Key Takeaways
- The United States is celebrating its semiquincentennial year, marking 250 years since the 13 colonies declared independence in 1776.
- Iowa is hosting various events throughout 2026 to commemorate this milestone, including lectures, tours, and discussions.
- Events include an assessment of the Ioway village of Iowaville, a Historic Hill Heritage Tour, and a book club discussion on "American Scripture".
- Iowans are encouraged to share their own USA 250 events to help spread the word.
Introduction to USA 250
The year 2026 marks a significant milestone in American history – the semiquincentennial anniversary of the 13 colonies declaring independence in 1776. To commemorate this occasion, Iowans will be celebrating throughout the year with various events and activities. These events aim to educate and engage the public about the state’s rich history and its connection to the broader American story. From lectures and tours to discussions and book clubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
Iowaville: Uncovering the Past
One of the upcoming events is an assessment of Iowaville, a historic Ioway village situated on the Des Moines River in Van Buren County. On January 18, Cindy Peterson from the Office of the State Archaeologist and Alan Kelley, tribal preservation officer for the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, will share their research and insights about life in Iowaville. This event, which takes place at the Lacey-Keosauqua State Park Lodge, is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the significance of Iowaville as an important tribal center and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
Exploring the Historic Hills Scenic Byway
For those interested in exploring the state’s scenic beauty and rich history, the Historic Hills Scenic Byway tour is a must-attend event. Spanning two days, January 18-19, the tour will take visitors on a journey across southeast and south central Iowa. The tour will feature state and tribal presenters sharing stories about life in the area, including a guided tour of the Van Buren County Courthouse in Keosauqua and a visit to the American Gothic House in Eldon. While admission may be charged at some sites, participants are responsible for their own meals and lodging. To learn more about the tour, interested individuals can contact Christina at christina@pathfindersrcd.org or 641-472-6177.
Delving into American History
Book lovers and history enthusiasts will appreciate the America 250 Book Club, which will meet on January 22 at the Murray Conference Center at Living History Farms in Urbandale. The discussion will focus on "American Scripture" by Pauline Maier, in conjunction with the Declaration of Independence. Participants are required to register in advance, and admission is $12. This event provides a unique opportunity for individuals to engage with American history and explore its significance in a thought-provoking and interactive setting.
Sharing Your USA 250 Event
As Iowa celebrates its rich history and connection to the United States’ semiquincentennial anniversary, residents are encouraged to share their own USA 250 events with the community. Whether it’s a lecture, tour, or cultural celebration, every event contributes to the state’s vibrant cultural landscape. By sharing their events, Iowans can help spread the word and create a sense of community and shared pride in the state’s history. To share an event, individuals can simply reach out and provide details, allowing others to join in the celebration and commemorate this significant milestone in American history.