Danish Americans
Evidence of the impact of Danish American culture can be found all across Iowa, wind turbines! Check out these and the contributions that Danes have made to Iowa, including model ships, toys, and your new favorite food, Aebelskiever!
Danish people settled in Iowa long ago. Today, we can explore Danish heritage at the Museum of Danish America, right here in Iowa! What similarities and differences exist between Copenhagen, the capitol of Denmark, and Des Moines, the capitol of Iowa?
From windmills to toys, immigrants from Denmark have contributed a lot more to American culture than you might expect. Join Abby at the Museum of Danish America, right here in Iowa, to learn about the many ways that the Danes have made our state wonderfully unique.
Perhaps the most iconic contribution of Danes to Iowa, windmills can be seen all across the state. For over 150 years, Danes have been using windmills for energy. Even many of the modern turbines we see across Iowa today are still made by Danish companies.
Unlike Iowa, Denmark is surrounded by the sea. Danish immigrants experienced a dramatic geographic change by coming to Iowa, which is surrounded by land. One way that they were able to hold on to their coastal heritage was by making model ships by hand that reminded them of home. This tradition continues in Danish-influenced communities in Iowa even today!
Both in Denmark and in Iowa, Aebleskiver is a special treat. Somewhere between a pancake and a donut, the occasion in which Aebleskiver is enjoyed has changed in America, but the preparation remains a tradition.
