It Inspired the Americans Gothic Drawing. amethyst, and Bethlehem Cave contains 65 tons of petrified wood. 43. As the record of 2013, the state contains around 21.2 million hogs while there are 4.2 million people lives in the state. People have also heard voices which many believe belong to the children killed in the home. Back in the late 1800s, Iowa had one asylum, Mount Pleasant State Hospital. That's why we started Creepy Catalog in 2015 as a place for creepy content and creepy people to congregate.. Every Friday, we send out an email with the scariest horror movies and TV shows streaming that weekend along with creepy news, updates from the horror movie pipeline, and links to the best scary content on the . But, for people who dont already live here (and know how awesome Iowa is), here are a few interesting facts that may just make you want to move: There is just no place like Iowa. They never solved the mystery and maybe thats why its. In 1995, 3 Iowa musicians, Shawn Crahan, Joey Jordison, and Paul Gray formed the band Slipknot. The longest, largest and oldest recreational bicycle touring event in the world is held here annually since 1973. Iowa's not the first state that comes to mind when people think of bats, but surprisingly the state has a healthy bat population. He stands in a garden 15 feet tall from his boots to his telltales pointy hat and weighs at least 3500 pounds. From agriculture and tourism to sports and entertainment, theres plenty to see and do in this great state. 1. Most known for cornfields and the famous Iowa State Fair, people are often surprised that there is much more to Iowa than meets the eye. Others have seen unusual green lights as well as bloodstains vanishing from the walls. Known as 'Frank', the poltergeist frequently slams doors and turns on lights after the place has been closed up for the night. Learn more on the haunted Villisca Ax Murder House, Villisca, Iowa. 5. 42. Students at the University claim to have seen Shattucks wheelchair move on its own as well as hearing disembodied voices. An educational powerhouse, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium hosts dozens of exhibits relating to history, culture, and science. Iowa in red, Map of the USA. Here are two scary facts about Iowa if you are into horror stories and legends. According to the statistics, they say the state produces even more corn than some countries, like Mexico. The Nobel Peace Prize was won by John Mott of Iowa in 1946 for his work with the international YMCA. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Get more stories delivered right to your email. It sits on a crystal lake which has several hundred real bullhead fish at the bottom. The Devil's Chair has no markings, and sits between the Peterson and Miller graves. Here are 15 things you probably didnt know about the Hawkeye State. Iowa has over 50 varieties of wild mushrooms that spawn from spring to fall. Car accidents have been caused by apparitions standing in the middle of the road. Iowa is nicknamed the Hawkeye State, after Hawk-eye, the scout in the 1826 novel. Des Moines serves as the state capital and the largest city in Iowa. A memorial to Sgt. She was supposedly going to meet the man of her dreams outside of town to elope. People who have worked at Independence State Mental Hospital have claimed there are certain parts of the institution that they simply will not enter due to reports of paranormal activity. Its the largest cave in Iowa. Iowa: Villisca Axe Murder House. Iowa beats all the United States in corn production. In addition, ACT and SAT average scores in Iowa are typically high. The University of Iowa was founded in 1847 and is the oldest university in the state. People have reported apparitions, photo anomalies and other strange phenomena here. With an abundance of wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, Iowa's wine tourism scene has grown considerably. A local Franciscan convent was the setting for the ceremony; the target was the demons inhabiting Emma Schmidt. The abbreviation for Iowa is IA. They are recreational centers since they are ice skating spots in winter and fishing and boat-riding venues in summer. Ashton Kutcherwas born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. If you want to visit someplace that is haunted that offers you more of a chuckle and a smile than fear, the Rainbow Bridge in Lake City, Iowa is the spot for you. The mystery of the Van Meter Monster will haunt your dreams. Iowa (nicknamed: Hawkeye State) has 99 counties. According to the owner, the spirits that reside there are previous owners of the house, civil war soldiers, and tuberculosis patients who all died on-site. The hall is a tribute to graduate soldiers who died at war. 4. Tara, or Terror, Bridge has a history that dates back to the 1800s. 15) Dolphins can be sexually aggressive and have been known to go after humans. Rainbow Bridge in Lake City, Iowa. 31st president of USA was born and brought up in Iowa, Herbert Clark Hoover was president of the united states from 1929 to 1933 and was born in Iowa. Individuals from the United States and several other countries and continents participate. Iowa is also sometimes called the Corn State or the Tall Corn State/Land Where the Tall Corn Grows because it produces more corn than any other state. It measures approximately sixteen miles and has only one underwater entrance at the base of its 100-foot cliff. The mounds are now a National Historic Site and are considered sacred to Native Americans. The road is now considered a historic marvel and one of many weird Iowa facts. 