NATIONAL NEW YORK DAY

September 20, 2026August 21, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 14 Comments

As we continue our tour of the states, September 21 brings us to the perfect time to honor National New York Day.

People & Places

The Lenape people populated the land now known as New York. They’re also known as the Delaware Indians. Their settlements also spread across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and parts of Delaware and Connecticut. However, the Dutch were the first Europeans to settle the area and named it New Netherland.

Settlements and trading posts developed up and down the Hudson River. Albany, the state capital, was once called Beverwijck and the center of the fur trade. In 1624, the Dutch established a settlement on Nutten Island named New Amsterdam. Two years later, they would move to Manhattan Island, and the colony flourished.

Over time, the settlement exchanged hands between the Dutch and British several times, each without bloodshed. The first exchange, in 1664, would name it New York.

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Independence & Influence

After delcaring independence, the colonies later created the Articles of Confederation. Soon they discovered a stronger governing document was needed.

While New York sent three delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, only Alexander Hamilton remained to sign the final document. A Federalist, Hamilton held strong opinions that could potentially influence the framing of the young nation’s new governing document. For one, Hamilton supported a life term of service for the President.

Hidden Treasures

Bannerman’s Castle, Beacon

Museum of the American Gangster, New York

Old Dutch Church at Sleepy Hollow, Sleepy Hollow

Buffalo Central Terminal, Buffalo

Abandoned Girl Scout Camp, Sodusuffalo

From the timeless halls of Ellis Island to the epic beauty of Niagara Falls and breathtaking Adirondacks, New York is infused with grand vistas and endless historical paths to retrace. With New York City as the epitome of a melting pot long before the term was coined, the state is full of inspiration for artists, sparks intelligent debate and philosophical discussion.

New York Symbols

State Capital – Albany
State Nickname – The Empire State
State Motto – Excelsior
State Slogan – I Love NY
State Bird – Eastern Blue Bird
State Reptile – Snapping Turtle
State Flower – Rose
State Fruit – Apple State Shell – Bay Scallop
State Tree – Sugar Maple
State Gemstone – Garnet
State Insect – Nine – Spotted Ladybug

NEW YORK FLAVOR

Nailing down New York food is like trying to see all the important sites in one long weekend. It’s just not possible. So, we’ll just name a few and you’ll just have to graze your way through the state tasting the rest.

Buffalo Wings
Peppermint Pig
Tomato Pie
Waldorf Salad
Salt Potatoes
Chicken Riggies
Melba Sauce
Sponge Candy
Utica Greens
Grape Pie
Mini Dogs

Explore More….

Looking for an adventure? Take a road trip for your next vacation. Chances are you’ll find a lot more than 50 reasons to enjoy the scenery. Whether visiting family and friends or another specific spot, do some road tripping to some scenic vistas and appreciate the history, flavor and cultures along the way.

MARTIN VAN BUREN (December 5, 1782 – July 24, 1862)
MILLARD FILLMORE (January 7, 1800 – March 8, 1874)
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (October 27, 1858 – January 6, 1919)
FRANKLIN D ROOSEVELT (January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945)
DONALD TRUMP (June 14, 1946 -)

Notable People

Clement Clarke Moore – Poet – (July 15, 1779 – July 10, 1863)

The Poet of Christmas Eve, a Life of Clement Clarke Moore, 1779-1863

Norman Rockwell – Painter Illustrator – (February 3, 1894 – November 8, 1978)

My Adventures as an Illustrator: The Definitive Edition — Norman Rockwell

Walt Whitman – Poet – (May 31, 1819 – March 26, 1892)

Walt Whitman Poetry Collection: Leaves of Grass, Various Works and Poems, and A Complete Biography of Walt Whitman

Soiumlct I Exist As I Am That Is Enough Poetry Wall Art Walt Whitman Inspirational Quote Poster Ready to Hang for living Room Bedroom Office Home Wall Decor Artwork (Wood Frame Stretched 12"*15") — Walt Whitman Poetry Collection: Leaves of Grass, Various Works and Poems, and A Complete Biography of Walt Whitman

Elizabeth Jennings Graham – Activist – (1830 – June 5, 1901)

America's First Freedom Rider: Elizabeth Jennings, Chester A. Arthur, and the Early Fight for Civil Rights — America’s First Freedom Rider: Elizabeth Jennings, Chester A. Arthur, and the Early Fight for Civil Rights

