Starting to see Iowa ...

While staying in Iowa awaiting my coach, I took the opportunity to see some of the state.  This is where I went and some of what I saw ....

Story City, Iowa -

- is home to a 1913 Herschell-Spillman antique carousel. The carousel consists of hand carved wooden animals and 1936 Wurlitzer Military Band organ music.



Ames, Iowa -

- Constructed in 2003 by Clarence Martin, this giant 41-foot pitchfork is claimed to be the world's largest. Even if it proves not to be, it's still an impressive sight and quite colorful as well.

- Built in 1897, the Marston Water Tower holds the distinction of being the first steel water tower west of the Mississippi River. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the water tower is notable for being designed by the Anson Marston, the first dean of the College of Engineering at Iowa State University where the tower stands. Compared to other water towers, the Marston Water Tower is quite unusual as its supporting legs bow outwards.

- Reiman Gardens is one of the largest public gardens in Iowa. It is home to the world’s largest concrete gnome, which stands 15 feet tall and weighs around 3,500 pounds. Reiman Gardens also consists of the Christian Reiman Butterfly Wing, a conservatory, Dunlap Courtyard, Hillside Garden, Joey and Jesse’s Herb Garden, Lake Helen, Margaret E. Penkhus Campanile Garden, the Missing Buck Roses, the Patty Jischke Children’s Garden, Rose Gardens, South Field, Stafford Garden, and Town and Country Garden.

Kelley, Iowa -

- For whatever reason, the town of Kelley has managed to turn this phone booth (a sole survivor) into a local landmark. The phone booth, which still functions at a cost of 25 cents, is now a popular place to take photographs and even has its own Facebook page. It is reportedly one of the most popular sites in the entire town.

 

Boone, Iowa -

- The Kate Shelley High Bridge is the world’s longest, highest double-track railroad bridge. Standing 2,685 feet across and nearly 190 feet above the Des Moines River, the bridge was designed by George S. Morrison for the Chicago and North Western Railway.



Ogen, Iowa -

- Boasting some noticeable flair, Ogden's water tower stands over the town like a blue-striped peppermint candy.