Iowa has fewer official state symbols than almost any other state, similar to Indiana. As symbols rosters swell to the bursting point, this is somewhat refreshing. However, Iowa’s symbols are also among the least unique. Nor are they terribly exciting, inspirational or even educational.
Iowa’s rather drab flag is offset by a somewhat inspirational, though wordy, motto (Our liberties we prize, and our rights we will maintain). The nickname Hawkeye State seems to offer a spirited connection to Iowa’s frontier past. But it seems somehow disconnected in a state where most traces of Native American culture have been obliterated.
Iowa’s most representative symbol may be its second official song, The Iowa Corn Song.
Plants
Iowa/Introduction is one of ten states (Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Virginia and Wyoming) that have but two plant symbols, a state flower and tree. Iowa shares the wild prairie rose with North Dakota and Alberta. While five states have adopted particular species of oak, Iowans simply designated the “oak.”
Animals
Iowa is the only state with just two official animals, a state bird and fish. (Indiana is represented only by a state bird.) It shares the eastern goldfinch with distant New Jersey and Washington.The channel catfish represents five states (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Tennessee).
Earth Symbols
Iowa is one of the few states with no official fossil. Its official rock is the geode, with no particular variety specified.
Miscellaneous Symbols
Iowa/Introduction is one of two dozen states that call English their official language. One of the state’s most representative symbols is its second official song, The Iowa Corn Song.
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