Eleanor Roosevelt – First Lady – (October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962)

You Learn by Living: Eleven Keys for a More Fulfilling Life — The Autobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt

Louis Bouche’ – Artist – (March 18, 1896 – August 7, 1969)

Louis Bouché : Arrangement : 1930 : Archival Art Print

Shirley Chisholm – Congresswoman – ( November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005)

Shirley Chisholm: First Black Congresswoman

Vince Lombardi – Football Coach – (June 11, 1913 – September 3, 1970)

Run to Daylight!: A Week in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers

What It Takes To Be Number #1: Vince Lombardi on Leadership — Run to Daylight!: A Week in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNewYorkDay

Celebrate New York’s impressive spaces, historic places, and iconic personalities. Explore all New York has to offer! Use #NationalNewYorkDay to share on social media.

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NATIONAL NEW HAMPSHIRE DAY

September 6, 2026August 21, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

National New Hampshire Day on September 7th recognizes the 9th state to join the Union. The Granite State epitomizes New England in many ways. From its breathtaking landscapes to its fascinating history and people.

State Symbols

State Capital – Concord
State Nickname – The Granite State
State Motto – Live free or die
State Bird – Purple Finch
State Flower – Purple lilac
State Animal – White – tailed deer
State Folk Dance –
State Fish – Brook Trout
State Dessert –
State Fossil –
State Mineral- Beryl
State Tree – White Birch
State Fruit – Pumpkin
State Song –
State Gemstone – Smokey Quartz
State Rock – Granite
State Insect – Ladybug

Quotable Quotes

If you’ve ever wondered where the phrase “not yet begun to fight” originated, just look to one of New Hampshire’s notable naval officers, John Paul Jones.

“Live Free or Die” is the state’s motto. Another revoluationary hero, John Stark earns the credit for it. In a written toast in honor of the anniversary of the Battle of Bennington, Stark’s full quote reads: “Live free or die, death is not the greatest of evils.” While he may not be the first to share the sentiment to live free or die, his toast summed up the country’s dedication to independence.

Settlers

New Hampshire’s history holds more than noble quotes. Many firsts fill its timeline. In 1719, Scotch-Irish settlers brought the first potatoes to North America. The settlers planted them in the settlement of Nutfield, now known as Londonderry.

Before Paul Revere had his famous ride, he first made another all-important journey. In 1774, Revere rode the 55 miles from Boston to Portsmouth to warn the citizens of an impending seizure of Fort William and Mary. The village stormed the fort and took control of the ammunitions before the British arrived.

Politics and More

New Hampshire became the first state to established an independent government. The state also created the first written constitution.

In 1828, when ownership changed hands at the Cocheco Manufacturing Company, the new owner reduced the wages of only the femail textile mill workers. On top of already difficult work and long days, the owners placed even stricter requirements on its employees. Frustated, on December 30th, about 400 of the female workers walked out. It became the nation’s first all female strike. The strike failed and resulted in many of the striking workers returning to work at even lower wages.

The state also holds its primaries before any other state. Early on during election time, the country focuses its attention on New Hampshire. Another phrase often attributed to New Hampshire: “As New Hampshire goes, so goes the nation.”

Known for its fall foliage, New Hampshire’s impressive colors bring visitors every autumn. From mountains to the seaside, the state offers year-round adventure.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNewHampshireDay

Celebrate New Hampshire’s historic places, panoramic scenery and captivating personalities. Explore all New Hampshire offers! Use #NationalNewHampshireDay to share on social media.

NEW HAMPSHIRE FLAVOR

With apples as the leading fruit crop in the state, it should be no surprise that the people of New Hampshire specialize in baking and cooking with them. That includes their cider donuts! Not that anyone would refuse a donut, but these taste like fall!

Apple Cider, whether spiked or not, is a special treat in New Hampshire. A hot mug of autumn’s spiced orchard produce will warm you right up!

If you need a stronger drink to warm the cockles of your heart, try New Hampshire’s honey mead which is often fermented with the season’s fresh fruits. Also called honey wine, mead may be the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage.

Being a coastal state, seafood like lobster is a top choice but don’t over look fresh water favorites like fried lake bass. With the mountain hikes to take in all the scenery in New Hampshire, it’s easy to work up an appetite to sample all this goodness!

