A new exhibition at the State Historical Society of Missouri in Columbia showcases photographs taken by Burford Royston, a rural Howard County mail carrier, in the 1950s.

The exhibition, Mail Carrier with a Camera: Photographs by Burford Royston, features more than 100 captivating images, mostly taken in the 1950s, that chronicle the lives of rural Howard County residents along Royston’s mail route. These photographs were selected from hundreds of slides in the Burford Leon Royston Collection, recently donated to the State Historical Society of Missouri by the Royston family. Burford’s keen eye captured portraits and landscapes of many people and places that have since disappeared. Yet, his imagery reflects the dynamic and spontaneous energy of rural life that continues to resonate with Missourians today. 

Made possible by a generous gift from Susan Vale, this exhibition will run through September of this year. The book by the same title, featuring select images, will be available beginning July 12 at the SHSMO Richard Bookstore. Books may also be ordered online at shop.shsmo.org.

This new book, published by the State Historical Society, features 107 of Royston’s photos, printed from his original slides. It features commentary by the State Historical Society of Missouri’s art curator, Dr. Joan Stack, while SHSMO editor and Missouri historian Kimberly Harper offers an Introduction. International award-winning photographer, 2023 Guggenheim Fellow, and Missouri resident Deanna Dikeman contributes the book’s Foreword.

“Burford Royston’s photos captured everyday life in rural Howard County with wit and poignancy,” said Dr. Stack. “His images, taken along his mail route, depict relationships among friends, family, and neighbors as he documented working farms, back roads, small towns, and the lives of ordinary Missourians. Royston’s subtle and candid observations of mid-century settings transcend time and offer us a glimpse into the vibrant communities he photographed.”

An opening reception and book release will take place on Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at the historical society, located at 605 Elm Street in Columbia. Regular operating hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. The society is closed on Sundays and Mondays.