Comments for Iowa Tourism

Comment on Burlington Bees Baseball - Burlington, Iowa by Editor

Editor — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 03:55:19 +0000

No, they were with the Chicago White Sox in 1999-2000

Comment on Francesca’s House - Winterset, Iowa by Roberto Melo

Roberto Melo — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:59:04 +0000

It’s hard to accept the evil side of human kind. Destroy something so beautiful and harmless… I went to visit all the bridges but did not get to see the house. Who ever did this horrible thing needs to be punished by LAW!!!

Comment on Children’s Square USA - Christian Home Association - Council Bluffs, Iowa by cody winger

cody winger — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:29:12 +0000

they just have awesome staff there

Comment on Burlington Bees Baseball - Burlington, Iowa by FLOYD HUNTLEY

FLOYD HUNTLEY — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:30:40 +0000

DID THE BURLINGTON BEES USED TO BE A CHICAGO CUB’S FARM TEAM?

Comment on Eden Valley Refuge - Baldwin, Iowa by Dennis Eden

Dennis Eden — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:47:09 +0000

Local Boy Scouts were here in 2009. Place has phenomenal natural beauty. The bunkhouse is are absolutely perfect. Did see a little trash along the trails, but no worse than any other park. Maquoketa Caves State park is a short drive away, but is often full and is a big tourist draw. Eden valley would be a more secluded option to the state park. Anyone who think Iowa is flat needs to spend some time here.

Comment on Children’s Square USA - Christian Home Association - Council Bluffs, Iowa by NANCY CHADWICK

NANCY CHADWICK — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 03:17:03 +0000

I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY THAT I HAVE SPOKEN WITH MY GRAND-DAUGHTER CURSTY PIPER AND SHE SEEMS TO BE HAPPY THERE BUT WANTS TO COME HOME. MT GRAND-SON GAVEN GREEN WILL NOT TALK TO ME YET BUT WILL GIVE HIM TIME. JUST WANT TO SAY I THINK YOU ALL ARE DOING A GREAT JOB AND IT TAKES SPECIAL HEARTED PEOPLE TO DO WHAT YOU ALL DO EVERYDAY. I HAVE SPOKEN TO DUSTY AND HOPEFULLY WE WILL GET OUR BABIES BACK HOME HERE TO ALABAMA WITH US. WE MISS THEM VERY MUCH AND LOVE THEM VERY MUCH. BUT THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO TO KEEP THEM SAFE, AND FEEL LIKE SOMEONE REALLY CARES FOR THEM WHILE THEY CANT BE HOME WITH THE ONES THAT LOVE THEM THE MOST.

Comment on Nodaway Valley Historical Museum And Goldenrod School House - Clarinda, Iowa by John H Minter

John H Minter — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:11:28 +0000

I visited the Nodaway Historical Museum in 2008, and I was pleasantly surprised to see so many items on display. If all goes well, I hope to see you again in 2011, when I could be visiting Clarinda to see the New Glen Miller Museum. Thanks again for a very pleasant visit.

John H Minter
148 Breedon Street
Long Eaton
Nottingham
United Kingdom NG10 4FE.

Comment on Iowa State Penitentiary - Fort Madison, Iowa by Miranda Webster

Miranda Webster — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:18:45 +0000

THAT is a BRILLIANT idea joyce Donaldson! put the new one out on the farm land or something.
Wht a cool idea! My HUGe family would go, adn bring people to it in the future as well.
another attraction to fort madison…
brilliant!

Comment on St. Patrick’s Church - Georgetown, Iowa by John P. O'Brien

John P. O'Brien — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:14:59 +0000

In response to Judith Heeland (Heyland) Pierce, I have probably the most complete listing of the headstones in the St. Patrick cemetery at Georgetown. I have photographed all of the headstones that can be found and have used the information to update the Iowa Genealogical Society listing for the cemetery. I do not find any “Heyland” or “Heeland” listed in the cemetery listing.

My lists for the St. Mary’s cemetary, Weller, and St. Mary’s cemetery show a number of “Heyland” and “Heland” headstons. However I do not find a headstone in for “William B. Heyland” in any of the cemetery listings that I have.

I would be glad to send Judith a copy of the listing if she would contact me at obrienjp@drivehq.com . I would also be happy to send her copies of any of the headstone photos that she might want.

It is my understanding that years ago a number of the headstones that had fallen over were removed.

