It's been nearly 50 years since an Iowa farmer hosted Russian Premier Nikita Khrushchev at his farm in Coon Rapids, Iowa.
A little historical perspective is necessary to understand this feat. This was in 1959, at the height of the Cold War. An open invitation four years earlier to visit Iowa was published in the Des Moines Register in February, 1955. '"We have no diplomatic authority," reporter Lauren Soth wrote, "but we hereby extend an invitation to any delegation Khrushchev wants to select to come to Iowa to get the lowdown on raising high quality cattle, hogs, sheep and chickens. We promise to hide none of our "secrets." Let the Russians see how we do it."' This simple invitation set into motion an incredible set of circumstances that led to Nikita Khrushchev's visit to Iowa in August, 1959.
This photo (credit to Life Magazine) of Khrushchev on the left in the gray suit and Garst, (on the right, reaching into the corn bin) is one of dozens documented that day as Garst showed one of the most powerful leaders in the world his farm in Coon Rapids.
Garst's daughters Rachel and Liz still live near the farm and now have dedicated their lives to preserving the natural environment surrounding the Garst farmhouse, where Khrushchev stayed during his visit. Creating Great Places, a non-profit organization, and the people of Coon Rapids are planning an anniversary celebration of the visit at the Garst Farm August 27-30.
One of the things I love about Iowa is its progressive nature. This is a perfect example of the gumption of Iowans to change the world. Join Coon Rapids at a conference and dinner to celebrate the audacity of Iowa.
My love affair with the town of Coon Rapids and its people started in 2005 when it was named one of Iowa's first "Great Places." The presentation included the release of a wild hawk, and I was allowed to let the great bird go. What a sight, as the creature flapped its wings and flew into the air. I'm no longer on the Iowa Great Places advisory board, but it was a great experience.
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