Panora, IA, originally known as Panola, is a small city in Guthrie County, Iowa. The town was founded in 1851 by J. Howard Moore and William P. Young. Since then, Panora has played an essential role in the development of Iowa and the United States. Here are seven historical events that traditionally took place near Panora, IA.

1. The Homestead Act of 1862: On May 20, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act of 1862 into law. This act allowed any head of the household, over 21 years old, who had not taken up arms against the U.S. government, to claim up to 160 acres of public lands for farming. Many homesteaders took advantage of this act, and some of them settled in the vicinity of Panora.

2. The Underground Railroad: The Underground Railroad was a network of people who helped slaves escape from the South to freedom in the North. Although Iowa was a free state and didn’t have any slaves, there were still people who used the state as a passage to escape slavery. Many stories tell of the Underground Railroad passing through Guthrie County, not far from Panora.

3. The Civil War: The Civil War was a significant event in the history of the United States. During this time, many men from Panora and Guthrie County enlisted to fight for their country. The local newspaper, The Guthrie County Vedette, reported on the battles, the loss of life, and the wounded soldiers.

4. The Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad: The Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad started operations in 1851, and it was commonly known as the Milwaukee Road. The railway played a significant role in the development of Panora and the surrounding area. It allowed for the quick and easy transport of goods and people to and from the city, which boosted its economy.

5. The Des Moines River Flood of 1851: The Des Moines River is a significant river that flows through Iowa. In 1851, the river flooded, causing severe damage to the towns and cities along its banks. Panora was one of the cities that were impacted by the flood. Although the city was relatively new, the damage was significant.

6. The John Wayne Birthplace: John Wayne, born Marion Robert Morrison, was an American film actor, director, and producer. He was born in Winterset, which is not too far from Panora. The John Wayne Birthplace Museum in Winterset celebrates the life of the famous actor, and it's a popular tourist attraction in the area.

7. The Tipton Riot: The Tipton Riot was an event that took place in 1875 in Tipton, Iowa, not far from Panora. The riot occurred because of a dispute between the railroad workers and the townspeople. The riot led to the deaths of several people, and it caused significant damage to the town.

In conclusion, Panora, IA, has a rich history, from the Homestead Act of 1862 to events that impact the United States as a whole, such as the Civil War. The city played a significant role in the development of the region, and it's an excellent place to learn about the history of Iowa and the United States.