Best regards,

John P. O’Brien

Comment on Eden Valley Refuge - Baldwin, Iowa by Cassandra Collins

Cassandra Collins — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 22:35:18 +0000

Eden Valley is one of my most favorite places on this earth! I hope it retains its old-growth woods feel and doesn’t become a “tourist attraction” for people who don’t know how to treat nature. I’m in California but when I was last there in 2002, there were beer cans and trash on the path into the park. Very sad!

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by margaret Buitenhof

margaret Buitenhof — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 14:46:43 +0000

This is a really charming read, and I can understand the magic this little guy worked in Spencer. Well written, with SOUL!

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by David Ward

David Ward — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 21:49:16 +0000

Until 3 days ago, when I was given the book, I had never heard of Dewey - never! - despite the lines of communication that have been available.

I feel that I have missed an important event. From the moment I started this book I was “hooked, line & sinker”. I don’t mind admitting that tears flowed on more that one page. I enjoyed that book, the description of Iowa, of Spencer, of the library, of the staff, of the all the visitors of the library. But most of all thank you Vicky Myron, not only for giving us an insight into your own life and familt but also for putting into words the pleasures, happiness, worries and sadness of every day life with a cat called Dewey and to Dewey - thank you for being.

Comment on Sidney Iowa Rodeo - Sidney, Iowa by Jacob sith

Jacob sith — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:39:25 +0000

hey people out there if your near sidney iowa and know how to ride join the dusters i am currently in the dusters and trust me it is the best friend, spirit and moral making club out there!

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by Tracy L. Hannon

Tracy L. Hannon — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:53:54 +0000

Just Finshed reading the book on Dewey, Found it very funny. And cats are the most comical you can get.

Comment on Swedish Heritage Museum - Swedesburg, Iowa by Wallace Lind

Wallace Lind — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:18:20 +0000

I have driven by your sign many times (en route from Belleville IL to Urbandale IA) & always seem to be in a hurry. I am very proud of my Swedish heritage & I would love to “catch” you at your museum. My Swedish ancestors settled in Marathon Iowa where there are many, many Swedes . . . or *were*. Sadly, the old enclaves are fading away as the rural way of life changes. Anyway, I’m going to put your phone number in my cell phone & see if I can come by at an opportune time.
P.S. Have you seen the movie “Sweet Land”? Oh my goodness. Granted, it’s set in Minnesota but it looked like Iowa to me . . . & oh so beautiful were the people & so poignant their experience.

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by John Arnold

John Arnold — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 20:35:06 +0000

A very special and magical Cat - wonderful library staff - a lovely Town - a really amazing and wonderful story of hope, adversity, love, intuition and caring - the best real life story in many many years and one I will never forget. Dewey lives on - immortalised in books, papers, films, videos and certainly in my mind.

John Arnold - Dartford - England

Comment on Iowa State Penitentiary - Fort Madison, Iowa by joyce donaldson

joyce donaldson — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 18:52:03 +0000

I think you should turn the old prison into a tour place when the new one is built it will help pay for the new one in the long run I would pay to take a tour of it after it is closed and the new one is built. I know of others who would also pay to take tours of it

Comment on Monroe County Historical Museum - Albia, Iowa by jim seibert

jim seibert — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 03:35:11 +0000

I have a picture of the members of the Albia Fire Department taken in front of the fire station on North main in 1942. It’s a picture of the fire truck with the ladders built above. The picture does not contain names of the members. Where would you suggest I go to locate these men’s names. Thank you.

Jim Seibert
Eagle Grove, IA. 50533

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by Philip Clock

Philip Clock — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 21:11:03 +0000

What a wonderful book!

Dewey Readmore Books captivated my 7th grade son, whom I thought was past bedtime stories but loves cats (we have 4, all rescued) and made Dewey the exception after I bought him the book for his birthday. He particularly likes Dewey’s many library poses pictured at the beginning of each chapter.

We’re almost finished, I’m hoping the Spencer Public Library will have a Dewey successor-in-training to follow.

Comment on Union County Historical Village And Museum - Creston, Iowa by Randy Worth

Randy Worth — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 05:14:46 +0000

In the 50’s and early 60’s, Iowa Souhtern Utilities had an office in Lorimor. The store front was eventually closed and then shared space in the Whitehead Home Appliance store owned by my Grand Father, Ted Whitehead. At some point, Iowa Southern closed this service as well but left their office desk in the store. When it was time to clear my grand parents home, I came to own the Iowa Southern office desk. It is a very large wooden desk and in very good condition, double pedistal with file drawer and locking center drawer. It also has a wooden change holder in the center drawer, used to make change when people paid their utility bills.

I am wondering if this would be a piece the museum would want? If so, I would be happy to donate it in memory of Ted and Mercedes Whitehead.

