The Winterset Citizen, June 5, 2020

Honoring History

Susan B Anthony Plaque Installed

In 1875, activist Susan B. Anthony visited Winterset and gave a speech from the steps of our courthouse. 145 years later, and 100 years after the ratification of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote, the Madison County Dream Big Dreams committee has worked diligently to install this commemorative plaque to mark a piece of history.

The sign was installed a few days ago on the side of the Heartland Building on the west side of the square. Take a look next time you’re up there and appreciate the hard work from everyone involved in the project and their dedication to observing and sharing the history of Winterset and Madison County.


Winterset on Wheels

Another project of the Madison County Dream Big Dreams committee, spearheaded by Carol Liechty, is revival of a program that was started by a group of WMS fifth grade teachers in the 1990s—Winterset on Wheels.

The new Winterset on Wheels map was published in the April 29th edition of the Madisonian. In case you missed it there, copies are being place in the ‘Little Free Libraries’ at 4th Ave/W. Jefferson and 5th St/E. Court. Hop on your bike, pick up a copy and see where it takes you! The map will lead you to two dozen notable sites like the Historical Complex, houses that were used in the filming of Cold Turkey, and the Ruby House B&B which was Winterset’s hospital at one time. While you’re visiting the sites, read the “Did you Know?” facts and learn about Winterset’s rich history. Once you’ve concluded your journey, just pop your map back into one of the two libraries for someone else to use.

But that’s not all [she said in her cheesiest radio announcer voice!]…while you’re exploring the town with your Winterset on Wheels map, snap a picture. Then email it to us at TheWintersetCitizen@gmail.com or post it on our Facebook page (@TheWintersetCitizen) to receive a prize!

Our adventure took us to the Winterset Cemetery where we found markers for some of the founding families from Madison County. It was a HOT night, but the kiddos had a great time!


Wrapping up the School Year

I want to take one more opportunity to recognize and applaud the Winterset Community School District and all of the teachers, staff and administrators for their positive approach to a most unusual situation the past 10 weeks. With kids in three different grade levels, and a husband as a HS teacher, I was able to witness firsthand how much creativity and care went into the creation of virtual learning opportunities in our school district right up until the very end.

One of the most amazing undertakings was the virtual commencement that took place last Sunday. The amount of time and thought that went into the planning and execution was truly astonishing. There are a lot of traditional ‘right of passage’ moments that this year’s senior class missed, but this commencement is one that they will never forget!

Two days later, students and families had the opportunity to bid a final farewell to their teachers in a reverse parade.

Four retiring employees, Rae de Regnier, Annette Purdy, Cindy Tucker and Shelia Waltz, were also honored with a drive-by parade/reception.

The wonderful individuals who make up the Winterset Community School District are nothing short of phenomenal!


Community Updates

The Iowa re-opening…Take 2

While originally planning to reopen on June 3rd, a projector issue has forced the Iowa Theater to wait one more week to welcome you back for cinema and popcorn. Capacity in the theater is limited to 31 seats total and purchasing your tickets in advance online is encouraged. Patrons are also strongly encouraged to wear masks when in the lobby, the restroom (which will be treated as single-stall) and when entering and exiting the theater.

If you have any questions, you’re encouraged to contact them at rebecca@the-iowa.com

Here’s the schedule for the remainder of June:


Winterset Public Library

Curbside Pickup on Tuesdays and Thursdays

The Winterset Public Library continues to offer curbside pickup of books and media materials on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you’d like to get some new materials, you can place holds through their online catalog using your library card, call the library at 515-462-1731, or email library@winterset.lib.ia.us. Items checked out now are subject to standard loan periods—the drop off boxes on the east side of the library are open for returning materials.


Winterset Farmers Market

Now Open on Saturday Mornings

The Madison County Farmers Market has opened for the season and market hours are 8:00am-Noon on Saturdays. Just like everything else, there are some differences this year. For now, only those sellers with farm products or food are present.

The market is asking for your help with these guidelines: stay home if you are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19, allow 6-foot distancing, wear a face mask or facial covering,  and, if possible, attend the market alone without other family members.



Mayor’s Bike Ride

Saturday • June 6 • 8:00am

The Mayor’s Bike Ride is one of the few events that is still on the calendar! Pump up your tires, dust off your helmet, and join Mayor Macumber tomorrow morning in a ride around Winterset. Meet at the aquatic center at 8:00 am.


Classic Car Show & Shine

June 13 • 4:00 – 7:00pm

After a couple of months of ‘cruises’ instead of static shows, the Central Iowa Car Club will return to the Winterset Square on Saturday, June 13th, for their first “Show & Shine” of 2020. Bring a mask and keep your distance from others as you walk among the showy vehicles, both vintage and modern.


Fishing Derby

June 19th – 21st

Sign up now for the first ever Winterset Fishing Derby hosted by the Winterset Parks & Recreation Department! Catch Bass, Crappie or Catfish ANYWHERE during the derby window for a chance to win tournament trophies!

Here’s how it works:

1. Register online at wprd.activityreg.com
2. Fish anywhere, following state laws
3. Catch Large Mouth Bass, Crappie or Channel Catfish anytime between 5 a.m. on June 19th and 5 p.m. on June 21st.
4. Submit a date and time stamped photo via e-mail of the fish next to a standard measuring device (Ruler, Tape Measure, or Yard Stick)
5. The longest fish in each category/age division wins

Age Divisions: 15 and Under & 16+.

Winners will be determined by length of fish in each category and age group. Trophies will be awarded to each winner.


Iowa Strong

Just today we learned of a new program that has come from the incredible brains of Sarah and Sandra at 1st Avenue Collective.

Show your Winterset Pride by purchasing an Iowa STRONG t-shirt printed with the name of your favorite business. With each purchase, the named business will receive $5 of the $15 purchase price. T-shirts can be purchased from 1st Avenue Collective at their new location on the north side of the square, 69 E Jefferson.


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Thank you for reading The Winterset Citizen. All community announcements are provided at no charge, courtesy of the following sponsors:

American State Bank
Anchored Walls
Ben Franklin
Blanchard Family Dentistry
Covered Bridge Realty
Farmers & Merchants State Bank
Homefront Real Estate
The Iowa Theater
Johnson Insurance
John Wayne Birthplace Museum
Lowe Chiropractic Clinic
Madison County Health Care System
Madison County Historical Society
McGowen Hurst Clark Smith
Medicap Pharmacy
Midwest Heritage Bank
Montross Pharmacy
State Farm, Charlotte Speer
Union State Bank
Winterset Ballet & Dance Studio
Winterset Optimist Club
Winterset Parks & Recreation Department

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