From day one of statehood in 1846, there were those who wanted to see Iowa’s capital moved westward. In 1847, a new location was suggested – picking “a beautiful prairie” site in Jasper County and naming it Monroe City. The idea was pursued, lots surveyed and sold, but, alas, in 1849, the idea was overruled. Several more unsuccessful attempts were made throughout the 1850’s, but finally, in 1857, a new deal was cut. The capitol would move westward to Des Moines, and in return, Iowa City would get the complete workings of the State University (SUI), which at that time was scattered across multiple campuses throughout Iowa. Just as The Big Move to Des Moines was being planned (fall of 1857), The Great Financial Panic hit, closing banks and disrupting business across the entire country! It was in this radically-challenging environment, when Iowa City found herself at the biggest crossroads since her creation in 1839. Over the next decade – which included The Civil War, Iowa City would either completely transform herself, or most likely, die from attrition.
CHECK OUT THE COMPLETE BLOG SERIES – Iowa City’s Top 50 Influencers – Part II
Back in 1979 – The Iowa City Press Citizen ran a special seven-page section called Chronology 1841/1979 and it featured Iowa City’s famed historian – Irving Weber – and his look at 25 People Who Left Their Stamp On Iowa City. So, here we are – forty-four years later – and now, I’m offering these two posts – dedicated to those who have greatly influenced our city over the first 100 years or so. This page features the First 25, and as you can see, each of the 25 names has a brief overview with a link(s) to read more, if you like. Enjoy!
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