Geo Facts Rockies and Great Plains

Welcome to the Geotoys State Facts page for our Rockies and Great Plains GeoPuzzle.

Here we’ll explore: 

  • State Capitals
  • State birds and flowers (you’ll see them on your map)
  • Animals and plants that live in the state
  • National Parks Services locations within the state
  • AND share information on “easter eggs” you may have spotted as you pieced your map together.

Let’s go!

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Idaho

Capital: Boise

Established as the state capital in 1865, Boise is the largest city in Idaho and serves as its political and cultural hub.

State Bird: The Mountain Bluebird 

The Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides) was designated as Idaho's state bird in 1931. Known for its vibrant sky-blue plumage, this bird inhabits open grasslands and mountainous regions across the state.

State Flower: The Syringa

The Syringa (Philadelphus lewisii), also known as mock orange, was adopted as the state flower in 1931. This fragrant, white-flowered shrub thrives in Idaho's open forests and along streams, typically blooming in late spring to early summer.

Plants & Animals

Idaho's diverse ecosystems range from prairies to mountainous regions, supporting approximately 3,000 native plant species. Characteristic evergreens include Douglas fir and western white pine (the state tree). The state's varied habitats also support a rich array of wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs.

Mammals such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and red foxes are common. Bird species include the mountain bluebird, bald eagle, and various migratory waterfowl. Idaho's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like cutthroat trout (the state fish) and bass.

NPS Sites

Yellowstone National Park
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
City of Rocks National Reserve
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Nez Perce National Historical Park
Minidoka National Historic Site

Easter eggs: Shoshone Falls, The Canadian Lynx and The Idaho Potato

Shoshone Falls, often called the "Niagara of the West," is a breathtaking natural wonder on the Snake River in southern Idaho, standing 212 feet tall—higher than Niagara Falls itself. This majestic cascade showcases Idaho's rugged beauty and played a key role in the region's history, serving as a landmark along the Oregon Trail and a vital part of the state's irrigation development.

The Canadian lynx, a stealthy, snow-loving wildcat, thrives in Idaho's dense northern forests, using its large, furry paws like natural snowshoes to hunt snowshoe hares. As a key species in Idaho's wilderness, its presence reflects the health of the state's high-elevation ecosystems.

The Idaho Potato, renowned for its rich flavor and fluffy texture, thrives in Idaho's unique combination of volcanic soil, climate, and irrigation from the Snake River. As a symbol of the state’s agricultural heritage, it has made Idaho the top potato producer in the U.S., fueling both local pride and global recognition.

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Montana

State Capitol: Helena

Established as the state capital in 1875, Helena is nestled between the Big Belt and Elkhorn Mountains.

State Bird: The Western Meadowlark

The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) was designated as Montana's state bird in 1931. Known for its distinctive, melodic song, this bird inhabits open fields and prairies across the state.

State Flower: The Bitterroot

The Bitterroot (Lewisia rediviva), adopted as the state flower in 1895, is a resilient perennial plant with vibrant pink blossoms, native to Montana's rocky soils.

Plants & Animals

Montana's ecosystems range from prairies to mountainous regions, supporting a wide variety of plant & animal life. The Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa), designated as the state tree, is prevalent in Montana's forests and is known for its tall stature and distinctive orange-brown bark. Other common tree species include Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and quaking aspen. The state's prairies are home to native grasses and wildflowers, while wetlands support species like cattails and sedges.

Mammals such as grizzly bears, elk, and bighorn sheep are common. Bird species include the western meadowlark, bald eagle, and various migratory waterfowl. Montana's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like the blackspotted cutthroat trout, the state fish.

NPS Sites

Glacier National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Big Hole National Battlefield
Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
Nez Perce National Historical Park
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Easter Eggs: Glacier National Park, Little Big Horn Monument & Museum of the Rockies

Glacier National Park, located in northwestern Montana along the Canadian border, is a stunning wilderness of rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and over 700 miles of trails. Known as the "Crown of the Continent," it protects diverse wildlife and remnants of ancient glaciers, making it one of Montana’s most iconic natural treasures.

