Estherville Meteorite Historical Marker, located in Emmet County, Iowa, tells an extraordinary tale of cosmic impact that has left its mark on the regions history and scientific understanding. This meteorite event took place on May 10, 1879, when a massive celestial body weighing 455 pounds plummeted to Earth just a few miles north of Estherville. The impact was so powerful that it buried the meteorite 15 feet deep, creating a significant crater which is now a cornfield and difficult to distinguish with the naked eye.

The marker, found at the intersection of State Highway 4 and 390th Avenue, provides visitors with fascinating facts about this monumental event. Not only was the Estherville Meteorite the largest meteorite known to have fallen in North America, but it is also one of only seven witnessed mesosiderite falls ever recorded. This makes it a rare and precious find for researchers and enthusiasts alike.

The meteorites unique attributes, such as its unusual features and visible appearance during its passage through the air, are captivating subjects for study. The recovery of a large amount of meteoric material from the area has allowed scientists to reconstruct the impact event with surprising accuracy, providing valuable insights into celestial objects and their interactions with Earths atmosphere.

The Estherville Meteorite Historical Marker is not only an important landmark for those interested in geology and astronomy but also a testament to the forces that have shaped our planet throughout its history. By visiting this site, you can immerse yourself in the story of the meteorite event and appreciate the significance it holds for both the people of Estherville and the scientific community at large.