MUSCATINE, Iowa – An iconic Mississippi River island here will be preserved for future generations, thanks to a conservation gift awarded from the Joe W. and Betty L. Rauch Memorial Fund held at the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine, the organization announced Tuesday, Dec. 16.
Calling it “a truly historic act of generosity and environmental stewardship,” the foundation said Towhead Island – a natural landmark in the river’s bend in downtown Muscatine – will be purchased and placed into permanent ownership of the foundation. The gift ensures the island’s preservation and lasting benefit for the Muscatine community, a foundation news release said.
Financial details of the gift were not disclosed. The island first was placed on the real estate market in December of 2023 with a $1.5 million price tag. But in the fall of 2024, a Facebook post by the Armstrong Team at RE / MAX Professionals, located in Muscatine, said the new sale price was $1 million.
Towhead Island is located about 30 miles downstream from the Quad Cities.