Notable People

John Langdon – Patriot – (June 26, 1741 – September 18, 1819)

Daniel Webster – U.S. Senator – (January 18, 1782 – October 24, 1852)

Daniel Webster: The Man and His Time Hardcover – Illustrated, February 1, 1997

by Robert V. Remini (Author) — Daniel Webster: The Man and His Time Hardcover – Illustrated

by Robert V. Remini (Author)

Sarah Josepha Hale – Writer Poet (October 24, 1788 – April 30, 1879)

Franklin Pierce – U.S. President (November 23, 1804 – October 8, 1869)

Franklin Pierce: The American Presidents Series: The 14th President, 1853-1857 Kindle Edition

by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. (Author), & 3 more — Franklin Pierce: The American Presidents Series: The 14th President, 1853-1857

by Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. (Author), & 3 more

Horace Greeley – Journalist – (February 3, 1811 – November 29, 1872)

Horace Greeley: Print, Politics, and the Failure of American Nationhood Kindle Edition

by James M. Lundberg (Author)

Mary Baker Eddy – Author – (July 16, 1821 – December 3, 1910)

Mary Baker Eddy (Radcliffe Biography Series) Paperback – September 24, 1999

by Gill Gillian (Author), Gillian Gill (Author) — Mary Baker Eddy (Radcliffe Biography Series)

by Gill Gillian (Author), Gillian Gill (Author)

H. H. Holmes – Murderer – (May 16, 1861 – May 7, 1896)

H. H. Holmes: The True History of the White City Devil Kindle Edition

by Adam Selzer (Author) — H. H. Holmes: The True History of the White City Devil

by Adam Selzer (Author)

Harlan Stone – Supreme Court Justice – (October 11, 1872 – April 22, 1946)

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harlan_F._Stone — Harlan Stone Supreme Court Justice

Alan Shepard – Astronaut – (November 18, 1923 – July 21, 1998)

Moon Shot: The Inside Story of America's Apollo Moon Landings Kindle Edition

by Alan Shepard (Author), Deke Slayton (Author), Jay Barbree (Author), Neil Armstrong (Introduction), Howard Benedict (Contributor) Format: Kindle Edition — Moon Shot: The Inside Story of America’s Apollo Moon Landings Kindle Edition

by Alan Shepard (Author), Deke Slayton (Author), Jay Barbree (Author), Neil Armstrong (Introduction), Howard Benedict (Contributor) Format: Kindle Edition

NASA Video Collection: Alan Shepard - 1st US Man in Space — NASA Video Collection: Alan Shepard – 1st US Man in Space

John Irving – Author – (March 2, 1942 – )

Mandy Moore – Actress – (April 10, 1984 -)

Mandy Moore (Real-Life Reader Biography) Library Binding – June 1, 2001

by John Bankston (Author) — Mandy Moore (Real-Life Reader Biography)

by John Bankston (Author)

This Is Us: Seasons 1-3 DVD 3-Pack (Complete First Second Third Season)

Mandy Moore (Actor), Milo Ventimiglia (Actor)

Hannah Kearney – Olympian – (February 26, 1986 -)

Hidden Treasures

Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site – Derry

Madame Sherri Forest and Castle – Chesterfield

Thompson Falls – Pinkhams Grant

Hampton Historical Society and Tuck Museum Complex – Hampton (History of the only woman convicted of witchcraft in the state of New Hampshire as well as other fascinating information.)

U.S.S. Albacore – Portsmouth

NATIONAL CALIFORNIA DAY

February 21, 2026January 24, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

On February 22nd, National California Day recognizes the Golden State.

For more than a century, Spanish missionaries settled in California. Manifest Destiny and the Mexican American War would play a pivotal role in making California a U.S. Territory. Under the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, Mexico sold California along with its territories north of the Rio Grande for 15 million dollars.

Only days before the treaty was signed, gold was found at Sutter’s Mill in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The gold rush of 1849 would set off an era of settlement unlike any a new territory had ever seen. On September 9, 1850, two years after the gold rush began, California became the 31st state.

While many think of sunny beaches and orange groves, California has a diverse climate. Each region boasts an opportunity for seasonal outdoor adventures. Whether surfing or downhill skiing is on the agenda, it’s sure to be found. If hiking among giant redwoods or touring historic missions is more to your liking, you’ll discover it here.

