Whiterock Conservancy Celebration Commemorates Impact Of Russian Premier’s Visit 60 Years Ago

This weekend marks the 60^th anniversary of a meeting in Coon Rapids that was followed by the entire world. In September of 1959, the Premier of the Soviet Union, Nikita Khrushchev, accepted an invitation from Roswell Garst to discover the technological advancements being made with hybrid seed corn and how the crop was used to feed cattle in the United States. The invitation was extended after Garst had made a visit to Russia, all of this taking place as the intensity of the Cold War rose. Executive Director of Whiterock Conservancy, Dan Gudahl, says this was an extremely impactful event for Coon Rapids—Iowa and the nation as a whole.

This coming Saturday, Sept 28, there will be an all-day event to commemorate that visit that will also include a dedication and a tribute to another Coon Rapids native.

Gudahl says this statue really speaks to what Garst was trying to do with the reciprocal relationship with Khrushchev; using corn as a weapon of peace instead of as a weapon of war. He says it was a way to share our technologies so people could have full bellies in other countries. A very special guest speaker is also scheduled for Saturday afternoon.

Roswell’s granddaughter, Liz Garst, may also be present to share what the experience was like for her in 1959. The day includes a lunch, available for a free-will donation, and an agricultural tour. They are asking that people RSVP for both of these. There will also be an open house and tours of the recently renovated Garst farmhouse.