What Is The History Of Des Moines?

Des Moines, Iowa. Fort Des Moines was established in 1843 at the confluence of the two rivers to protect the rights of the Sauk and Fox peoples who then inhabited the region. The area was opened to settlers in 1845. The community grew rapidly and became a city in 1857, the word “Fort” being dropped from the name.

Who settled Des Moines?

In the 1670s, two French explorers, Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet , were the first Europeans to explore the Mississippi River Valley, and hence the first to set foot in what is now Iowa.

What is Des Moines known for?

Des Moines has taken many steps in the last few decades to become a vibrant cultural mecca of the Midwest. Home to major insurance companies and a significant political landscape , Des Moines is also infused with sculpture parks, botanical gardens, and a thriving shopping and dining scene.

What is the origin of Des Moines?

The monks lived in huts at the American Bottom at the mouth of the river. Explorers decided to name the river that ran through this area Riviere des Moines which translates to “river of monks.” Many feel our city was named after that river since it flowed through the area.

When did Des Moines get electricity?

In 1888 , Des Moines became the second city in the nation to have electric rail service with the opening of the Broad Gauge Railway Co. running along Locust Street and Grand Avenue.

What are 5 interesting facts about Iowa?

Iowa is the only state bordered by two navigable rivers; the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi River to the east. The capital of Iowa is Des Moines. Iowa’s nickname is the Hawkeye state. Iowa has 3 state universities: Iowa StateUniversity, University of Iowa, and University of Northern Iowa.

Is Des Moines Safe?

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa. Like all cities in the United States, crime rates in Des Moines are higher than the national average . There are higher reports of violent crime, property crime, and petty crime, making it more dangerous to live within the boundaries of the city.

What is the racial makeup of Des Moines Iowa?

According to the most recent ACS, the racial composition of Des Moines was: White: 75.75% Black or African American: 11.36% Asian: 6.17%

Is Iowa a French word?

The area of Iowa was claimed for France and remained a French territory until 1763 . The French, before their impending defeat in the French and Indian War, transferred ownership to their ally, Spain.

What does the word Iowa mean?

THE WORD “IOWA”—WHAT IT MEANS. BY L. F. ... pplied by the Omahas to a tribe in this territory, and which means “ Grey Snow ,” or “Drowsy Ones” — tradition having it that when the Iowa tribes left the parent tribe in the north, a snow-storm prevailed.

What does Des Moines mean in Indian?

The site already proffers two possible explanations for the capital’s moniker: Some people feel that ‘Des Moines’ is derived from the Indian word “ moingona’ meaning river of the mounds which referred to the burial mounds that were located near the banks of the river.

Is Des Moines an Indian name?

The origin of the city’s place-name is controversial: it is possibly a French corruption of the Algonquian name for the river , Moingona; alternatively, it may be derived from the French de moyen (“middle”), being midway between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, or perhaps it was a reference to the Trappist monks ( ...

Is Des Moines a good place to live?

Des Moines is one of the best places to live in America . ... Ranking number 83 on Livability’s 2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live list, Des Moines offers something for everyone, from the local foodie, craft beer expert, art fanatic, families with kids of all ages, the outdoorsy type and so much more.

What is the US state capital of Iowa?

Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa, but in 1840 Iowa City was the capital. In 1855 the decision was made to move the capital to Des Moines. Only four years after legislators moved into the capitol at Iowa City, Iowa became a state.

Is Des Moines a state?