Of course, we can’t overlook Northern California’s wine country. Beautiful road trips and wine tastings along the magnificent Napa Valley or Sonoma County are a must for wine lovers.

Swimmin’ pools and movie stars, Califonia has those in large numbers. While moving pictures weren’t born in California, Hollywood sure made them flourish. By the turn of the 20th century, Hollywood built a foundation of movie studios that continued to grow and many of which still exist today.

Official California

State Capital – Sacramento
State Nickname – The Golden State
State Motto – Eureka
State Theater – Pasadena Playhouse
State Bird – California Quail
State Amphibian – California Red – Legged Frog
State Flower – California Poppy
State Animal – California Grizzly Bear
State Folk Dance – Square Dance
State Dance – West Coast Swing
State Fish – California Golden Trout
State Rock – Serpentine
State Fossil – Saber – Toothed Cat
State Mineral – Gold
State Tree – California Redwood
State Song – I Love You, California
State Gemstone – Benitoite
State Artifact – Chipped Stone Bear
State Insect – California Dogface Butterfly

NATURE – ART – HISTORY

For a complete list of California State and National Parks & Historic Sites visit www.parks.ca.gov and www.nps.gov. Check out a few of the featured sites around the state below. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve – Lancaster Red Rock Canyon State Park – Cantil Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve – Guerneville California Citrus State Historic Park – Riverside California Indian Heritage Center – Sacramento Clear Lake State Park – Kelseyville Emerald Bay State Park – South Lake Tahoe Fort Tejon State Historic Park – Lebec Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park – Pine Grove Pigeon Point Light Station – Pescadero Death Valley Sequoia and Kings Canyon Yosemite – Sierra Nevada Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front – Richmond La Brea Tar Pits – Los Angeles Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles Exploratorium – San Francisco Aquarium of the Bay – San Francisco Alcatraz Island – San Francisco Sutters Fort – Sacramento Depot Park Museum – Sonoma Computer History Museum – Mountain View

California Flavor

California Roll
Fushion
Pho
Cobb Salad
Mission Burrito
Fish Tacos
Dim Sum
Kringle
Mochi

William Randolph Hearst – Publisher – (April 29, 1863 – August 14, 1951)

Julia Morgan – Architect – ( January 20, 1872 – February 2, 1957)

Robert Frost – Poet – (March 26, 1874 – January 29, 1963)

Jack London – Author – (January 12, 1876 – November 22, 1916)

George Patton – Army Officer – (November 11, 1885 – December 21, 1945)

Alice Stebbin Wells – Police Officer – (June 13, 1873 – August 17, 1957)

Dorothy Arzner – Director – (January 3, 1897 – October 1, 1979)

Ansel Adams – Photographer – (February 20, 1902 – April 22, 1984)

John Steinbeck – Author – (February 27, 1902 – December 20, 1968)

Helen Wills Moody Roark – Tennis player – (October 6, 1905 – January 1, 1998)

Ernest Gallo – Businessman – (March 18, 1909 – March 6, 2007)

Harvesting the American Dream: A Novel Based on the Life of Ernest Gallo

#NationalCalifoniaDay — Harvesting the American Dream: A Novel Based on the Life of Ernest Gallo

Julia Child – Chef – (August 15, 1912 – August 13, 2004)

Richard Nixon – President – (January 9, 1913 – April 22, 1994)

Iva Toguri – Radio Broadcaster – (July 4, 1916 – September 26, 2006)

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Etta James – Singer – (January 25, 1938 – January 20, 2012)

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George Lucas – Filmmaker – (May 14, 1944)

Lucas: His Hollywood Legacy#NationalCaliforniaDay — Lucas: His Hollywood Legacy

Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga 9-Movie Collection + Bonus#NationalCaliforniaDay — Lucas: His Hollywood Legacy

Sally Ride – Astronaut – (May 26, 1951 -July 23, 2012)

Steve Jobs – Businessman – (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011)

Steve Jobs#NationalCaliforniaDay — Steve Jobs

Octavia E. Butler – Author – (June 22, 1947 – February 24, 2006)

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCaliforniaDay

Take a tour of California and find something new to discover! Join us as we explore the 31st state’s history, people, and culture. Uncover hide-a-ways, mysteries and incredible landscapes. Use #NationalCaliforniaDay to share on social media.