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in southeastern Montana commemorates the 1876 battle where Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors defeated Lt. Col. George Custer and the 7th Cavalry. This sacred site honors both Native American warriors and U.S. soldiers, preserving the history of one of Montana’s most pivotal conflicts.

The Museum of the Rockies, located in Bozeman, Montana, is world-renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, including some of the best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex specimens. As part of Montana State University, it showcases the state's rich prehistoric past while also featuring exhibits on the region's Native American history and pioneer heritage.

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North Dakota

State Capitol: Bismarck

Established as the state capital in 1883, Bismarck is situated along the Missouri River and serves as North Dakota's political and economic center. 

State Bird: The Western Meadowlark

The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) was designated as North Dakota's state bird in 1947. Known for its distinctive, melodic song, this bird inhabits open fields and prairies across the state.

State Flower: The Wild Prairie Rose

The Wild Prairie Rose (Rosa arkansana), adopted as the state flower in 1907, is notable for its delicate pink petals and is commonly found in North Dakota's meadows and along roadsides.

Plants & Animals

North Dakota's ecosystems encompass prairies, wetlands, and forests. The American Elm (Ulmus americana), designated as the state tree in 1947, is prevalent in North Dakota's landscapes and is known for its broad canopy and resilience. Other common plant species include western wheatgrass, the state grass, and a variety of wildflowers such as coneflowers and goldenrods.

Mammals such as white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, and coyotes are common. Bird species include the western meadowlark, bald eagle, and various migratory waterfowl. North Dakota's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like the northern pike, the state fish, and walleye.

NPS SItes

Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
North Country National Scenic Trail
Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Easter eggs: The World's Largest Buffalo Statue and Fargo Air Museum

The World's Largest Buffalo Statue, standing 26 feet tall in Jamestown, North Dakota, symbolizes the state’s deep connection to the American bison, which once roamed the Great Plains in massive herds. Overlooking the North American Bison Discovery Center, this iconic landmark celebrates North Dakota’s wildlife heritage and the successful conservation efforts to restore bison populations.

The Fargo Air Museum, located in Fargo, North Dakota, showcases a diverse collection of historic and modern aircraft, from World War II warbirds to cutting-edge aviation technology. As a hub for aviation education in North Dakota, it preserves the state's rich flying history and inspires future pilots and engineers.

 

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Wyoming

State Capitol: Cheyenne

Established as the state capital in 1869, Cheyenne is Wyoming's largest city and serves as its political and cultural hub. 

State Bird: The Western Meadowlark

The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) was designated as Wyoming's state bird in 1927. Known for its distinctive, melodic song, this bird inhabits open fields and prairies across the state.

State Flower: The Indian Paintbrush

The Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja linariaefolia), adopted as the state flower in 1917, is notable for its vibrant red-orange bracts and thrives in Wyoming's dry, open environments.

Plants & Animals

Wyoming's ecosystems range from prairies to mountainous regions, supporting a wide variety of plant life. The Plains Cottonwood (Populus sargentii), designated as the state tree in 1961, is prevalent along rivers and streams, providing essential habitat for wildlife. Other common plant species include sagebrush, various grasses, and wildflowers adapted to the state's semi-arid climate.

Mammals such as bison, pronghorn antelope, and elk are common. Bird species include the western meadowlark, bald eagle, and various migratory waterfowl. Wyoming's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like the cutthroat trout, the state fish.

NPS Sites

Yellowstone National Park
Grand Teton National Park
Devils Tower National Monument
Fossil Butte National Monument
Fort Laramie National Historic Site
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway

Easter eggs: World's Largest Rodeo & Old Faithful Geyser

The World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo, known as Cheyenne Frontier Days, takes place annually in Cheyenne, Wyoming, celebrating the state’s deep cowboy heritage with thrilling rodeo events, parades, and Western traditions. Since 1897, this iconic Wyoming event has drawn top rodeo athletes and visitors from around the world, earning its nickname as the “Daddy of ’em All.”

Old Faithful Geyser, located in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, is famous for its highly predictable eruptions, shooting boiling water up to 180 feet roughly every 90 minutes. As one of the park’s most iconic features, it highlights Wyoming’s unique geothermal activity and the vast volcanic forces beneath Yellowstone.

