Historical Note:

Iowa and Missouri abuzz over Honey War . . .

Van Buren County -- In December 1839 a border dispute broke out between the Iowa territory and the state of Missouri. Residents of this Iowa county arrested a Missouri tax collector; Missouri militia retaliated by chopping down three prized "bee trees." The so-called "Honey War" was finally settled by the Supreme Court, finding in Iowa's favor.

Name Origin: Indian. ("Beautiful Land")

Capital: Des Moines

Population: 2,829,000

Area: 56,275 square miles

Statehood: December 28, 1846 (29th)

Nickname: The Hawkeye State

Motto: "Our liberties we prize and our rights we shall maintain."

Famous For: Exceptionally Rich Soil, Corn, Soy, Alfalfa, Hog Farming, Food Processing, Tulip Festival, Wildlife