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NATIONAL IOWA DAY

February 7, 2026January 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog

On February 8, National Iowa Day recognizes The Hawkeye State.

The 29th state to join the United States is known for fertile prairie, rolling hills, raising innovative people and some nostalgic movie moments. From the Mississippi River to the harvests in Plymouth, Harrison or Fremont counties, Iowa’s history, beauty and hospitality flourish.

For starters, Iowa is home to the oldest city in the state, Dubuque. Dubuque was founded in 1788, making it the oldest city in Iowa and one of the oldest settlements in the entire Midwest. Dubuque is also home to the oldest standing church in Iowa, the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, which was built in 1833.

Another interesting fact about Iowa is that it has the highest per capita number of bowling alleys in the United States. There are over 400 bowling alleys in the state, which is a lot considering the population of Iowa is only around 3.2 million people. This makes Iowa the perfect destination for anyone looking to spend a day or evening knocking down some pins.

In addition to its love of bowling, Iowa is also home to a number of unique festivals and events. One of the most well-known is the RAGBRAI, or the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa. This event is a week-long bike ride that takes place in July and attracts thousands of participants from around the world. The route changes every year, but it always ends up in a different city in the state.

Another quirky festival in Iowa is the National Hobo Convention, which takes place every year in the town of Britt. The convention is a celebration of the hobo lifestyle and attracts hobos and hobo enthusiasts from all over the country. It includes a hobo parade, a hobo queen coronation, and a hobo museum.

The state was named for Iowa Native Americans who populated the area when European settlement forced Eastern tribes westward.

Acquired as part of the Louisiana Purchase, Iowa Territory settlement didn’t start to take place until around the 1830s.

Iowa Official

State Capital – Des Moines
State Nickname – The Hawkeye State
State Motto – Our Liberties We Prize
State Language – English
State Bird – Eastern Goldfinch
State Vegetable – Sweet Corn
State Soil – Toma Soil
State Crop – Corn & Soybeans
State Rock – Geode
State Tree – Oak
State Song – Song of Iowa

Other Fascinating Faces and Places

One of the later settlements that remain today is the Amana Colony. A congregation of the Community of True Inspiration, their faith and persecution in Germany led them to immigrate to America for religious freedom. Iowa supplied fertile farmland and a home for them to practice their skills and their beliefs. Today, they open their community to the public. Shop for handmade gifts, homemade baked goods, wine and stay for a home-cooked meal.

In the southwestern part of the state, Madison County boasts beautiful covered bridges which were featured in the movie by a similar name. While touring the bridges, be sure to stop by Winterset and take in the birthplace of John Wayne.

Duke in His Own Words: John Wayne's Life in Letters, Handwritten Notes and Never-Before-Seen Photos Curated from His Private Archive Hardcover – October 27, 2015

by Editors of the Official John Wayne Magazine (Author), Ethan Wayne (Introduction) — Duke in His Own Words: John Wayne’s Life in Letters, Handwritten Notes and Never-Before-Seen Photos Curated from His Private Archive Hardcover – October 27, 2015

by Editors of the Official John Wayne Magazine (Author), Ethan Wayne (Introduction)

Not far from the Mississippi River, The Field of Dreams home is just outside Dyersville. They built it so that you would come.

Field of Dreams [Blu Ray] [Blu-ray]

Kevin Costner (Actor), Amy Madigan (Actor), & 1 more

For fantastic performances in a historic rock and roll venue, check out the events at the Surf Ballroom. Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper played their last concerts at the Surf Ballroom the night they perished in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa.

The Real Buddy Holly Story

Sonny Curtis (Actor), Paul McCartney (Actor, Producer), & 1 more — The Real Buddy Holly Story

Sonny Curtis (Actor), Paul McCartney (Actor, Producer), & 1 mor

Complete Recordings

Including La Bamba
Ritchie Valens — Complete Recordings Including La Bamba Ritchie Valens

Iowa is also home to a number of strange and unusual attractions. One of these is the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, which is located in Walcott. The museum is dedicated to the history of trucking and features a collection of vintage trucks, as well as a variety of trucking memorabilia.

Another unusual attraction in Iowa is the National Balloon Museum in Indianola. The museum is dedicated to the history of hot air balloons and features a collection of vintage balloons, as well as a variety of ballooning equipment. Visitors can also take a ride in a hot air balloon at the museum, which offers some of the best views in the state.

