Time travel in Joplin, Missouri

Growing up in Joplin and knowing of its rich history, I was always frustrated that there wasn't more video documentation of Joplin's early days. Where was the footage of the Conner Hotel's opening or the trolly chugging down Main street? Where were recordings of the bands playing on a Sunday afternoon in Electric Park?
Luckily, using new(ish) AI technology I have been able to add life and movement to previously still images from Joplin's opulent history. The process has been exciting and incredible fascinating. However, AI isn't perfect, and I didn't want to rewrite history. I tried to only include clips that stick very close to what actually existed. Outside of a few bizarre horse & buggy combos, some fantastical trolley cars and incorrect typography, it was able to produce a pretty close-to-reality depiction of the city!
In terms of which images I chose to animate, I picked highlights of Joplin's history ranging from iconic architectural gems, like the Conner and Electric Park, to cultural events like parades. The video wouldn't be complete without including nods to Route 66 with kitschy places such as the Rocket Motel.
I hope you enjoy the trip!
#timetravel #Joplin #Missouri #1800s #vintage #retro #route66 #Victorian #1940s #Midwest

[@jillmhunter]

Brilliant, Patrick. Thank you for sharing your talent.

[@bethanima11]

What a treat! Thank you! Love the giants @ :48 and all of the beautifully colored postcards that came alive and wonderful music accompaniment. Oh, Patrick. I love you.

[@marlalepage8648]

This is cool! Love it!! Thank you for doing this! ❤️

[@laurenbedell9751]

Amazing!!

[@didntwant2usegmail]

This is wonderful! I am also partial to the way you chose to end it. I sincerely hope we as a city will keep that building

[@deltatomlinson5028]

Oh my Gawd Patrick! I LOVE that video!!! I've been very interested in the history of Joplin before I was born in 1960 heading its way down from the Lead Days. Maybe more there are more videos around Joplin, like Carthage, Spurgeon, ... But I'm a new fan Patrick!

[@patrickm100]

I'm glad you liked the video. It was really fun to make and to see those images I have known for decades come alive in such a beautiful way. I thought about doing one on Carthage. That place is so beautiful too! We'll see if I can carve out time to do it!!

[@AndyDexterity]

I live here now. I love parades that grow as they go!

[@patrickm100]

Ha ha! Grow little parade, GROW! Welcome home!