This historic theatre is believed to be haunted by the apparition of a young girl who was murdered nearby. The Grotto is the largest artificial Grotto in the world, housing the worlds largest collection of gemstones and other valuable stones. In 1856, the bridge between Davenport and Rock Island was the first to span the mighty Mississippi River.[26]. Iowa is such a beautiful state, and we have plenty of scenic byways to cruise on and admire that beauty. The ghost of a 12-year-old boy . There are multiple stories associated with the bridge. Iowa is the mother of the famous Spirit Lake, the biggest glacier lake in the state. Officially nicknamed "The Hoosier State" and sometimes called "The Mother of Vice Presidents," Indiana was the 19 th state to join the United States of America on December 11, 1816. The Iowa-bound bridge opened in November 2020, and the Illinois-bound bridge in December 2021. However, most of the states lakes are artificial. They were the predecessors of the current Indycar. Iowa farms produce over 2 billion bushels of corn per year. Iowa was admitted to the union as the 29th state on Dec. 28, 1846. Commercial farming that utilizes large equipment can sometimes leave patches unharvested. People who have worked at Independence State Mental Hospital have claimed there are certain parts of the institution that they simply will not enter due to reports of paranormal activity. Iowa is the Ice Cream capital of the world. It is considered to be among the largest trail bridges in the world. This historic mansion is currently operated as a museum by the Blue Earth County Historical Society, and staff claim that even after the building has closed down for the night, some still walk the halls of the old house. It is known as Iowa 80. We have a pretty awesome state capital. Iowa is the Largest Corn Producer in America. 16. With an abundance of wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, Iowa's wine tourism scene has grown considerably. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The worlds largest truck stop is in Iowa. Sabula did not start as an island. Thank you! Below are some. In addition, ACT and SAT average scores in Iowa are typically high. Tara, or Terror, Bridge has a history that dates back to the 1800s. Iowa is nicknamed the Hawkeye State, after Hawk-eye, the scout in the 1826 novel. It crosses from Woodward to Ankeny across Des Moines river valley. One of the few athletes to compete in both the summer and winter Olympics is hurdler and bobsledder Lolo Jones of Des Moines, Iowa. Iowa is known as The Hawkeye State, but there has been much debate over the exact source and timing of the nickname. For the next hundred years, the land was fought over by the French and the Spanish, with the region being called French Louisiana or Spanish Louisiana. The ghost has been seen walking along the bank of the pit. The Goldfinch is a small migratory bird that prefers meadow habitats. 31st president of USA was born and brought up in Iowa, Herbert Clark Hoover was president of the united states from 1929 to 1933 and was born in Iowa. Sabula, Iowa, is an island community in Jackson County, Iowa. That facility was meant to house drug addicts, alcoholics, the mentally ill, the elderly, and the criminally insane. The Iowa State Fair takes place for 11 days every August at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. Wild roses are native to Iowa and can be found growing in the many meadows and prairies throughout the state. Most known for cornfields and the famous Iowa State Fair, people are often surprised that there is much more to Iowa than meets the eye. And it is2nd to Illinois in soybean production. The state also has major rivers along its border. John Wayne was the son of a pharmacist and grew up to become one of Hollywoods most famous movie stars. There are more golf courses per capita in Iowa than in any other state. She believes in serial commas, kindness, and good food. Iowa was an important location in the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804. Most of which are food processing companies. 2. The road is now considered a historic marvel and one of many weird Iowa facts. Interesting Facts. Over the years hundreds of people who have gone to the house have experienced an assortment of paranormal activity. ISU is well known for being a great school for science, engineering, and agriculture. The college also holds one of the largest concentrations of veterinary professionals, including the USDA's National Animal Disease Center, the National Veterinary Services Laboratories, and the Center for Veterinary Biologics. Centered around business, education, arts, and science, the University of Northern Iowa was founded in 1876 and is a public university. According to local legends, a small country road in Burlington, Iowa is haunted by the ghost of Lucinda. 29. To date, they have graduated over 7,500 veterinarians. 