In addition to its museums and festivals, Iowa is also home to a number of unique natural attractions. One of these is the Maquoketa Caves State Park, which is located in the eastern part of the state. The park is home to a number of underground caves that visitors can explore, as well as a number of hiking trails and picnic areas.

Nature lovers will find plenty of adventure in Iowa. Effigy Mounds National Park will satisfy those with a mystical and historical curiosity. Rockhounds should seek out Geode State Park. The Corps of Discovery’s Louis and Clark Trail come through Iowa, too.

For a complete list of Iowa State and National Parks & Historic Sites visit www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks and www.nps.gov. Check out a few of the featured sites around the state below.

Dolliver Memorial State Park – Lehigh

Geode State Park – Danville

McIntosh Woods State Park – Ventura

Shimek State Forest – Farmington

http://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/ParkDetails/ParkID/610136

Viking Lake State Park – Stanton

http://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-to-Go/State-Parks/Iowa-State-Parks/ParkDetails/ParkID/610135

Iowa Old Capitol Building – Iowa City

Salisbury House – Des Moines

Effigy Mounds National Monument – Harpers Ferry

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum – Decorah

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library – Cedar Rapids

Union Pacific Railroad Museum – Council Bluffs

MacNider Art Museum – Mason City

American Gothic House – Eldon

Living History Farms – Urbandale

Sergeant Floyd – Iowa

Museum of Danish America – Elk Horn

Western Historic Trails Center – Council Bluffs

Little Brown Church – Nashua

Historic Squirrel Cage Jail – Council Bluffs

Bentonsport National Historic District – Bentonsport

Beedle Park Heritage Train – Cresco

Amana Heritage Museum – Amana

Iowa Flavors

Pork tenderloin
Maid Rites
Morel mushrooms
Pella Bologna
Iowa Sweet Corn
Muscatine melons
Stertzings Potato Chips
A & E Chip Dip
Twin Bings
Blue Bunny Ice Cream

One more unusual fact about Iowa is that it is home to the world’s largest Strawberry Shortcake. The giant dessert was created in 2009 as part of the annual Strawberry Fest in the town of Strawberry Point. The shortcake was over 10 feet in diameter and featured over 5,000 servings of strawberries, cake, and cream. It was so big that it had to be sliced and served to the crowd in pieces.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalIowaDay

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NATIONAL ARKANSAS DAY

January 10, 2026November 14, 2025Jensperspectiveblog 5 Comments

On January 11th, National Arkansas Day recognizes the Natural State and the 25th state to join the union.

Populated by Osage, Caddo, Quapaw tribes when French and Spanish explorers arrived in the area, Arkansas teems with streams, lakes, and rivers. Its eastern border is the Mississippi River. Little Rock may be its capital, but Arkansas is also known for big rocks and lots of rocks and minerals. It’s the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, has the only diamond mine in the U.S., and the Magnet Cove region contains 102 varieties of minerals.

Arkansas earns the name “Natural State” with over half the state is forested and more than 1 million acres in Ozark National Forest. But that’s not all that contributes to the apt nickname.

Hot Springs National Park became America’s first national preserve in what later became the National Park System. When Arkansas was still a territory, officials recognized the unique qualities of the hot springs and requested the area be set aside and protected. President Andrew Jackson signed legislation on April 20, 1832, designating four sections of land which included the hot springs and adjacent mountains “…reserved for the future disposal of the United States (which) shall not be entered, located, or appropriated, for any other purpose whatsoever.”

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What’s in a Name

When Arkansas first became a state in 1836, how to pronounce the name of the 25th state was up for debate. Was it Arkan-saw or Ar-kansas? The issue was settled in 1881 when the State General Assembly passed Concurrent Resolution No.4. It stated the state’s name would be pronounced Arkan-saw and spelled Arkansas.

Many who have called Arkansas home have left marks on our hearts and minds. From the legendary Johnny Cash and talented composers, Scott Joplin, and Roberta Martin, to authors Ernest Hemmingway and Maya Angelou and many more found a home at some time in Arkansas.

Nestled along the Mississippi River, Arkansas swells with delta, Civil War era, the blues and jazz, and Western migration history. The worst maritime disaster in United States history occurred on the Mississippi River just north of Marion, Arkansas. Greater than the Titanic disaster, the Sultana steamboat exploded on April 27, 1865, just weeks after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln. Over 1,800 souls perished.