5 - Rainbow Bridge, Lake City. Although most well-known for corn, Iowa is also a major producer of soybeans and oats. The first woman elected to the House of Iowa legislature was Carolyn Pendray in 1928. The contents of the candy bar will be gone, but the wrapper will still be completely intact and unopened. Legend claims that if you go to where Lucinda jumped to her death at the bluffs at night and utter her name three times, she may appear. Iowa is considered the most Midwestern state in the U.S. and offers plenty of historical and cultural experiences. It serves as not only a place for drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, but it is also a psychiatric hospital and a training school for those wanting to become nurses. The first bread slicing machine was invented in Iowa by Otto Frederick Rohwedder. Corn production provides income for Iowas economy. Astronaut footprints on the moon can last . Due to its fascinating topography, Iowa is the land of rolling hills. People claim this bridge is haunted by a ghost. A group of young Dakota men, half-starved to death, killed a family of white settlers while out on a hunting trip. The innovative creations are displayed at Matchstick Marvels Museum. Twelve years after the book was first published, a local court and publisher succeeded in having the nickname formally recognized. Some say Lottie haunts the cemetery and that a curse will befall those who visit her gravesite. According to Trulia.com, the average listing price for a single-family home in Iowa is $174,101, higher only than the average listing price in Ohio. Its six bordering states are Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Tell us about it in the comments. The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa is known for groundbreaking cancer research and treatment. The first Iowan to be elected to the office of the Vice President of the US was Henry Agard Wallace in 1940. This Maid-Rite is now, mysteriously, closed. Okay, it MAY be a secret or at least just not as well known as we would like it to be, since Iowa is one of the most underrated states in the country. 35. A woman named Lucinda committed suicide and is reported to linger on Stony Hollow Road. Iowa is a place of museums and aquariums. Be the first to know when we release new events, special offers, and discounts! People have also claimed to see the ghosts of former staff members and patients. 6. Thank you! Iowa is home to the famous investor, model, and actor who has been in countless romantic comedies. Effigy Mounds, large scale Native American sculptures of animals, humans, and religious figures made out of piles of earth, date as far back as 350 CE. Iowa was an important location in the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804. In her spare time, she enjoys reading a good book, or just binge watching Netflix. I do my best to verify the accuracy of all content published here. See all Facts . When. 4. [13], 12. It is one of 27 US states that are landlocked. Developed by Engineering Professor Partha Sarkar, the simulator helps scientists study the effects of tornadoes for better planning on communities they threaten. Early on in the mental hospitals history patients were subjected to some rather unpleasant treatments. Upon closer inspection, it wasn't a. Since 1973, this location has hosted the worlds longest, biggest, and oldest recreational bicycle touring event. Iowa, also known as the Hawkeye State, became the nation's 29th state in 1846. In its 100 year history, the theatre has been home to an unknown number of actors and performers. With all these interesting facts about Iowa, it's hard not to develop a newfound appreciation for the state. The 1930s crime spree brought about by Bonnie and Clyde once came through Iowa. Terms of Service apply. The 16-foot wooden nickel, protesting a county road paving proposition, sits off Iowa Interstate 80 and has become a popular tourist stop. DES MOINES, Iowa . [3], A 25-mile trail bridge winds across five of Iowa towns. According to legend, the woman took her kids to the bridge to see the train. They contain all the history and present facts of Iowa. Our cost of living is much lower than average. Iowa is the 31st most populous and the 26th most extensive of the 50 states of the United States. In the futuristic series, Star Trek, Captain James T. Kirk was portrayed as being born in Riverside, Iowa in 2223. Only 9% of Iowa's 1,648 concentrated animal feeding operations have the necessary permits to protect our waterways from the excess nutrients, pathogens . There was a trial for George Kelly, a traveling preacher, but he was found innocent of committing the crime. In its new, frightening fact sheet, Environment Iowa found that: 1. Another official was sent to resurvey, but his line was a bit north of the original line, to the tune of 2,600 acres. Well, Halloween is right around the corner and its time to put all of those amazing Iowa locations in one place. Its not edible but is a perfect strawberry marketing strategy.