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Discovery of the Delicious Apple Historical Marker

Visit the historical marker in Winterset, Iowa, commemorating the discovery of the world-famous 'Delicious' apple in the 1870s.

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Commemorating the birthplace of the 'Delicious' apple, this historical marker in Winterset, Iowa, marks the spot where Jesse Hiatt discovered the chance seedling in the 1870s that would become one of America's most popular apples. The marker celebrates Iowa's contribution to the world of agriculture and the story of perseverance behind this iconic fruit.

A brief summary to Discovery of the Delicious Apple Historical Marker

  • Winterset, Iowa, 50273, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the fall harvest season for the freshest local apples and related treats.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge in City Park.
  • Explore other attractions in Winterset, such as the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum and the Iowa Quilt Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Discovery of the Delicious Apple Historical Marker is located in Winterset, Iowa. From the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center, head east on Jefferson Street, then turn right onto S 9th St. The marker is located within City Park on the east side, a short walk from the street. There is no cost to visit the marker.

  • Public Transport

    Winterset is served by HIRTA (Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency). From various points in Madison County, use HIRTA to get to Winterset. From the Welcome Center, follow the walking directions to reach the marker. A one-way trip within the city costs $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Winterset, a taxi or ride-share service like Uber can provide transportation to the historical marker. Simply provide the destination address. The cost of a short trip within Winterset is approximately $8-$15, depending on the distance and service.

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Discover more about Discovery of the Delicious Apple Historical Marker

In Winterset, Iowa, a historical marker stands as a testament to the origin of the 'Delicious' apple. In the 1870s, Jesse Hiatt, a local farmer, noticed an unusual seedling growing among his apple trees. Despite his initial attempts to remove it, the seedling persisted, and after six years, it bore fruit unlike any he had seen before. Hiatt named it 'Hawkeye' after the state of Iowa. Clarence Stark, a nurseryman, discovered Hiatt's apple at a fruit show and recognized its potential. Stark purchased the rights to the apple in 1894 and renamed it 'Delicious'. The Stark Brothers Nursery then introduced and disseminated the apple throughout the country. In 1922, a monument was erected in Winterset to commemorate Hiatt's discovery. The 'Delicious' apple, with its distinctive shape and sweet flavor, became the most grown apple in the United States for over 75 years. It was later hybridized to create the 'Gala' apple, which is now the most grown apple in the country. The historical marker serves as a reminder of Iowa's agricultural heritage and the enduring legacy of the 'Delicious' apple.

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