg’s line of work, he gets on his soapbox daily. He loves to speak out about Herbaria, his St. Louis-based company’s all-natural, vegetable-based soaps, deodorants, bath bombs, bath salts, moisturizers, aftershaves, insect repellents, and gifts.