The Pioneer Spirit

The Pioneer Spirit. . , The Midwest was once a vast sea of tallgrass prairie, which grew to heights over 9 feet. When Iowa became a state in 1846, the same rich soil and ample rainfall that supported prairie grasses drew eager settlers to the region. , Northwest Iowa’s early settlers came mostly from the eastern United States, in search of land and opportunity. Their first homes typically were small, one-room cabins constructed from plentiful native hardwoods. This cabin was built in 1861 by the George Peck family approximately two miles north of La Porte City. Seven family members lived in the cabin. The challenges and hardships that pioneer families endured shaped Iowa's culture of hard work, faith and family bonds., Mission Statement , Our mission is to encourage an appreciation and interest in the history, art, and culture of our community and state.