In terms of historical events in Iowa during the early 20th
century, what better coverage could be given than the book, Was This Heaven?. Lyell D. Henry, Jr. has done an exquisite job
of depicting pioneer life, and the effect that the implementation of the
postcard had on life in Iowa. It is very admirable what input David A. Wilson
was able to contribute to this endeavor and as Lyell D. Henry states, “this is
David A. Wilson’s book as much as it is mine”. In an attempt to track down
David A. Wilson to see if his collection still exists, in a phone call on
December 21st, 2013, Lyell Henry acknowledged that Wilson was
deceased. While I did not proceed to inquire if there was knowledge of the
collection’s current status, one’s curiosity might stretch to the State
Historical Society of Iowa’s collection for comparison. The reading of this
book, I believe, will bring the viewer as much enjoyment
as it did to Lyell D. Henry, Jr. These depictions are phenomenal pieces of Iowa
history. There are so many great images, how can I pick a favorite? Would it be
the Rural Free Delivery cart seen on page 12, or the Penitentiary convicts on
page 40, or how about the vintage image of the Cyclones versus the Hawkeyes on
page 222? Take a look and pick your favorite!