Discovery Series Ornament – Iowa

Discovery Series Ornament – Iowa is here!

Iowa’s history traces back to Indigenous tribes like the Sauk, Fox, and Ioway, who inhabited the land for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. In 1838, Iowa became a territory, and on December 28, 1846, it was admitted to the Union as the 29th state. The region quickly developed as an agricultural powerhouse, with settlers transforming the vast prairie lands into fertile farmlands that would become the backbone of the state’s economy.

Here are some of Iowa’s symbols and landmarks according to the design of the ornament:

– The tractor symbolizes Iowa’s deep agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Farming machinery has been crucial to Iowa’s economic development, allowing farmers to cultivate massive expanses of fertile land more efficiently. Iowa remains a leading producer of agricultural equipment, with many global tractor manufacturers having significant operations in the state.

– The Eastern Goldfinch, also known as the American Goldfinch, represents Iowa’s vibrant wildlife and natural beauty. These bright yellow birds are common throughout the state’s meadows and farmlands, bringing cheerful color to the landscape. The species is known for its melodious song and remarkable ability to change its plumage between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

– The Maid-Rite sandwich is a beloved Iowa culinary icon featuring seasoned, loose ground beef served on a soft hamburger bun, typically topped with mustard, pickles, and chopped onions. Originating in Muscatine, Iowa, in the 1920s, this unique sandwich differs from traditional burgers by using crumbled, un-formed meat that creates a distinctive texture and flavor profile. The Maid-Rite has become a staple of Iowa’s food culture, with dedicated restaurant chains and passionate fans who consider the loose meat sandwich a quintessential representation of Midwestern comfort food.

– Bellevue State Park, located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, offers visitors a picturesque natural retreat with stunning river valley landscapes. The park spans 780 acres and features wooded bluffs, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails. Established in 1966, Bellevue State Park provides opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation.

– The state hosts numerous cycling events, including the famous RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa), which attracts thousands of cyclists each year. Iowa’s relatively flat terrain and extensive trail systems make it an ideal location for cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels.

– The National Balloon Classic is an annual hot air balloon festival held in Indianola, Iowa, attracting ballooning enthusiasts from across the country. Over nine days, the event features breathtaking balloon launches, competitive races, and various family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees. Since its inception in 1989, it has become a beloved tradition, celebrating the beauty and excitement of hot air ballooning within the heart of Iowa.