New Book Explores the History of Anamosa

MT. PLEASANT, S.C. - June 18, 2013 - PRLog -- The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s Images of America series is Anamosa by local author Becky DirksHaugsted. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.

Anamosa is in the heart of Jones County along the Wapsipinicon River. Initially named Buffalo Forks in 1838, the town was platted as Dartmouth and incorporated as Lexington. In 1842, a Native American girl named Anamosa passed through with her family and endeared herself to those who met her. At Edmund Booth's suggestion, the town's name was changed to Anamosa in 1851.

Grant Wood was born just east of Anamosa and is laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery. He is best known for his painting American Gothic; the dour woman and somber man who is holding a pitchfork. This painting is an iconic image of the 20th century. Anamosa is now a thriving community and was named the "Pumpkin Capital of Iowa" in 1993. It is also the only "Anamosa" in the world.

Highlights of Anamosa include:
•   Images of the Wapsipinicon River, known as the “Wapsi” which flows along the south edge of Anamosa and is home to Wapsipinicon Sate Park.
•   Discuss motorcycle history in Anamosa, since it is home to J&P Cycles, the largest aftermarket motorcycle parts and accessories retailer in the world, and the National Motorcycle Museum.
•   Stories about Anamosa’s churches, schools, hospitals, fairs, railroads and much more, demonstrate how Anamosa has retained its small town charm.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at (888)-313-2665 or online.  

Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States.  Our mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America’s people and places.  Have we done a book on your town?  Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com/.