This time our books are set in Iowa. Let us know which one is your favorite!
The Spirit Lake Massacre by Thomas Teakle
In A Little Town by Rupert Hughes
The Able McLaughlins by Margaret Wilson
Iowa's river road includes remnants of one of North America's oldest civilizations at Effigy Mounds National Monument. There are 1800s river town to drive through and museums to explore that look at the history of the Mississippi River. Fun fact: Iowa is the only state name that starts with two vowels! Click on the photo below to see an overview of the Great River Road in Iowa.
There are over 200 American Indian mounds preserved at Effigy Mounds National Monument. These mounds are considered sacred by many Americans, especially the Monument's 20 culturally associated American Indian tribes. Click on the picture to find out more about this National Monument.
The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque, IA is the country's largest museum & aquarium dedicated to the rich history, culture, life and ecosystems of the Mississippi River and its watershed. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium’s mission is to inspire stewardship by creating experiences where history and rivers come alive. Their vision is to become the world’s leader in interpreting and protecting the life, history and culture of our rivers, to create a more global, knowledgeable and engaged citizen. Click on the picture above for a general overview of this site. Click on the logo below to link directly to the Museum & Aquarium's website. Be sure to take a look at the webcams!
The Buffalo Bill Museum and River Pilots Pier is located in LeClaire, IA. It focuses on life along the Mississippi River and local history. One exhibit is the Lone Star, a wooden paddlewheel steam-powered towboat that is housed in a special pier. One of the local history exhibits is about the American West showman Buffalo Bill Cody who was born in LeClaire. Click on the picture to find out more about the riverfront and this museum!
Old Fort Madison was the first permanent U.S. military fortification on the Upper Mississippi. It was the site of Black Hawk's first battle against U.S. troops, the only real battle during the War of 1812 that was fought west of the Mississippi. It was also the location of the first U.S. military cemetery in the upper Midwest. The fort was named for James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. It was built to control trade and pacify Native Americans in the Upper Mississippi River region. Click on the photo to find out more and tour this site.
Iowa is famous for its Breaded pork tenderloin sandwich! Here is a recipe if you would like to try it out for yourself. Just click on the picture below!