[17]. 9. High school dropouts are 8 times more . His birthplace home is now a historic landmark that fans visit. Since 1971, educational spending in the U.S. has grown from $4,300 to $9,000 per student. Movoto With a low overall crime rate and the second lowest murder rate in the country, Iowa is the sixth safest place to live, according to Movoto.com. Destguides Ltd is registered in England. She was one of the ghostwriters that published as Carolyn Keene.. 1. That facility was meant to house drug addicts, alcoholics, the mentally ill, the elderly, and the criminally insane. CATEGORY 3 - FACT 2. Its the only island town here. were sorely mistaken as 3 inches of ice downed power lines and poles and left at least 100,000 people in Minnesota and Iowa without power . [4], 31. From their technological, medical, and environmental advancements, Iowa is leading the way in many fields and has a bright future. This gift store is housed in a historic building, which has a darker history in relation to the murder of a woman that occurred in the building many years before. Nissen was a gymnast and later part of a traveling acrobatics act which is how he introduced his invention to the world. The famous investor, model, and actor featuring in several romantic movies and comedies was born and brought up in Iowa. Over 30 million acres of farmland can be found throughout the state. It was admitted to the union as the 29th state on December 28, 1846. Corn, and in fact, several agricultural productions are some of the many things Iowa is known for. These non-winged sprint cars were used in the 30s and 40s. However,Iowaleads the nation in per-capitawind powercapacitywith2,324 MW/million people. Although they look similar, 3 distinct rose species make up what is considered Iowa's state flower, the Rosa arkansana, Rosa blanda, and Rosa carolina. [7], 27. In addition to education initiatives, the museum advocates for conservation and works with local organizations on research and restorative projects. It is said that these sensations strengthen the closer one gets to a certain grave, one that has a headstone carved from part of a tree. According to reports, a strange low moan can be heard constantly here. Arabella Mansfield of Iowa became the first female lawyer in the history of the US. It was then a home for people who struggled with mental health issues. 10. Bob Feller, originally from a farm in Iowa, rose to fame as a member of the Cleveland Indians during baseballs Golden Age. 2023 TheFactFile.Org. They worked on the computer from 1937 to 1942 at the University of Iowa. Iowas state motto is Our liberties we prize and our rights we maintain. She later went on to become an educator and activist in the women's suffrage movement. It was a long time ago, but this bone-chilling story of multiple murders remains alive. According to the WHO (World Health Organization) and recent studies, the average person will shed roughly 112 pounds of skin in their lifetime. It is the only state abbreviation made up of 2 vowels. People visit the Dribble House in costume to take photos, intimating the famous painting. One of the highest concentrations of caves in an area of Iowa is within Maquoketa Caves State Park. Mirrored after similar festivals in Holland, the Orange City Tulip Festival showcases colorful tulips in parades and floral shows. Featuring live demonstrations of farm life from the 1700s to the 1900s, Living History Farms is a major educational attraction just outside of Des Moines. Once statehood was achieved, Iowans began setting up the system of farmlands that continued to grow through the next century and into modern-day Iowa. Wild roses are native to Iowa and can be found growing in the many meadows and prairies throughout the state. The name Iowa comes from its indigenous Native American tribe, the Ioway Indians, who lived along the Mississippi River. Besides corn, Iowa is the top pork producer in the US and is one of the top producers of beef, soybeans, and grains. She was born in Wisconsin, but only lived there for a few weeks before her parents realized how much better Iowa was and moved. There are 5 areas in Iowa that have been preserved as part of the Underground Railroad. Iowa State University was first founded back in 1858 under the name Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. Iowa farms produce over 2 billion bushels of corn per year. 1 - Independence State Mental Hospital, Independence. Visitors to the site have reported strange activity that has led some to believe it's haunted. In fact, even if you went