The "John Fletcher Lacey Memorial," unveiled in 2019 at Lacey State Park in Keosauqua, Iowa, honors the legacy of one of Iowa's most influential historical figures. Standing at 30 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 15 inches deep, this 1.33 life-size bronze bust captures the enduring spirit of John Fletcher Lacey, a Civil War soldier, lawyer, and prominent Iowa statesman. Lacey served as a six-term U.S. Representative for Iowa’s 6th district and is widely regarded as the “Father of American Conservation” for his groundbreaking work in environmental preservation.
Lacey dedicated over 25 years of his life to advancing conservation efforts through the introduction and support of pivotal federal legislation, including the Forest Reserve Act, the Yellowstone Protective Act, the Lacey Bird Act, and the Antiquities Act. These laws paved the way for the establishment of national parks and protected wildlife, making a lasting impact on the United States' environmental policy.
