Union Veterans Remembered in Granite

A common feature in the Midwest's older cemeteries are veteran monuments. Civil War era monuments in this area of 42N country celebrate veterans of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR.) This particular monument at Quasqueton, Iowa's Greenwood Cemetery is made of gray granite sections. Detailed carvings on the monument's sides depict four areas of warfare known at the time: infantry, cavalry, artillery, and naval. Close inspection of the nearly 100 year old monument reveals very little wear from freeze/thaw, rain, sun and organic lichens. This particular monument design is duplicated in nearby Manchester which also features two actual mortars from the era placed on the ground. Know that.

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Almost Aced By the Spear of Destiny

A few weeks ago while attempting to compose better photos I backed into what I thought was a solid wall. Turns out the wall was made up of these spear-like spikes of various heights. As I regained my balance I pressed against the spikes and turned around to see what had happened. There staring at me were these spear points (see top photo.) I, of course, instantly thought of the story of the Roman Centurion whose lance was known as the Spear of Destiny. In this case no damage was done and I was able to get the shots before rain fell. But for an instant the spear fence almost became my destiny. Know that.

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French King - A Drink of the River

Running eastward through 42N country is the Iowa River. In Coralville the impounded river forms the Coralville Reservoir. Upstream from the pool of the lake is the natural course of the Iowa as seen here. The river traverses farmland and urban centers alike. Today cities draw and purify water from the river for drinking and discharge.

A world away and 900 years ago during the Battle of Gisors French King Philip Augustus lost his footing on a bridge and drank of the river. While French rivers have appealing names, our local Iowa River may be comparable. Then again, at one time, the Iowa River was a French possession. President Thomas Jefferson authorized the acquisition of these lands from the French for $15 million. The transaction is known today as the Louisiana Purchase. Know that.

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Delta Formation in Oskaloosa

Back on November 7th these Canada geese swimming at an Oskaloosa, Iowa city park were intent on determining why they were being photographed by the 42N team. At first the much larger flock sailed away from us beyond reasonable photo range. However this brave bunch came back for a closer look. Perhaps they thought we had food for them. Not today. Know that.

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Veterans Day 2010 Plus Three

Along the Mississippi River at 42N country's Clinton, Iowa is this WWI-related statue dedicated to the area's veterans. While Veterans Day was observed just three days ago, a few signs of the ceremony held on this site remained, like a few small flags. Located atop the river's flood dike, this veterans display recognized area individuals including a Medal of Honor hero, William B. Mayes, (11th Iowa Infantry, Civil War) and those who serve the country today. Know that.

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Extra Texture

A bit of texture can be found in 42N country along the Iowa River in northern Johnson County, Iowa. Here where the Coralville Reservoir pool becomes the Iowa River (up stream from the dam) you can find many examples of seasonal or transitional textures.

This area often floods and is covered by a thick deposit of mud. For the past two months we have received little rain leaving these flats dry and cracked. However don't be fooled, and step lively. These seemingly dried mud regions still hold more than adequate moisture below, in fact there is enough sogginess to send a weighted shoe into condition unacceptable. Now You know that is the answer at the end. Know that.

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Veterans Day 2010

Thank you to all those who currently serve in the armed forces of the United States. And on this Veterans Day thank you to all who served this country from Revolutionary times to present. Our freedom and liberty that we prize today is made possible from your service. Know that.

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