5. It is really a fun Facts about Iowa. Its no secret that Iowa is the best place to live. 14. Among other Iowa facts, this is the one you can share with your friends and impress them with your knowledge about the geography of Iowa. The Devil's Chair has no markings, and sits between the Peterson and Miller graves. People have also claimed to see the ghosts of former staff members and patients. Iowa State University's Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering is researching ways to fight food waste through drone usage to collect information on Iowa crops. It was then a home for people who struggled with mental health issues. Iowa is home to haunted Edinburgh Manor. Veterinarian and researcher, Dr. William Switzer created the first kennel cough vaccine at the Veterinary Medical Research Institute at Iowa State University in 1977. For over a decade, I have traveled to over 60 countries - from a budget backpacker to a business traveler, expat and then a digital nomad. In an orchard in 1880, a new variety of apples was discovered that would become known as the Red Delicious. The foundation/drive-/walkway is still there. The name Iowa comes from its indigenous Native American tribe, the Ioway Indians, who lived along the Mississippi River. The morning of October 31, 1991, a storm which would eventually become known as the "Halloween Blizzard" in most of Minnesota and the "Halloween Ice Storm" in Iowa began moving quickly northeastward through the Mississippi Valley.. In 1921, Herbert Hoover of Iowa became the 31. If Iowa were a country, its territory would be about the same size as that of Tajikistan or Nepal. It has nine caves that portray the life of Jesus. Iowa teaches tornado safety and has tornado warning systems in most public areas. Copyright 2022 NomadsUnveiled. 1. These are just some of the interesting Iowa facts to know about. Henry Grahame. Car accidents have been caused by apparitions standing in the middle of the road. Iowa State University is the oldest land grant college in the U.S.A. Decorah hosts Nordic Fest a three-day celebration of Decorah's Scandinavian heritage. The building started out in 1915 as a meat-packing plant, but changed hands to a packing operation. The mounds are now a National Historic Site and are considered sacred to Native Americans. One of the most well-known facts about the state of Iowa is that they are the top corn producer in the United States. All Rights Reserved. The elusive puffball and morel mushrooms are among the most sought-after by local foragers and chefs. Over 20 modern-day tribal nations across the Midwest have cultural associations with the Effigy Mounds. This hike through Gitchie Manitou State Preserve will have you running down the trail. The state of Iowa is divided into three distinct geological regions. In addition to education initiatives, the museum advocates for conservation and works with local organizations on research and restorative projects. This Maid-Rite is now, mysteriously, closed. A council of Dakota leaders decided to follow their example, declaring war on their white neighbors in an attempt to drive them away and regain their ancestral homelands. Witnesses claim to have seen her sitting in the hall after hours, and have felt her brush past them in the corridors. One of the most fun facts of Iowa is its rich soil also grows great grapes! 3. Erected in 1964 in Audubon, he weighs 45 tons.[22]. People claim this bridge is haunted by a ghost. From agriculture and tourism to sports and entertainment, theres plenty to see and do in this great state. The truck stop is not just a place for truckers to park their bread and butter earning machines, but it also hasa barbershop, chiropractor, and a huge museum with antique trucks. Nebraska, Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri, South Dakota, and Minnesota all share borders with Iowa. Des Moines resident F.A. Iowa State University professor, John Vincent Atanasoff, and student Clifford Berry, built the first electronic digital computer. But, for people who dont already live here (and know how awesome Iowa is), here are a few interesting facts that may just make you want to move: There is just no place like Iowa. So far there are about 70 excellent designs stretching from Wright Brothers Flyer to Notre Dame Cathedral. An estimated 358,000 tourists visit Iowa's wine country per year. Legend says her house once stood in the very spot where Swope Hall stands today. Des Moines serves as the state capital and the largest city in Iowa. [7], 27. People driving on the road claim to see Lucindas ghost walking around. 2. In Iowa, Otto Frederick Rohwedder created the first bread-slicing machine. Nevertheless, it was a monumental achievement and went down in the record books of Iowa facts and history. The Dibble House in Eldon, Iowa, was the real-life backdrop for the famous American Gothic painting. The building has served as a location for live performances as well as modern motion pictures. Left-handers are supposed to die 3 years earlier . Parts of the blockbuster disaster film, "Twister", were filmed in Ames, Iowa. You have entered an incorrect email address! Iowa is also sometimes called the Corn State or the Tall Corn State/Land Where the Tall Corn Grows because it produces more corn than any other state. Over 150 people have died on the grounds of Edinburgh Manor. CATEGORY 3 - FACT 2. Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. Legend has it that in the 1800s gypsies came through here often with their wagons. Iowa now ranks fifth on national records for organic farming. It was constructed in 1897, and its still functional to date! According to the owner, the spirits that reside there are previous owners of the house, civil war soldiers, and tuberculosis patients who all died on-site. Disembodied footsteps have also been heard on the second floor, and Employees who work late have heard unexplained footsteps and, at times, have heard their names called. It offers spectacular views of three states, Mississippi River, and the entire Dubuque central business district. Lowa has a high rank in beef, pork, corn, soybean, and cereal production. Patients come from all over Iowa and surrounding states for treatment at their esteemed cancer center. Claims have been made that if you drive on the bridge do not stop and make sure all of your doors and windows are closed and locked. Native American legend tells it that a young woman killed herself by jumping off the original bridge into the ravine below after learning that her sweetheart had been killed in battle in 1880. 5. It features exhibits, shows, music, food, and carnival rides. Iowa is the only state bordered by two navigable rivers; the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi River to the east. You probably never seen a wooden nickel, but here in Iowa, on a farm, is a 12-inch worlds largest wooden Nickel.[9]. Before European colonization, there were thousands of Iowa people across the great plains. The angel is often called the Black Angel because it has turned black over the years. Southeast Iowa is a hub for transcendental meditation, One of Iowas golden domes is used for meditation and masse. In 1915 the Cresco Theatre and Opera House opened in Cresco, Iowa. According to one story, a car full of football players was in an accident here when the car stalled. Then North Sioux is part of South Dakota while South Sioux is in Nebraska. Best known for the Nancy Drew series, author Mildred Wirt Benson was an Iowa native. Most of Iowas citizens are Christians, If you are thinking of moving to Iowa and are Christian, worry not because there are enough churches in Iowa. The governors of each state threatened each other with combat, with militias and volunteers called to gather at the border. The burial place of Omaha Indian Chief Blackbird, said to be buried here sitting upright on his horse, is rumored to be haunted. You can hardly pronounce it on your first trial. #scaryfacts #horrifyingfacts. EXTREMELY Unsettling Facts Pt. It was in 1892 that John Froelich invented the first gasoline-powered engine that could be driven backwards and forwards (tractor).[24]. Sliced bread was invented by an Iowan. Company number: 12574148. FACT 2 "The Grotto of the Redemption" was built by . Iowa also has some scary tales you can ever imagine. Black Hawk County in Iowa is also named for the famed warrior. Herbert Hoover was born in West Branch, Iowa to a Quaker family in 1874. Iowa also has many historical, cultural, and even "haunted" landmarks. Clear Lake, Iowa, is where the music died. Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. The Big Bopper Richardson all died when their plane crashed into a field there in 1959. This sacred site was constructed over a 42-year period, beginning in 1912, using semiprecious stones from every state in the U.S. and every world region. The Native Americans, said a pioneer, must have thought the Land was so beautiful that they kept shouting, Iowa, Iowa, Iowa, which translates to beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.. [3], A 25-mile trail bridge winds across five of Iowa towns. Sound on Earth travels through vibrations in the air. You can spend the night. This is the only town on the island. With a population of 3.2 million people, Iowa is the 3, The state has 99 counties, which are laid out as an, Iowa is named after the Iowa river, which is named after the Iowa tribe. 2. Completed in 1886, the Iowa State Capitol was an architectural wonder of its time. The Wild Rose was designated as the state flower in 1897. These lands make up the vast majority of the farmlands that currently support the local economy with agricultural products. Most of these places arent well publicized. As a Midwestern state, Iowa forms a bridge between the forests of the east and the grasslands of the high . Iowa is considered the most Midwestern state in the U.S. and offers plenty of historical and cultural experiences. She died of lead poisoning, which caused her to become mentally unstable and leap from a 3rd-story window. Love Iowa? George Nissen and Larry Griswold built the worlds first modern trampoline at the University of Iowa in 1934 as a training tool for athletes. A seat has been seen rocking, slowly, all by itself, and it is said that the theatre's employees have many more stories to tell. As Roman Catholic Capuchin Theophilus Riesinger worked, Emma is said to have flown across the room and clung to Local legend tells the tale of 15-year-old Kate Shelley, who in 1881 crawled across a badly damaged bridge during a terrible storm to warn an oncoming train that the bridge was out. The state has always held the first caucus in presidential elections since 1972, up until the most recent one in 2020. The combined depth of the West and East Okoboji Lakes makes them the deepest lake in the United States. This is the place to go if youre a serious athlete needing state-of-the-art facilities and instruction. High school dropouts are 8 times more . A chocolate-loving spirit resides at this old bowstring bridge. Developed by Engineering Professor Partha Sarkar, the simulator helps scientists study the effects of tornadoes for better planning on communities they threaten. 