Discovering The True Origins Of The World's Only Corn Palace

Ready for today's history shocker? Mitchell, South Dakota was not home to the very first Corn Palace. The story began in Sioux City, where at the time, stood the world's only corn palace. Shocked? Me too!

An adventurous man named Edward W. Loft designed a corn palace in Sioux City constructed in 1887 from corn stalks, husks, and silks. At the time, it was considered a modern marvel and attracted entertainers, tourists, and even the President of the United States, Grover Cleveland! It was Loft's idea to celebrate the fall harvest in this "agri-tectural" manner.

Not to be outdone, a Sugar Beet Palace was built in Grand Island Nebraska. After that, a sorghum palace was erected in Arcola, Illinois.

So, what happened to the Sioux City Corn Palace?

According to the Sioux City Public Museum, by 1891 the revenue and sponsorships were no longer available due to economic hardships. They decided to tear it down but found themselves with not even enough money to do that, but managed to auction it off to the highest bidder who began disassembling the unique palace and selling off little pieces of its brief history.

Even after all this, they still wanted to build another corn palace but the devastating flood of 1892 had the final say. Ten people died and Sioux City was left in ruins. A palace made of corn was no longer in the plans as the town started to rebuild. Still, the idea would stick around and plans were slowly being made for another one.

Then, financial tragedy struck one year later as the Financial Panic of 1893 unfolded. Seeing that mother nature seemed to be against the idea and the financial outlook was very dire, the plans were scrapped altogether.

How did the corn palace idea come to Mitchell, South Dakota?

According to Roadside America, the community of Mitchell was enamored with the idea and ran with it. They wanted to prove to the world that South Dakota had a healthy agricultural climate and the "World's only Corn Palace" has now stood for over 100 years.

Here's How to Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday in Sioux Falls.

We've added even MORE birthday freebies from Sioux Falls businesses.

Everyone loves free stuff, especially on your birthday. Most of the freebies require you to sign up for their rewards program, e-mail list, or mobile app, so make sure you plan ahead. Some of the offers are good just on your birthday, while others are good for a week or longer.

Of course, this is just a small list. There are many more businesses that offer free stuff for your birthday right here in Sioux Falls. You just need to ask! Or, choose your favorite business, check out their website, and sign up for their e-mail club. All offers are subject to change at any time. Call ahead or check their website for more details.

*List updated 12/28/2022 - Individual businesses may change their policies at any time.

Gallery Credit: Karla Brown

Inside Minnesota's Largest Candy Store

I had been to Minnesota's Largest Candy Store once before, but they did some pretty cool things since the last time I was there. They added a bunch of superheroes, Star Wars stuff, and a candy band.

According to their Facebook page, Jim's Apple Farm is actually how the now huge candy store got its start. It is located in Jordan, MN and you can't miss it. It is a huge yellow building.

Even though candy is mentioned in the name, they have a little bit of everything. They have fresh baked pies and cookies and fudge. We walked in and it smelled amazing!

They also have the largest selection of sodas! Then there is chocolate and taffy and gummies and chips and puzzles and games. So much stuff!

They even have a Zoltar machine like in the movie, Big. I had to check that out. He told me the only helping hand is at the end of my arm. Gee, thanks Zoltar.

There were even crickets and worms! Not gummy worms, but actual worms.

They also have candy from all over the world!

The store is seasonal, however. November is their last month of operation for the season.

Gallery Credit: Natasha