Martha Washington Questers No. 1032

Eight members of Martha Washington Questers assembled at the home of Janet Peterson, hostess, on Oct. 22. A short business meeting was held, Vice President Jane Fehr presiding, with minutes and treasurer reports being approved as read.

A get well card was signed for President Marilyn Whitenack. Group was reminded of dates for Terrace Hill Xmas Teas on Dec. 12 and 13, State Day on April 22 and 23, 2022, and International Convention May 13-15, 2022.

Meeting was adjourned, and we will continue to discuss program ideas in the future.

Program for the day was an outing to Columbus Junction, visiting the historic Swinging Bridge Park, also called Lovers Leap. The area has been enhanced in recent years with new flower gardens and sculptures, which can be viewed after crossing over the deep ravine.

New signage relaying how the first bridge was built in 1886, reconstructed in 1904 and completely renovated about 1922 tells the often-told tale of an Indian maiden jumping to her death from the bridge when her lover was killed in battle. The 100th anniversary is being planned for 2022.

Our group then traveled east on Highway 92 to Convict Road, constructed in 1904 near Fredonia. From billboards depicting the history of how and why it was built, we learned that prisoners were used from Anamosa Reformatory and supervised by the newly formed Department of Transportation.

The Louisa County Board of Supervisors approved the taxpayer funding to build the 1¾-mile road of concrete, which has stood the test of time and is still in good shape. It is one for the first rural concrete roads to be built in the nations, using local stone, sand and cement.

A short side trip from signs along Highway 92 point you in the direction of this interesting bit of history.

Everyone returned to hostess Janet’s home for an assortment of desserts, candy and sandwiches prepared by co-hostess Dorothy Miller.

Next and final meeting for the winter is at Jane Fehr’s house Nov. 19 with Barbara Wehr co-hostess.