Comment on CHAPEL OF ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA - Festina, Iowa by Kerstin

Kerstin — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 02:23:17 +0000

My sister visited this very church with my neice never been there before when she visited the church my neice saw a lady there the lady had died a very long time ago She told my sister that the lady was about my sisters age when she died she died of bee stings and her name was vickie well my sister walked over by the gravestones and one of the stones said victoria If anyone knows the story of this women let me know.

Comment on Midwest Old Threshers Reunion - Mt. Pleasant, Iowa by John Marson

John Marson — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 06:20:01 +0000

One Of the best antique tractor shows i have ever been to.

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by brittani

brittani — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:43:34 +0000

i think that the book about dewey was a very good and that ppl should read it i recomend it it waz very good

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by Jerry Boroff

Jerry Boroff — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:44:30 +0000

My wife Claire and I love animals. We have a black female cat named Littlegirl. We feed and shelter numerous neighbourhood cats, some of whom are homeless and others who prefer not to be in their homes. Cats are special people and Dewey was obviously a very special individual. What is it about a deep mutual love relationship between a furry four-legged creature and a warm-hearted person that brings tears to our eyes? I was weeping even before I read the inevitable end. I think that we all seek a loving connection and when we learn of a situation where that kind of bond came to be; it touches us, gives us hope, enables us to let down our guard and allow our emotions to be set free.

Comment on Wapello County Historical Museum - Ottumwa, Iowa by Larry Roeder

Larry Roeder — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:43:34 +0000

Dear Sirs,

I’m the great, great, grand nephew of Paris Caldwell who arrived in Ottumwa May 1, 1843 and died 1899, and for whom Caldwell Park was named. Paris street was named after him, and Caldwell street after his family. Arrison Street was named after Newton L. Arrison, a son in law of Paris.

Though I am aware that Newton had something to do with the City park system, I’ve never been clear as to what,nor when the park was formed and when the streets got their names. Do you know if he also named Benton and Clay streets? Benton was a family name and Clay is the first name of a famous Iowan and relative, who rose to fame in the Civil War anemd Henry Clay Caldwell. Do you have early photographs of Caldwell Park and the environs?

You may be interested to know that Paris was born Parris, not Paris, though both spellings were used over time. I would be pleased to know if you ever have a history or pioneer day in Ottumwa and if Paris, who helped create the city and once owned most of west Ottumwa, is ever mentioned.

Larry Winter Roeder, Jr.

Comment on Moulton Historical Society - Moulton, Iowa by john dickinson

john dickinson — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 19:36:58 +0000

Two years ago i purchased Moulton’s Historical Book that was put out in 1976. I understand they put out a second addition in the 1990’s.
Would this edition be available?If so would you let me know?
Thank You, John Dickinson
234 River Rd.
Lynden,Wa 98264

Comment on Rand Park - Keokuk, Iowa by Editor

Editor — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 03:32:35 +0000

The dates for the lights are November 26 – December 25, 2009. There is no cost for the viewing. Enjoy!

Comment on Rand Park - Keokuk, Iowa by What cost is there to see th lights?

What cost is there to see th lights? — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:25:30 +0000

coming for the Christmas lights and want to have directions and cost if anyl Thakn you

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by Jane Feagan

Jane Feagan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:26:14 +0000

I was looking for a book in WH Smith as a present for my boyfriend on saturday and it was then, Dewey’s beautiful face stared up at me from his book, i picked it up and read the back cover, knowing then i had to buy it. I am half way through and have cried so much already of reading about the warmth between Dewey and VIcki and the other staff and the disabled girl visitor. I used to have a ginger cat called Felix and Dewey reminded me of him.

Cat’s and all animals are sensitive souls who we could learn so much from.

I hope others read the book soon…

Comment on Lone Tree Historical Museum - Lone Tree, Iowa by Sue and Gene Carl

Sue and Gene Carl — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:38:16 +0000

This museum is by far the best one we have ever visited. Not only is there a lot of valuable items displayed but the lady, Lillian Angerer, was very knowledgeable and very thoughtful to have us tour your museum. I only hope this museum continues forever.

We are sending a diary from Lone Tree dated 1903 thru 1946 written by Helen Carl (grandmother of Eugene Carl)

Again, thank you.

