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.
Next Stop: 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: Nurit, President of Wapsi Valley Archaeology, shares research on Montauk—the 1874 home of Gov. Larrabee—exploring its Gilded Age history, architecture, family life, and farm. Learn why it’s on the National Register. Sponsored by Iowa DOT for A250. This presentation is open to the public and is sponsored by the Iowa DOT in honor of America 250.
March 2026
Fort Madison and the War of 1812 with State Archaeologist John Doershuk
Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026
Time: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Location:
Fort Madison Riverfront Pavilion
902 Riverview Drive
Ft. Madison, IA 52627
Event Details: Discover Fort Madison (1808), a key site in U.S. westward expansion. Learn about archaeological finds—fort-era deposits, battlefield features, and “Black Hawk’s ravine”—that refine site boundaries for research and preservation. Open to the public and sponsored by the Iowa DOT in honor of America 250.
April 2026
May 2026
June 2026
Past Events
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.