14) Some moths drink human blood. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Along with all of the bodies, the murder weapon, an ax, was found in the same room as the two Stillinger girls. If you spot any errors, feel free to get in touch and let me know! 40. Visitors claim to have heard ghostly laughter, running footsteps in At Calvary Cemetery, you can find the visuals for many stories told by school kids. Iowa has the worlds largest concrete bull. In the beginning, Sabula was not a separate island. In the futuristic series, Star Trek, Captain James T. Kirk was portrayed as being born in Riverside, Iowa in 2223. [18] Iowa on the map 2. Its not edible but is a perfect strawberry marketing strategy.[17]. Iowas population is actually more urban than rural61.1 percent vs. 38.9 percent. Due to its fascinating topography, Iowa is the land of rolling hills. The ball has a circumference of just over 24 feet. He may not be the tallest Gnome, but he is sure is the tallest concrete Gnome. A type of prairie rose with bright pink petals, they can be spotted in the meadows and wildlands around Iowa. In Ottumwa, its technically illegal for men to wink at women they dont know. Another Iowan, Norman Ernest Borlaug, wont the prize in 1980 for promoting the Green Revolution. Many overnight guests have recently interacted with ghosts of former residents. Up until June 9, 1912, Villisca, Iowa was an ordinary town. It is believed he died after cursing the winds. This site is said to be very active with spirits, in part because the old bridge was the site of two hangings. Malvern Manor was a hotel for traveling salesmen, but the arrival of the automobile killed railroad travel, and the place went broke. If any member of their group was sick and dying, they would simply bury Locals say a little boy's ghost appears at this popular fishing spot. According to the WHO (World Health Organization) and recent studies, the average person will shed roughly 112 pounds of skin in their lifetime. Pinterest was co-founded by a resident of Des Moines, Ben Silbermann. But in outer space, there is no air for sound to travel. He later moved to Los Angeles and won his title role as Frodo Baggins in "Lord of the Rings," launching his now-famous career. Iowa even had a regiment called the Greybeards because the men were all considered elderly, including one octogenarian. The Christmas Chapel contains a 300-lb. No points for guessing why; Iowa grows more corn than any other state. 21 Fun Iowa Facts. The store owners even caught paranormal activity on their security cameras. Iowa is one of the windiest states. This Enchanting And Historic Town In Iowa Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination, Bring Your Appetite To This Iowa Brewpub That Serves Up Over-The-Top BBQ Feasts, The Apple Festival At The Amana Colonies In Iowa Where Youll Have Loads Of Delicious Fun, The English Breakfast At This British-Themed Brunch Spot In Iowa Will Transport Your Taste Buds Across The Pond, We Checked Out The 10 Most Terrifying Places In Iowa And Theyre Horrifying, The Story Behind This Haunted Abandoned Asylum In Iowa Is Truly Creepy, These 10 Haunted Cemeteries In Iowa Are Not For The Faint Of Heart, Not Many People Realize These 10 Little Known Haunted Places In Iowa Exist, Villisca Ax Murder House (official)/Facebook, Cryptids and Monsters: The Van Meter Monster. 4. Reports say that the apparition of a 12-year-old girl in a rocking chair was seen rocking next to her grave. The best crop is grown to be corn. The first people came to what's now Iowa at least 12,000 years ago. This small gypsy cemetery is said to be haunted by a gypsy queen, who is guarded by a murder of crows. The Iowa Tribe, also known as the Ioway, was part of the Sioux people that once inhabited the Midwest. In 1927, Iowa inventor and engineer, Otto Frederick Rohwedder invented the automatic bread-slicing machine. Over 40 different varieties are grown in the state's 100 wineries. Many tales abound, such as one that says shortly after her burial, thieves tried to dig up Minnesota State University Mankato is said to have a ghost who rings buzzers and another who steals toilet paper in the Crawford Dorm. Edinburgh Manor is known for being "one of the most haunted places" and one of. Bats in Iowa have an important job as the state's natural pest control. It has a population of 3,155,070 (as of 2019) people, making it the 31 st most populous state. With these facts about Iowa, let us learn more about its history, people, geography, economy, culture, nature and wildlife and much more. [8], 25. Several murders have taken place on the premises. The Iowa Organic Association is leading the way to help farmers that want to convert to organic farming. Liang Chow, the gymnastics coach from Des Moines, has successfully coached two Olympic champions in the sport. To this day no one knows who committed the horrific crime. Some say a frustrated farmers ghost haunts the area. This bridge, built in 1901, is said to be her ghost's home. The famous cornfield where