through the effort of shaving, if the kiss lasts longer than five minutes, youd also be breaking the law. Head swim coach Dave Armbruster came up with the butterfly stroke technique in 1935. Since then, the house has been the source of odd paranormal activity, such as a ghost hunter stabbing himself in the chest in 2014. Based on real events, this 1912 cold case features a whole family (two parents, four children, and two house guests) being bludgeoned to death in their sleep. Southeast Iowa is a hub for transcendental meditation, One of Iowas golden domes is used for meditation and masse. Sioux City is also home to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, offering information on Iowa history. People often refer to it as the Island City. There is only one town island in Iowa, Sabula town in Jackson County, Iowa, is located on an island in Mississippi river. One popular story states a young man went insane and was eventually found dead after trying to remove one of the angels hands. The ghost of a child named Sara resides at this cemetery. illusion-X / Pixabay. The ball has a circumference of just over 24 feet. The statue sits in the Council Bluffs Cemetery. Claims have been made that if you drive on the bridge do not stop and make sure all of your doors and windows are closed and locked. They have some of the best soil in the US. 2. 1. You will uncover many more fun facts about Iowa on your trip! Over 20 modern-day tribal nations across the Midwest have cultural associations with the Effigy Mounds. Portrait of Iowa tribal man A surveying mistake almost caused a war between Iowa and Missouri in the 1830s. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission for qualifying purchases made through these links, but at no extra cost to you. Some say is it the voice of the only woman who ever graduated from the school who died in World War I. Iowa was admitted to the union as the 29th state on Dec. 28, 1846. The elusive puffball and morel mushrooms are among the most sought-after by local foragers and chefs. When it comes to womens rights, Iowa has always been way ahead of the curve. Once completed, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, known as ABC, was a far cry from the computers of today at 750 pounds. Some people have claimed to have been pulled or pushed by hands that are not there. The largest man-made Grotto in the world, the Grotto contains the largest collection of precious stones and gems found anywhere in one location! He later moved to Los Angeles and won his title role as Frodo Baggins in "Lord of the Rings," launching his now-famous career. Scary Facts About Our World That You Probably Didn't Want To Know pt.10 #scary #creepy #scaryfacts #real #sincerelywill ig:@sincerelywill_ ebrahim_ka. People have witnessed what appeared to be the ghosts of vaudeville performers on the stage. Speaking of which, theres a Pikes Peak in Iowa, too. 3. The largest section is the Sioux City and is in Iowa. Another ghost at ISU is Hortense Elizabeth Wind. You probably never seen a wooden nickel, but here in Iowa, on a farm, is a 12-inch worlds largest wooden Nickel.[9]. By entering your email address you agree to our, 60 Interesting & Fun Facts About Iowa State You Need to Know, Iowa has over 30 million acres of farmland, The Iowa State Fair attracts over a million visitors a year, Inventor Otto Frederick Rohwedder was from Iowa, The Iowa State Bird and Flower is the Goldfinch and Wild Rose, Iowa hosts the longest recreational bicycle event in the world, Beneath all the cornfields of Iowa lies hundreds of prehistoric caves, The world's first electronic digital computer was built in Iowa, Iowa is a major hub of insurance and financial institutions, Iowa had the first public veterinary school in the United States, The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium resides in Iowa, Famous author Mildred Wirt Benson was from Iowa, The canine kennel cough vaccine was developed in Iowa, President Herbert Hoover was born in Iowa, Drones are being used to fight food waste in Iowa, The Black Angel Monument in Iowa is believed to be haunted, Iowa's Mason House Inn is a "Ghost Hunting" site, Stony Hollow Road is among the "most haunted places" in Iowa, Creepy cult classic "Children of the Corn" was filmed in Iowa, Iowa State University is the state's largest research university, Iowa has served as a filming location for some of Hollywood's biggest hits, The heavy metal band Slipknot came from Iowa, Famous television host Johnny Carson was from Iowa, Iowa's State Flower, the Wild Rose, is actually 3 different flowers, Iowa is the proclaimed future birthplace of Star Trek's Captain Kirk, Iowa is a wild mushroom hunter's paradise, Iowa has one of the most crooked streets in the world, Iowa has the world's largest wooden nickel, Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood is from Iowa, The Iowa State Capitol is the only State Capitol with 5 domes, Infamous criminal duo Bonnie and Clyde once had a shootout in Iowa, Iowa's name comes from the Native American Tribe Iowa, Iowa was