News : Vinton Rail Road Depot among nominees for “People’s Choice Site of the Year”

The History Center in Cedar Rapids has been named the Silos & Smokestacks 2024 "People's Choice Site of the Year." The Scenic City Empress Boat Club in Iowa Falls and the African American Museum of Iowa in Cedar Rapids were both honored as being one of the top three sites.

"We are thrilled to recognize The History Center as our People's Choice site of the year," said Silos & Smokestacks Executive Director Cara Miller. "They have worked hard to maintain a quality site and stayed relevant for the community and visitors."

Each year, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area (SSNHA) celebrates the best in heritage development by presenting the "People's Choice Site of the Year". Voted on by the public, this special honor is presented to only one deserving SSNHA Partner Site.

The complete list of 2024 nominees includes:

The History Center, Cedar Rapids

Scenic City Empress Boat Club, Iowa Falls

African American Museum of Iowa, Cedar Rapids

Vinton Rail Road Depot, Vinton

Iowa's Dairy Center, Calmar

Public voting ran closed on November 1. The History Center was announced as the winner at Silos & Smokestacks Heritage Site Annual Training Awards Luncheon on November 14.

Through a network of sites, programs and events, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area tells the story of farm life and agribusiness-past and present. Visitors can learn about and experience agriculture at a variety of museums, historic sites, and farms. One of 62 federally designated heritage areas in the nation, Silos & Smokestacks and the National Park Service are members of the National Heritage Area System. The heritage area covers 37 counties in the northeast quadrant of Iowa. To plan your visit, go to www.silosandsmokestacks.org.