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South Dakota

State Capitol: Pierre

Established as the state capital in 1889, Pierre is centrally located along the Missouri River. 

State Bird: The Ring-necked Pheasant

The Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) was designated as South Dakota's state bird in 1943. Introduced to the state in the early 20th century, this colorful bird has become synonymous with South Dakota's hunting heritage.

State Flower: The American Pasque Flower

The American Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla hirsutissima), adopted as the state flower in 1903, is among the first wildflowers to bloom in spring, symbolizing the state's natural beauty and resilience.

Plants & Animals:

South Dakota's diverse ecosystems range from prairies to forests. The Black Hills Spruce (Picea glauca var. densata), designated as the state tree, is native to the Black Hills region and is known for its dense, dark green foliage. The state's prairies are adorned with native grasses and wildflowers, including bluestem, switchgrass, and coneflowers.

The state's varied habitats support a wide range of wildlife. Mammals such as coyotes, white-tailed deer, and bison are common. Bird species include the ring-necked pheasant, western meadowlark, and various migratory waterfowl. South Dakota's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like walleye and northern pike.

NPS Sites

Badlands National Park
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Wind Cave National Park
Jewel Cave National Monument
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
Missouri National Recreational River

Easter eggs: Dignity of Earth and Sky & Mount Rushmore

The Dignity of Earth and Sky statue, standing 50 feet tall in Chamberlain, South Dakota, honors the strength and culture of Native American women, particularly of the Lakota and Dakota Sioux. Overlooking the Missouri River, this stunning stainless-steel sculpture reflects South Dakota’s deep Indigenous heritage and serves as a symbol of pride and resilience.

Mount Rushmore, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, features the 60-foot-tall faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln, symbolizing the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States. As one of South Dakota’s most famous landmarks, it attracts millions of visitors each year, showcasing the state’s role in American history and national identity.

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Nebraska

State Capitol: Lincoln

Established as the state capital in 1867, Lincoln is Nebraska's second-largest city and serves as its political and cultural hub. 

State Bird: The Western Meadowlark

The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) was designated as Nebraska's state bird in 1929. Known for its distinctive, melodic song, this bird inhabits open fields and prairies across the state.

State Flower: The Goldenrod

The Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea), adopted as the state flower in 1895, is notable for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and thrive in Nebraska's prairies and meadows.

Plants & Animals:

Nebraska's ecosystems range from prairies to woodlands. The Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides), designated as the state tree, is commonly found along rivers and streams, providing essential habitat for wildlife. The state's prairies are adorned with native grasses such as little bluestem and switchgrass, along with wildflowers like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.

Mammals such as white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and badgers are common. Bird species include the western meadowlark, mourning dove, and barn swallow. Nebraska's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like channel catfish, the state fish, and various species of trout and perch.

NPS SItes:

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Homestead National Historical Park
Missouri National Recreational River
Niobrara National Scenic River
Scotts Bluff National Monument

Easter eggs: Carhenge, Great Platte Archway & Homestead National Historical Monument

Carhenge, located near Alliance, Nebraska, is a quirky roadside attraction that replicates England’s Stonehenge using vintage cars painted gray and arranged in a circular formation. This unique monument reflects Nebraska’s creative spirit and has become a beloved landmark celebrating both classic automobiles and artistic ingenuity.

The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, commonly known as The Archway, spans Interstate 80 near Kearney, Nebraska, serving as a unique museum that chronicles 170 years of westward expansion along the historic Great Platte River Road. This impressive structure celebrates Nebraska's pivotal role in American history, highlighting trails like the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails, as well as the development of the Lincoln Highway and modern I-80.

The Homestead National Historical Park, located near Beatrice, Nebraska, commemorates the Homestead Act of 1862, which offered land to settlers and played a key role in shaping the American frontier. As a tribute to Nebraska’s pioneering spirit, the site preserves historic homesteads, prairie landscapes, and stories of those who built a new life on the Great Plains.

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Nevada

State Capitol: Carson City

Established as the state capital in 1864, Carson City is located in western Nevada near Lake Tahoe. 

State Bird: The Mountain Bluebird

The Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides) was designated as Nevada's state bird in 1967. Known for its vibrant blue plumage, this bird inhabits open country and mountainous regions across the state.

