Ida Grove's Byron Godbersen: Iowa Time Machine May 11, 2003

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On May 11, 2003, visionary architect and innovator Byron Godbersen passed away. The man behind Ida Grove’s iconic castle-themed buildings, Godbersen founded CEO Midwest Industries and helped transform a small-town manufacturing company into a thriving business producing farm and marine equipment.

The most notable remainder of Godbersen’s legacy is the castle architecture still evident in Ida Grove today. However, Byron’s creativity wasn’t limited to buildings. He spearheaded the creation of Lake LaJune, a private eight-acre lake named after his wife that became a centerpiece for marine demonstrations and research. 

Alongside his employees, Byron built a half-scale replica of the HMS Bounty on the lake, a remarkable feat that connected Ida Grove to nautical history in a truly imaginative way. His vision also extended to community development, including the construction of Courier Square, Oak Grove Plaza, and the beloved Skate Palace roller rink, which he generously donated to the American Legion.

Beyond business and architecture, Byron was an innovator with over 50 patents and a pioneer in the model airplane world through his company, Byron Originals, which launched the renowned Aviation Expo in Ida Grove. He received numerous honors, including Iowa and National Small Businessman of the Year and induction into the Iowa Inventors’ Hall of Fame. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar