Smithsonian Film Series — America in Color: Small Town Life

Overview

Grinnell College presents: America in Color: Small Town Life. A look at the charms and challenges of small-town life in America during the first half of the 20th century, presented entirely in color. At the turn of the 20th century, two-thirds of Americans lived in small towns, but by the 1960s, only a third remained. Some are lured to cities by the promise of opportunity and money, while others move there to escape racism and intolerance. Through it all, the myth of these quaint, harmonious communities continues to burn powerfully in the minds of many. This is the story of small-town America, from soapbox derbies and Will Rogers’ charm to postwar poverty and the Great Migration, presented in color.

Run time: 48 minutes. Following the screening, Leo Garcia, manager of the Strand 3 Theater, will present on the historic theater and its many transformations. This program is part of Grinnell College’s Smithsonian Affiliate public film series, which features Smithsonian-produced films exploring different aspects of American life and history. Each screening includes collaboration with community partners, faculty, and staff to connect the films to local experiences, Iowa history, and the broader American story—creating shared space for learning, reflection, and connection.

Address & Contact

For more information, contact:

• Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research
• (641) 269-3900
• communityenhance@grinnell.edu