Kevin Costner lamented over baseball legends in Academy Award-nominated "Field of Dreams" was filmed in Dyersville, Iowa. It is the 106th largest city in the United States, with a population of 214,000 (metro 559,000). There are more hogs than people in Iowa. Most places that are haunted tend to fall into the creepy category. The Cresco Theatre and Opera House has also become home to numerous ghosts and assorted paranormal activity. Mirrored after similar festivals in Holland, the Orange City Tulip Festival showcases colorful tulips in parades and floral shows. Much of Iowa was mapped by Zebulon Pike, the Pikes Peak guy. Today the hospital is Independence State Mental Hospital. Some settlers came to work in lead mines. Iowa covers 55,857 mi (144,669 km), making it the 26. It is said that these sensations strengthen the closer one gets to a certain grave, one that has a headstone carved from part of a tree. It is one of 27 US states that are landlocked. The Iowa facility is known as the worlds top dance and gymnastics school. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! CATEGORY 3 - FACT 1. On that night a horrible crime was committed at what is now infamously known as the Villisca Ax Murder House. Her daughters commissioned the statue to honor their mother's vision. The longest, largest and oldest recreational bicycle touring event in the world is held here annually since 1973. Iowa, constituent state of the United States of America. There is much happening in Iowa to learn about. When. The state is named after the Ioway people, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Youll have to eat somewhere else, though. Finally, the Dissected Till Plains feature ridges formed by rivers cutting into the soil. Weird Iowa Facts. Her spirit has haunted both the Shattuck Theater and then the newly built Fisher Theater. Its only 12,980 feet shorter than the one in Colorado. 4. John Wayne, the son of a pharmacist, became one of the biggest stars in Hollywood. 2. Sarah/Flickr Our cost of living is much lower than average. Within the cemetery stands a bronze statue of an angel. It was the highest number since 1970. [19], 24. Iowa is bordered by the states of South Dakota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska. Destguides Ltd is registered in England. It's said that Farrar School is haunted. The Iowa Organic Association also makes information on Iowa organic farming more accessible to the public. Iowas state motto is Our liberties we prize and our rights we maintain. His childhood home is now a historic landmark in Iowa. The first bread slicing machine was invented in Iowa by Otto Frederick Rohwedder. First Inhabited By Iowa People. Iowa beats all the United States in corn production. Every year, only 69% of American high school seniors earn their diploma. A marker now covers the field where the shooting took place. [20], 21. On December 28th, 1846, Iowa was officially signed into the unionby President James K. Polk. Eighty-three percent of the citizens is either protestants or Catholics. His first machine only cost $12 to make! Many legends are associated with the Black Angel. The mystery of the Van Meter Monster will haunt your dreams. trip to this haunted restaurant in Cascade. Registered as a UNESCO City of Literature in 2008, the University of Iowa is known for several literary advancements. The largest man-made Grotto in the world, the Grotto contains the largest collection of precious stones and gems found anywhere in one location! Rumor has it that a student killed himself there, and everyone who is assigned to that room either dies or disappears. Iowa also leads the US in ethanol production. In 1682, they claimed the region for France. At 99%, Iowa has the highest literacy rate in the country, and at 90%, we have the highest graduation rate. Iowa has a rich history of influential people and was home to artists, inventors, movie stars, and presidents. 2. The famous actor John Wayne was born in Winterset on May 26, 1907. According to local lore, three witches were violently executed and were buried here, but not before threatening to curse anyone who desecrated their graves. Feedback They call it the Island City all the time. Iowa is known as the Corn State, the Tall Corn State, and the Land Where the Tall Corn Grows. The Black Angel Monument in Iowa is believed to be haunted. The Tulip Festival started in 1933 and has been a yearly tradition ever since. With a low overall crime rate and the second lowest murder rate in the country, Iowa is the sixth safest place to live, according to Movoto.com. Drivers along the road have reported sightings of Lucinda over the years. The butterfly stroke is now a standard in swimming from the Olympics to your local pool or local waterpark. Many versions of the popular dessert bar exist, and they are a staple at potlucks and gatherings in Iowa. 36. Iowa is a place of museums and aquariums. Lauren might be based in Florida, but she is always plotting out a new road trip route with her partner-in-crime, Pickles. Early on in the mental hospitals history patients were subjected to some rather unpleasant treatments. But the ghost here is Earling is famous for a 1928 exorcism that lasted more than 3 weeks. These prehistoric creatures stood 10 feet tall and weighed 2 or more tons.