Official Arkansas

State Capital – Little Rock
State Nickname – The Natural State
State Motto – The People Rule
State Bird – Mockingbird
State Amphibian –
State Dinosaur – Arkansas fridays
State Butterfly – Diana Fritillary Butterfly
State Flower – Apple Blossom
State Animal – White tailed Deer
State Folk Dance – Square Dance
State Nut – Pecan
State Drink – Milk
State Tree – Flowering Dogwood
State Gemstone – Diamond
State Insect – Honeybee

Art and History

For a complete list of Arkansas State and National Parks & Historic Sites visit www.arkansasstateparks.com and www.nps.gov. Check out a few of the featured sites around the state below.

Buffalo – Harrison and St. Joe

Hot Springs

Pea Ridge

Crater of Diamonds State Park – Murfreesboro

Lake Frierson State Park – Jonesboro

Louisiana Purchase State Park – Brinkley

Mark’s Mills Battleground State Park – Fordyce

Mammoth Spring State Park – Mammoth Spring

Mount Nebo State Park – Dardanelle

Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park – Scott

MUSEUMS

Sultana Disaster Museum – Marion

Historic Arkansas Museum – Little Rock

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – Bentonville

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum – Pulaski County

Museum of Native American History – Bentonville

Delta Cultural Center – Helena

Gangster Museum of America – Hot Springs

Arkansas Air & Military Museum – Fayetteville

Delta Gateway Museum – Blytheville

Japanese American Internment Museum – McGehee

Hidden Treasures

Esse Purse Museum – Little Rock

Quigleyâ€™s Castle – Eureka Springs

Chaffee Barbershop Museum – Fort Smith

Tripoints – Arkansas/Missouri/Oklahoma

Explore More…

Notable People

John Hanks Alexander – United States Military – (January 6, 1864 – March 26, 1894)

Douglas MacArthur – Military Leader – (January 26, 1880 – April 5, 1964)

Louise Thaden – Pilot – (November 12, 1905 – November 9, 1979)

Bear Bryant – Coach – (September 11, 1913 – January 26, 1983)

Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Singer – (March 20, 1915 – October 9, 1973)

John Harold Johnson – Publisher – (January 19, 1918 – August 8, 2005)

Maurice Britt – Military Serviceman – (June 29, 1919 – November 26, 1995)

Samuel Kountz – Surgeon – (October 30, 1930 – December 30 1981)

Johnny Cash – Singer/Songwriter – (February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003)

Joycelyn Elders – Physician – (August 13, 1933 – )

Bill Clinton – President – (August 19, 1946 -)

Arkansas Flavor

Fried Catfish
Fried Chicken
Chicken Fried Steak
Fried Okra
Deviled eggs
Baked Beans
Beans and Cornbread
Fried Pickles
Chocolate Gravy
Sawmill Gravy

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalArkansasDay

Enjoy Arkansas’ natural beauty and fascinating history. Uncover hidden treasures and soak up all of Arkansas’ impressive views! Use #NationalArkansasDay to share on social media.

Jen's Perspective Blog

Love, laugh, live! Life to the fullest.

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NATIONAL NEW YORK DAY

People & Places

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Clement Clarke Moore – Poet – (July 15, 1779 – July 10, 1863)

Norman Rockwell – Painter Illustrator – (February 3, 1894 – November 8, 1978)

Walt Whitman – Poet – (May 31, 1819 – March 26, 1892)

Elizabeth Jennings Graham – Activist – (1830 – June 5, 1901)

Eleanor Roosevelt – First Lady – (October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962)

Louis Bouche’ – Artist – (March 18, 1896 – August 7, 1969)

Shirley Chisholm – Congresswoman – ( November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005)

Vince Lombardi – Football Coach – (June 11, 1913 – September 3, 1970)

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNewYorkDay

NATIONAL ARKANSAS DAY

What’s in a Name

Official Arkansas

Art and History

Hidden Treasures

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Notable People

John Hanks Alexander – United States Military – (January 6, 1864 – March 26, 1894)

Douglas MacArthur – Military Leader – (January 26, 1880 – April 5, 1964)

Louise Thaden – Pilot – (November 12, 1905 – November 9, 1979)

Bear Bryant – Coach – (September 11, 1913 – January 26, 1983)

Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Singer – (March 20, 1915 – October 9, 1973)

