Ames in Story County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
First Land-Grant
Iowa State University
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 17, 2025
1. First Land-Grant Marker
Iowa started an education revolution as the first state to accept the 1862 Morrill Act terms. The act allowed Iowa to sell federal land to finance a new college open at all regardless of wealth, race or gender; offering a practical education in agriculture, engineering and military science as well as classical studies; and sharing research knowledge with all Iowans. Iowa State University officially opened in 1869 and was the first coeducational land-grant school.
Erected by Iowa State University.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Education. A significant historical year for this entry is 1862.
Location. 42° 1.597′ N, 93° 38.887′ W. Marker is in Ames, Iowa, in Story County. It is on Morrill Road north of Union Drive, on the right when traveling south. Marker is near Beardshear Hall, on the campus of Iowa State University. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 531 Morrill Rd, Ames IA 50011, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Greater Des Moines. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Jack Trice (within shouting distance of this marker); Campaniling (about 700 feet away, measured in a direct line); First Water Tower (about 700 feet away); A Faster Fax (approx. 0.2 miles away); World's Hardiest Roses (approx. 0.2 miles away); Sloss House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Birthplace of the Computer (approx. 0.2 miles away); First Statistical Laboratory (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Ames.
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 17, 2025
2. First Land-Grant Marker
Marker is next to Beardshear Hall on the campus of Iowa state University.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 24, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 24, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois. This page has been viewed 338 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 24, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.
