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

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: Join us for a presentation that explores Iowa’s only documented War of 1812 site. This talk will feature research and findings from the Office of the State Archaeologist.

The Great River Road National Scenic Byway

April 2026

Iowa and the Meskwaki Nation (1856–Present) with Jonathan Buffalo

More details coming soon!

Iowa Valley Scenic Byway

May 2026

June 2026