John Harold Johnson – Publisher – (January 19, 1918 – August 8, 2005)

Maurice Britt – Military Serviceman – (June 29, 1919 – November 26, 1995)

Samuel Kountz – Surgeon – (October 30, 1930 – December 30 1981)

Johnny Cash – Singer/Songwriter – (February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003)

Joycelyn Elders – Physician – (August 13, 1933 – )

Bill Clinton – President – (August 19, 1946 -)

Arkansas Flavor

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalArkansasDay

People & Places

Independence & Influence

Hidden Treasures

New York Symbols

NEW YORK FLAVOR

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Notable People

Clement Clarke Moore – Poet – (July 15, 1779 – July 10, 1863)

Norman Rockwell – Painter Illustrator – (February 3, 1894 – November 8, 1978)

Walt Whitman – Poet – (May 31, 1819 – March 26, 1892)

Elizabeth Jennings Graham – Activist – (1830 – June 5, 1901)

Eleanor Roosevelt – First Lady – (October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962)

Louis Bouche’ – Artist – (March 18, 1896 – August 7, 1969)

Shirley Chisholm – Congresswoman – ( November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005)

Vince Lombardi – Football Coach – (June 11, 1913 – September 3, 1970)

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Notable People

John Langdon – Patriot – (June 26, 1741 – September 18, 1819)

Daniel Webster – U.S. Senator – (January 18, 1782 – October 24, 1852)

Sarah Josepha Hale – Writer Poet (October 24, 1788 – April 30, 1879)

Franklin Pierce – U.S. President (November 23, 1804 – October 8, 1869)

Horace Greeley – Journalist – (February 3, 1811 – November 29, 1872)

Mary Baker Eddy – Author – (July 16, 1821 – December 3, 1910)

H. H. Holmes – Murderer – (May 16, 1861 – May 7, 1896)

Harlan Stone – Supreme Court Justice – (October 11, 1872 – April 22, 1946)

Alan Shepard – Astronaut – (November 18, 1923 – July 21, 1998)

John Irving – Author – (March 2, 1942 – )

Mandy Moore – Actress – (April 10, 1984 -)

Hannah Kearney – Olympian – (February 26, 1986 -)

Hidden Treasures

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NATURE – ART – HISTORY

California Flavor

William Randolph Hearst – Publisher – (April 29, 1863 – August 14, 1951)

Julia Morgan – Architect – ( January 20, 1872 – February 2, 1957)

Robert Frost – Poet – (March 26, 1874 – January 29, 1963)

Jack London – Author – (January 12, 1876 – November 22, 1916)

George Patton – Army Officer – (November 11, 1885 – December 21, 1945)

Alice Stebbin Wells – Police Officer – (June 13, 1873 – August 17, 1957)

Dorothy Arzner – Director – (January 3, 1897 – October 1, 1979)

Ansel Adams – Photographer – (February 20, 1902 – April 22, 1984)

John Steinbeck – Author – (February 27, 1902 – December 20, 1968)

Helen Wills Moody Roark – Tennis player – (October 6, 1905 – January 1, 1998)

Ernest Gallo – Businessman – (March 18, 1909 – March 6, 2007)

Julia Child – Chef – (August 15, 1912 – August 13, 2004)

Richard Nixon – President – (January 9, 1913 – April 22, 1994)

Iva Toguri – Radio Broadcaster – (July 4, 1916 – September 26, 2006)

Etta James – Singer – (January 25, 1938 – January 20, 2012)

George Lucas – Filmmaker – (May 14, 1944)

Sally Ride – Astronaut – (May 26, 1951 -July 23, 2012)

Steve Jobs – Businessman – (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011)

Octavia E. Butler – Author – (June 22, 1947 – February 24, 2006)

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What’s in a Name

Official Arkansas

Art and History

Hidden Treasures

Explore More…

Notable People

John Hanks Alexander – United States Military – (January 6, 1864 – March 26, 1894)

Douglas MacArthur – Military Leader – (January 26, 1880 – April 5, 1964)

Louise Thaden – Pilot – (November 12, 1905 – November 9, 1979)

Bear Bryant – Coach – (September 11, 1913 – January 26, 1983)

Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Singer – (March 20, 1915 – October 9, 1973)

John Harold Johnson – Publisher – (January 19, 1918 – August 8, 2005)