Sue and Eugene Carl

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by Liz Franzmann

Liz Franzmann — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:41:57 +0000

What an amazing and moving book: I lived it from the very first to the last page and of course , wept profusely at Dewey’s demise. I’m a cat lover & owner (picking up strays and waifs throughout my life) and can 100% identify with everything: the challenges, worry, trials, humour, finicky eating, comfort (how do they know when you are sad, ill or worried?) and of course, the final tears. I really felt as though it was one of my own beloved pets. They both got extra hugs and kisses and more bed space last night! I only wish I had met Dewey in his lifetime. Thank you

Comment on CHAPEL OF ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA - Festina, Iowa by Jerry Baker

Jerry Baker — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:43:36 +0000

It’s been around 40 years, since I visited that church in Festina. At that time, the store in Festina was run by a Mrs. Schneeberger, whose maiden name was Huber,

My great-great-grandfather Franz Leichtnam, a native of Olsberg, Lorraine, settled there in 1851, with his wife, Anna Maria née “Mueller,” and 3 sons, Michael, John and Casper. Olsberg, which also has a chapel of St. Anthony of Padua, is now in the French Département of Moselle.

Michael, my great-grandfather, was born at Zweibrucken, Germany, in 1833. His name, in the US was changed to “Leichtman.” He is buried in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, in New Hampton, where many of his descendants live.

Comment on Children’s Square USA - Christian Home Association - Council Bluffs, Iowa by Molly Defenbaugh

Molly Defenbaugh — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:09:02 +0000

My sister is a resident of Cotten Wood Cottage and will be probaly untill she reaches 18. I’ve seen major improvement in her every day. She has set back but yet she strives to become a better person. She always talks about Ms. Emily there and how wonderful she is. I’m so glad that you are takign the tiem to help her through her problems and helping her to become the wonderful person I know she it. Thank you all so very much for putting hope back into her heart and showing her that not everyone is against her. Thanks so Much.

Comment on Maharishi Vedic City Iowa by leeza degtoff

leeza degtoff — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:01:39 +0000

so glad to find your city. i saw story on TV while i was sleeping - surfing and
couldn’t get it out of my mind. didn’t know how to find out more and then thought
of Google - so glad to know you are near Fairfield in southeast Iowa.

Thank you Google and Maharishi Vedic City.

Comment on Albert City Historical Museum - Albert City, Iowa by Kristin Boughey

Kristin Boughey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:01:18 +0000

I would just like to say that this is a great place. My great Grandfather is Edward Sundholm. You might know my mother, Tamera Boughey. (sundholm). I hope buisness is going great and ill be down soon to visit.

Comment on Dow House Historic Site - Dow City, Iowa by Susan Crandall Braun

Susan Crandall Braun — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:35:35 +0000

My father, Richard Crandall, lived in the Dow House as a child with his 4 siblings and his mother and father, Eugene and Winnie Crandall. I’m wondering if there are pictures, brochures etc. showng the inside of the house. I understand that some of my grandfather’s things are on display there. I would like to know if there are any relatives of the Crandall family involved with the house now.

Comment on Dewey, the Rescued Library Cat - Spencer, Iowa by lucy stokes

lucy stokes — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:06:42 +0000

this is a very moving story about a cat who knew when to give his time and comfort to those who needed it most.

i’m reading it through now and find it very moving and reminds me of my cat who died 5 years ago, she was a grey tabby who gave me lots of laughs and comfort when i was feeling down.

Comment on Crapo Park - Burlington, Iowa by George Wesley Dixon

George Wesley Dixon — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 21:38:15 +0000

I remember picnics our family reunions at Crapo Park. I remember the slides, swings, the wooded maze, and the public swimming pool. I remember playing with my dad (Harold Dixon) in partnership some horseshoe competition. “What fun.”

Comment on LaQuinta Hotel, Des Moines Iowa by RIzal

RIzal — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 03:31:00 +0000

nice to stay……………

Comment on Francesca’s House - Winterset, Iowa by Chantal Prosperi Fongemie

Chantal Prosperi Fongemie — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:49:17 +0000

Why is there a pattern of landmark arson/destruction in Madison County? These beautiful bridges hold such history and importance to the landscape of the region. Your part of the world is so very unique and beautiful; I don’t understand why anyone would want these structures destroyed. Shame on the culprits responsible; you should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Comment on Terrible’s Lakeside Casino - Osceola, Iowa by Mary Fountain

Mary Fountain — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:49:55 +0000

I was at Terrible’s tonight. The food was great, the entertainment was great and we had a great time.

Comment on LOCKMASTER’S HOUSE HERITAGE MUSEUM - Guttenberg, Iowa by Gerri Gribi

Gerri Gribi — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:54:47 +0000

Re: Lockmaster’s House Heritage Museum in Guttenberg

There is a sign on the gate that says “Open noon - 4 May through October”

However, the brochure I picked up at the local visitor center says:
Daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Closed Mondays
-Weekends in September
-Daily during October leaf tour season

Anybody traveling specifically to see this should call first since nobody seems to know what the actual hours are.