the 29th state inducted into the union of the United States, There are historical sites from the Underground Railroad in Iowa, Iowa's Effigy Mounds National Monument has ancient Native American Burial Mounds, Iowa was a historical stop on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Iowa is home to the largest non-governmental seed bank in the United States, The University of Iowa holds important clinical trials in the fight against cancer, Iowa inducted the first female lawyer in the United States, Iowa has some of the best soil in the country, invented the automatic bread-slicing machine, Wild Rose was designated as the state flower, American Goldfinch was declared the state bird of Iowa, RAGBRAI, is an 8-day group bike ride across the state, 358,000 tourists visit Iowa's wine country, real-life backdrop for the famous American Gothic painting, Tulip Festival to pay homage to the early Dutch settlers, built the first electronic digital computer, There are thousands of insurance and finance companies headquartered in Iowa, first public veterinary school in America, one of the largest concentrations of veterinary professionals, over half of the state's electricity comes from wind generation, Dr. William Switzer created the first kennel cough vaccine, spanning several decades, and he became both an icon and controversial figure, flying drones over fields after harvest to ensure no crop is left behind, Black Angel was created as a representation of a dream had by Ruth Dodge, birthplace home is now a historic landmark, hosted one of the longest-running television shows, Iowa Organic Association is leading the way, officially designated as the state flower in 1897, Iowa has over 50 varieties of wild mushrooms, one of the most crooked streets in the world, giant sloths roamed the wildlands of present-day Iowa state, Elijah Wood was born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, established in 1858 as an agricultural college, the University of Northern Iowa was founded in 1876, Iowa was officially signed into the union, believed to have been constructed during a prehistoric period, cultural associations with the Effigy Mounds, Sergeant Charles Floyd died during the expedition, home to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, groundbreaking cancer research and treatment, Arabella Mansfield became the first female lawyer, leading the way in tornado research with its tornado simulator, 30 Fun Things to Do in Memphis for Couples, 35 Cincinnati Date Ideas That Will Impress Your Partner, 35 Omaha Date Ideas to Wow Your Other Half, Best Time to Visit San Francisco, California, 16 Landmarks in Oahu, Hawaii You Must Visit, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Tennessee State to Discover, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Florida State You Should Know, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About South Carolina State to Know, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Ohio State to Know, 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Maine State to Know. After being empty for quite some time the house was purchased and the doors were opened to people interested in seeing the famous home where the murders took place. A type of prairie rose with bright pink petals, they can be spotted in the meadows and wildlands around Iowa. EXTREMELY Unsettling Facts Pt. The chandelier at the entrance also moves of Reports say visitors to the theater get the feeling of being watched, and have seen a ghostly little girl. There are several about an evil doctor who appears as a ghost-devil, and some about Hell Road, a nearby path where animal sacrifices were allegedly performed. This hike through Gitchie Manitou State Preserve will have you running down the trail. The Wild Rose was designated as the state flower in 1897. People claim this bridge is haunted by a ghost. CTRL + SPACE for auto-complete. After receiving high scores on her bar exam and challenging the state's law restricting females from legal practice, Mansfield won her case and made history. Iowas people are the best golf players. Interesting Facts About Iowa For Travelers, 25 Things Las Vegas Is Famous And Known For, 33 Things Los Angeles Is Known And Famous For, 15 Best Beaches In Calgary, Alberta To Visit, 15 Best Beaches In Washington State, WA To Visit, 35 Things South Korea Is Famous And Known For, 27 Interesting And Fun Facts About Tunisia [Explained], Population: 3.2 Million (31st Populous State in the U.S), Land Area: 58,272 sq mi / 145,746 km (26th Largest in U.S), Statehood: December 28, 1846 (29th U.S State). His prototype was built in his parent's garage. Most of these places arent well publicized. 