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Ames, Iowa

Located in Story County, Iowa, Ames was established in 1864. Iowa State University is one of the first land-grant universities. The USDA's National Animal Disease Center is in Ames.
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Founded 1864 | Population 67,000 | Peak 67,000 (2024) | County Story County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Ames, Iowa

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1858Iowa State Founded: Iowa State University established.
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1864Railroad Town: Named for congressman Oakes Ames.
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1890Higher Education: Educational institutions helped define Ames's character and economy.
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1990Research Hub: USDA and DOE research centers.
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2010Modern Era: Ames continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1858 Culture
Iowa State Founded
1864 Transport
Railroad Town
1890 Culture
Higher Education
1990 Science
Research Hub
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
Iowa State University is one of the first land-grant universities.
2
The USDA's National Animal Disease Center is in Ames.
3
Classic college town — about half the population is students.
4
Ames is located in Story County, Iowa.
5
Ames was founded in 1864.

Famous People from Ames, Iowa

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Laurel Clark
Astronaut, Physician · Born Mar 10, 1961 · Died Feb 1, 2003 (age 41)
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Harrison Barnes
Basketball Player · Born May 30, 1992 · Age 33
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Evan Stone
Pornographic Actor, Film Actor · Born Jul 18, 1964 · Age 61
PS
Peter Schickele
Writer, Composer · Born Jul 17, 1935 · Died Jan 16, 2024 (age 88)
SP
Sara Paretsky
Writer, Novelist · Born Jun 8, 1947 · Age 78
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