Comment on Fontana Interpretive Nature Center - Hazelton, Iowa by greg

greg — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:30:51 +0000

i thought it was a life changing experiance very beneficial and the buffalo looked sexy

Comment on SURF BALLROOM - Clear Lake, Iowa by George

George — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 02:52:39 +0000

Even though I wasn’t even born yet when that fateful night happened, I was wondering why they took off in a blinding snowstorm?

Comment on Midwest Old Threshers Reunion - Mt. Pleasant, Iowa by G. Thompson

G. Thompson — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:07:00 +0000

I’ve been going to OT more years than I like to remember and while they always have great grandstand entertainment, this year was a major disappointment. We arrived early and got 2nd row center seats. However, people were allowed to stand from the stage to the seating and back up the aisles so no one could see anything. Also the sound level was extremely loud. Mel Tillis was perfect. He looked and acted very professional and the sound and group were very well behaved. The same could be said for Restless Heart and Collin Raye. However, there were the people once again in front of the stage for that concert. The sound was a bit high but tolerable. I can’t believe that the entertainers were so caught up in the people in front of the stage that they didn’t see people pouring out because of the sound level and the inconsideration of the crowd. I can’t believe that they would prefer to play to the 300 hundred or so rude people cramming the stage front rather than the vast crowd in the bleachers and seats.

Comment on The Little Brown Church in the Vale - Nashua, Iowa by Diane Icenbice

Diane Icenbice — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 21:56:03 +0000

Great story, my grandparents were married there September 16, 1929.

Comment on Midwest Old Threshers Reunion - Mt. Pleasant, Iowa by walter dunnett

walter dunnett — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 03:21:23 +0000

TO EVERYONE READ THIS. .VE BEEN GOING THERE FOR 25 YEARS.NEVER HAD A BAD TIME.THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO.. DID YOU KNOW HATS WHERE THEY BUILT MICHEAL JACKSON TRAIN FOR NEVER LAND AT,[MCRR]. YOU CAN RIDE TE TROLLIES ORTRAIN. THE STEAM TRAIN HAS A MOCKUP SHOT OUT WHERE THE KIDS GT ALL THE FONY DOLLAR BILLS. GRANPA BARN S WHERE YOU CAN TAKE THE KIDS TO SEE ND PET THE ANIMALS.EVERYONE HASA GARAGE SALE THEN TO. ALOT OF CRAFTER & ANTIQUES ARE FOR SALE EVERWHERE. A LOT DOWN HGWY 214 TOO.RODEVOUS TENT SELL WARES,FURS,JEWELRY. YOU CAN CAMP THERE , MOTELS FILL FAST. THERE ARE BED & BREAKFASTS[SOME] OR RENT A LAWN FROM A NEIGHBOR. THEREIS ALSO A TENT OR RESALE OF WHATEVER YOU WANT O SELL[ MOSTLY FARM STUFF]. LOTS OF GREAT COUNTRY SINGERS,AND YOU ARE CLOSE. BRING A CAMERA.AND A FRIEND…………

Comment on Black’s Gaslight Village - Iowa City, Iowa by Curt Morey

Curt Morey — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 21:26:38 +0000

I spent a lot of time at Black’s Gaslight from 1976 - 1980. I was a member of the Undergraduate Fiction Writer’s Workshop and had friends in the writing community who lived there, including good friend Scott Anderson, relative of Garrison Keillor. My brother lived with Scott and Wes Kooistra there for a few crazy years.

This was a really funky place and I’d love to visit again. Maybe sometime on my way back from my home in Racine, WI to my parent’s home in Leon, Iowa I’ll drop by.

I also heard that my old fraternity, Kappa Sigma, had been shut down, which doesn’t surprise me. We had a very enterprising group of guys who operated “under the radar”, most of the time!

Comment on Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial, “Black Angel” - Council Bluffs, Iowa by Anna McKay

Anna McKay — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:45:51 +0000

I had the pleasure of seeing the Black angel while in Counsil Bluffs for my brother’s wedding it is beautiful!

Comment on Meskwaki Indian Pow Wow - Tama, Iowa by cory tomlinson

cory tomlinson — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:03:31 +0000

im sac, fox indian but do 2 my fathers job i live in alabama, my mother (christina tomlinson) is the grand daughter of (dave chase) im very proud of my great grandfather he was a great man he lived by the indian way, but i live in alabama so im not around my people, is ther any way i can conect with my people, feel free 2 message me at myspace or email -im ‘reuzake1@yahoo.com’ on both