29. There is much happening in Iowa to learn about. If you do not abide by this warning the ghost of the mother will throw you to your death. It has a population of 6,732,219 people, making it the 17 th most populous state. Known for its golden domes and Renaissance Revival architecture, the Iowa State Capitol is one of a kind. The surveyors state boundary line slanted four miles further north on the east side than the west because he forgot to adjust his compass. Featuring a rich history and culture, there are many fun facts about Iowa that make the region a worthwhile visit. With these facts about Iowa, let us learn more about its history, people, geography, economy, culture, nature and wildlife and much more. Several murders have taken place on the premises. More than 1,070 are . Tornado Alley refers to a cluster of midwestern plains states that tend to get the most frequent and destructive types of tornadoes. Built in 1846, the Mason House Inn is a historic site in southeast Iowa known as a prime "Ghost Hunting" site. In 2014, the Today Show named Des Moines the wealthiest city, and it's known as a fast-growing hub, full of a unique culture that's all its own. Iowa is no stranger to weird laws. John Wayne was the son of a pharmacist and grew up to become one of Hollywoods most famous movie stars. List of Iowa facts cannot be complete without mentioning this fact. Henry Wallace, who was the 33rd vice president, was also born in Iowa. While sleeping in their beds the Moore family, Josiah and Sarah Moore, their children Herman, Katherine, Boyd, and Paul, as well as Lena and Ina Stillinger, friends of the children, were murdered. Its spooky, creepy, and terrifying. trip to this haunted restaurant in Cascade. Despite 92% of the state being farmland, most of the residents live in urban areas rather than in rural ones. The first commercial pre-sliced bread, the famous Wonder Bread, appeared on store shelves. The universe is completely silent. Three States in One City: Sioux City Iowa may feel a little strange if you are visiting for the first time. He developed strains of wheat that were disease-resistant. Legend has Staff at the theatre maintain that it is haunted by previous owner Mr. Goldie. Sarah/Flickr Our cost of living is much lower than average. This Enchanting And Historic Town In Iowa Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination, Bring Your Appetite To This Iowa Brewpub That Serves Up Over-The-Top BBQ Feasts, The Apple Festival At The Amana Colonies In Iowa Where Youll Have Loads Of Delicious Fun, The English Breakfast At This British-Themed Brunch Spot In Iowa Will Transport Your Taste Buds Across The Pond, 10 Reasons Why Living In Iowa Is The Best And Everyone Should Move Here, 11 Things You Can Only Brag About If Youre From Iowa, 13 Reasons Why People In Iowa Should Be Proud Of Their State, 11 Things Every Iowan Wants The Rest Of The Country To Know. Its the oldest water tower in Iowa and one of the top ten oldest water towers in the united states. [16], 8. 12. Iowa is a state that is very important to the U.S. because of its agricultural output. Published June 30, 2021. Iowa and Missouri were at odds with one another for a few years because of an inaccurate survey. Since 1854, the annual Iowa State Fair has been a major attraction in the state. The Christmas Chapel contains a 300-lb. She is also known to touch people and tug at clothing if her Cemeteries near Spencer, IA In 1928 Hoover was elected as the 31st President of The United States, serving from 1929 to 1933. Its a religious shrine in West Bend Iowa. A marker now covers the field where the shooting took place. This sacred site was constructed over a 42-year period, beginning in 1912, using semiprecious stones from every state in the U.S. and every world region. Sabula is just one mile long and a quarter of a mile wide, with a mere 576 residents. He later attended Stanford University and became a mining engineer. Grant was known for his paintings of rural Midwest landscapes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome To NomadsUnveiledThis is Rax. Iowa native, Otto Frederick Rohwedder, invented the Bread-Slicing Machine. In 1682, they claimed the region for France. One of the few athletes to compete in both the summer and winter Olympics is hurdler and bobsledder Lolo Jones of Des Moines, Iowa. It's such a breath-taking view for you and your family. An archaeological dig later revealed much of the entire skeleton. Hollywood headliners, Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep filmed their famous love story, "Bridges of Madison County" on location in Madison County, Iowa. His birthplace home is now a museum. Its no secret that Iowa is the best place to live. We have been there several times and have got many voices and apparitions. An initial surveyor drew a boundary four miles more north on the eastern side than the western side; a second officer was dispatched to redo the survey, but his line was still off by almost 2,600 acres. Drivers along the road have reported sightings of Lucinda over the years. Her spirit has haunted both the Shattuck Theater and then the newly built Fisher Theater. Replicas of original structures and machinery are also displayed. The people of Iowa love to play golf. 33. Officially nicknamed "The Hoosier State" and sometimes called "The Mother of Vice Presidents," Indiana was the 19 th state to join the United States of America on December 11, 1816.