 Two newspapers, the "Chariton Courier" and "Keytesville Signal", served the community.Business and industry at that time consisted of Keytesville Roller Mill, a large water-powered grist mill on Muscle Fork Creek, two banks, a building and loan association, two hotels, a distillery, general mercantiles, restaurants, and sundry other businesses.Due to its location north of the Wabash Railroad line, the merchants of Keytesville needed a reliable and convenient way to attract potential customers.