State Flower: The Sagebrush

The Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), adopted as the state flower in 1917, is a hardy shrub prevalent throughout Nevada's arid landscapes, providing essential habitat and food for various wildlife species.

Plants & Animals

Nevada's ecosystems range from desert basins to alpine meadows. The state tree, the Single-Leaf Piñon (Pinus monophylla), designated in 1953, is common in Nevada's high desert regions and produces edible pine nuts. In 1987, the Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva), known for its remarkable longevity, was also designated as a state tree. The state's flora includes Joshua trees, creosote bushes, and a variety of cacti adapted to arid conditions.

The Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni), designated as the state animal in 1973, is well-adapted to the rugged desert mountains. Other notable species include the pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and various reptiles like the desert tortoise. Bird species such as the mountain bluebird, sage grouse, and red-tailed hawk are commonly observed. Nevada's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi), the state fish. 

NPS Sites:

Great Basin National Park
Death Valley National Park
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Easter eggs: Sand Harbor in Lake Tahoe, "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" Sign & Hoover Dam

Sand Harbor, located on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada, is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning granite rock formations. As part of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, it offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor recreation, and serves as a premier venue for the annual Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival.

The "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign, standing at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, has been an iconic symbol of Nevada’s entertainment capital since 1959. Recognized worldwide, this neon landmark represents the city’s vibrant nightlife, history, and status as a top tourist destination.

Hoover Dam, straddling the Nevada-Arizona border on the Colorado River, is a marvel of engineering that provides hydroelectric power, flood control, and water supply to the Southwest. As one of Nevada’s most famous landmarks, this massive structure showcases the state’s role in harnessing natural resources to support regional growth and development.

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Utah

State Capitol: Salt Lake City

Established as the state capital in 1856, Salt Lake City is Utah's largest city and serves as its political, cultural, and economic hub. 

State Bird: The California Gull

The California Gull (Larus californicus) was designated as Utah's state bird in 1955. This species is historically significant for assisting early settlers by consuming swarms of crickets that threatened crops.

State Flower: The Sego Lily

The Sego Lily (Calochortus nuttallii), adopted as the state flower in 1911, is noted for its delicate white petals and was a vital food source for Native Americans and early pioneers during times of scarcity.

Plants & Animals

Utah's ecosystems range from arid deserts to alpine forests. The Blue Spruce (Picea pungens), designated as the state tree, thrives in the state's mountainous regions. The state is also home to the Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides), known for its vibrant fall colors and distinctive trembling leaves. Wildflowers such as the Indian paintbrush and sweet William add splashes of color to the landscape. 

The Rocky Mountain Elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni), designated as the state animal, inhabits the state's forests and grasslands. Bird species include the California gull, American robin, and peregrine falcon. Reptiles such as the Gila monster, designated as the state reptile in 2019, can be found in the southwestern regions. Aquatic species like the Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii utah), the state fish, inhabit Utah's rivers and lakes.

NPS Sites

Arches National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Zion National Park
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Natural Bridges National Monument
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Hovenweep National Monument
Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Easter eggs: Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon & Utah State Capitol

Arches National Park, located in eastern Utah, is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch, which has become a symbol of the state. This breathtaking landscape showcases Utah’s unique geology, shaped by millions of years of erosion, making it one of the most stunning desert parks in the U.S.

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is famous for its otherworldly landscape filled with thousands of hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires formed by erosion. As one of Utah’s most unique natural wonders, it offers breathtaking views, vibrant red and orange rock formations, and some of the clearest night skies in the country.

The Utah State Capitol, perched on a hill overlooking Salt Lake City, is a stunning neoclassical building that has housed the state’s government since 1916. As a symbol of Utah’s political and cultural heritage, it offers panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains and serves as a hub for legislative and historical events.

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Colorado

State Capitol: Denver

Established as the state capital in 1876, Denver is Colorado's largest city and serves as its political, cultural, and economic hub. The Colorado State Capitol, completed in 1908, features a distinctive gold-plated dome and offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.

State Bird: The Lark Bunting

The Lark Bunting (Calamospiza melanocorys) was designated as Colorado's state bird in 1931. Known for its striking black and white plumage during the breeding season, this songbird inhabits the grasslands and prairies of the state.

State Flower: The Rocky Mountain Columbine

The Rocky Mountain Columbine (Aquilegia caerulea), adopted as the state flower in 1899, is noted for its delicate blue and white petals. This wildflower thrives in Colorado's mountainous regions and is a symbol of the state's natural beauty. 

Plants & Animals

Colorado's ecosystems range from arid plains to alpine tundra. The Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens), designated as the state tree, is native to the Rocky Mountains and is valued for its symmetrical form and blue-green needles. The state's wildflower meadows are adorned with species like Indian Paintbrush, Lupine, and Sunflowers, contributing to the vibrant summer landscapes.

The Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis), designated as the state animal, is renowned for its impressive curved horns and agility in mountainous terrains. Bird species include the Lark Bunting, Mountain Bluebird, and Bald Eagle. Colorado's rivers and lakes are home to fish species like the Greenback Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias), the state fish, which is native to the South Platte River basin.

NPS Sites

Rocky Mountain National Park
Mesa Verde National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Amache National Historic Site
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Dinosaur National Monument
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site
Colorado National Monument

Easter eggs: Garden of the Gods, Denver Art Museum & Great Sand Dunes National Park

Garden of the Gods, located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a stunning natural landmark known for its towering red rock formations shaped by millions of years of geological activity. As one of Colorado’s most famous outdoor attractions, it showcases the state's unique geology and offers hiking, rock climbing, and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak.

The Denver Art Museum, located in the heart of Denver, Colorado, is famous for its bold architecture and diverse art collections, including one of the largest displays of Native American art in the country. As a cultural cornerstone of Colorado, it showcases everything from Western masterpieces to contemporary works, inspiring creativity and appreciation for the arts.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in southern Colorado, is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising over 750 feet against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As one of Colorado’s most unique landscapes, it offers visitors a chance to explore vast dunes, alpine forests, and diverse ecosystems shaped by wind and water.

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Kansas

State Capitol: Topeka

Established as the state capital in 1861, Topeka is located along the Kansas River in the northeastern part of the state. 

State Bird: The Western Meadowlark

The Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) was designated as Kansas's state bird in 1937. Known for its bright yellow throat and melodious song, this bird is commonly found in open grasslands and prairies across the state.

State Flower: The Wild Native Sunflower

The Wild Native Sunflower (Helianthus annuus), adopted as the state flower in 1903, is prevalent throughout Kansas. Its bright yellow petals and hearty nature symbolize the state's agricultural roots and frontier spirit.

Plants & Animals

Kansas's diverse plant life ranges from tallgrass prairies in the east to shortgrass plains in the west. The Plains Cottonwood (Populus deltoides), designated as the state tree in 1937, thrives along rivers and streams, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. Wildflowers such as the wild daisy, ivy-leaved morning glory, and smallflower verbena add vibrant colors to the landscape.

The state's varied habitats support a wide range of wildlife. Mammals include the American bison, white-tailed deer, and black-tailed jackrabbit. Bird species such as the western meadowlark, prairie chicken, and various migratory waterfowl are commonly observed. Reptiles like the ornate box turtle, designated as the state reptile, inhabit the grasslands and woodlands. Aquatic species in Kansas's rivers and lakes include catfish, bass, and crappie. 

NPS Sites

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Fort Larned National Historic Site
Fort Scott National Historic Site
Nicodemus National Historic Site
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
California National Historic Trail
Oregon National Historic Trail
Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Easter eggs: Keeper of the Plains & Amelia Earhart

The Keeper of the Plains, a 44-foot-tall steel statue in Wichita, Kansas, stands at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers, honoring the region’s Native American heritage. As one of Kansas’ most iconic landmarks, it symbolizes the spiritual and cultural significance of the Plains tribes and is illuminated dramatically each evening with a "Ring of Fire" display.

Amelia Earhart, born in Atchison, Kansas, was a pioneering aviator who became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, inspiring generations with her fearless spirit. As one of Kansas’ most famous historical figures, her legacy is preserved at the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, celebrating her contributions to aviation and women’s history.

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