As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, Iowans can rediscover the rich and diverse role Iowa played in helping shape our country.
To mark this once-in-a-generation opportunity, we are partnering with Iowa’s Scenic Byways to kick off a series of educational presentations celebrating several historical locations across the state from January to June.
There are six monthly events, scheduled along Iowa’s Scenic Byways. Join us at the events below to learn about Iowa’s unique and memorable contributions to our nation’s past.
January 2026
An Assessment of Iowaville (1765-1824) by Cindy Peterson and Alan Kelley
Date: Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026
Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Location:
Lacey Keosauqua State Park (Lacey-Keosauqua Lodge)
22895 Lacey Trail
Keosauqua, IA 52565
Event Details: Discover Iowaville, a historic Báxoje (Ioway) village in Van Buren County. Cindy Peterson and Alan Kelley share research, stories, and insights on its significance and NHL recommendation.
Get more information
Historic Hills Byway
February 2026
An Overview of Montauk (1874–1912) by Nurit Finn
Date: Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location:
Clermont Opera House
400 Mill St.
Clermont, IA 52135
Event Details: Montauk was the home of Governor William Larrabee. Learn about recent research at the site and details about the Larrabee family.
River Bluffs Scenic Byway
March 2026
Fort Madison and the War of 1812 with State Archaeologist John Doershuk
April 2026
Iowa and the Meskwaki Nation (1856–Present) with Jonathan Buffalo
May 2026
Insights into Iowa’s Transportation History with a panel of experts
June 2026
Iowa’s Underground Railroad Connections with Barry Jurgensen