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There’s something special about a small-town market that goes beyond shopping, it’s about connection, pride, and community. At this year’s Dows Market on Main, you’ll find a heartfelt thread woven throughout the event: a celebration of patriotism, service, and the people who make our communities strong.
Whether you’re looking for meaningful décor, ways to give back, or simply want to soak in the spirit of it all, here are a few patriotic highlights you won’t want to miss.
Handcrafted Pride: Flags and More by Maynard Agena
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One of the most striking displays you’ll come across is from a talented local craftsman behind Flags and More. His handcrafted wooden American flags are truly something to see in person.
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Each piece is made with care, showcasing the beauty of the wood grain along with the bold, recognizable design of the American flag. These aren’t just decorations, they’re statement pieces that reflect pride, craftsmanship, and respect.
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While he may not have a social media presence, his work speaks volumes. If you saw our recent Facebook Reel, you already know just how stunning these pieces are. Be sure to stop by and take a closer look...you might just find the perfect addition to your home.
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Giving Back: Support Our Veterans Ride
We’re also honored to have volunteers from Support Our Veterans Ride at the market. This incredible organization is dedicated to raising funds that directly benefit veterans and they welcome participants from all walks of life.
Despite the name, you don’t need a motorcycle to join the ride...cars, trucks, and other vehicles are all welcome. It’s about coming together for a great cause.
🗓 Upcoming Ride: Sunday, August 16
📱 Find them on Facebook: SOVR – Support Our Veterans Ride
📧 Email: vetsride2023@gmail.com
Stop by their booth at the market to learn more, ask questions, and find out how you can get involved.
A Must-See: The Wright County Freedom Rock
If you’re exploring the area during the market, consider making a stop at the Wright County Freedom Rock. Part of a larger movement across Iowa, these massive painted rocks serve as powerful tributes to veterans and military history.
Each county’s rock features unique artwork, often honoring different branches of the military or specific moments in history. They’ve become a meaningful travel destination for many, with people visiting multiple Freedom Rocks across the state. Get all the deatails HERE!
Best of all, it’s completely free to visit and a wonderful way to reflect, learn, and pay tribute.
Community Tradition: American Legion Fish Fry
And if you’ve been following along, you already know this... but it’s worth repeating!
Just across the street from the market, the local American Legion will be hosting their Fish Fry from 4–7 PM. It’s a freewill offering meal featuring:
- Fish (of course!)
- Chicken strips upon request
- Salads, coleslaw, and desserts
- Coffee, milk, and great company
It’s the perfect way to end your market day: good food, friendly faces, and a chance to support a longstanding community tradition. Read more in THIS BLOG POST or follow the event of FaceBook HERE!
More Than a Market
Dows Market on Main isn’t just about what you can buy, it’s about what you can experience. From handcrafted flags to opportunities to support veterans, this market is filled with meaningful moments that remind us what community is all about.
So come for the shopping, stay for the stories, and take a little piece of that spirit home with you.
From the Heart
This part of the market, and this post, feels especially personal to both Shannon and Hayley.
Shannon's dad - Steve Elliott - served in the Vietnam War around 1970, shortly after graduating from Iowa Central Community College with a degree in mechanics. If you're from the Dows community, you might know his little sister, Diane, his nephew JC, and his neices Jennifer and Julie.
These photos are a glimpse into that time in his life...a time that shaped who he was in ways Shannon's still learning and understanding. He wasn't one to talk about his time in the service.
He passed away at 52 years of age in 2001, due to kidney failure. Before his death he worked as Head of Maintenace at Tassler Pallet in Webster City for over 22 years. He enjoyed his career and took pride in his work. He was a good man and always provided for his family.
Hayley's dad, William 'Bill' Clayton, served in the U.S. Navy from May of 1973 to May of 1977. He served as an Air Traffic Controller in the tower at Alameda Naval Base and for 13 months on the USS Enterprise.
An avid Iowa Hawkeye fan, Bill was the guy you would gravitate towards whenever you entered a room. He was a gifted conversationalist with an outgoing personality, something Hayley did not inherit naturally, but strives to improve upon as time goes by. Co-hosting this Market is a step in the right direction.
After serving in the Navy, Bill came home to raise a family with his wife, Sherry, and together they had 3 girls. He was an active member of the Dows community, serving on the School Board for several years, and some of you may remember the 'Music Man' musical the community put on in 1987 where he played a member of the 'Barber Shop Quartet.'
Bill worked as a manager of Quick Trip (QT) convenience stores in both Ames and Boone for 17 years before he passed away in a car accident in 1994 at only 44 years of age.
When we see things like the handcrafted flags, the Freedom Rock, or organizations supporting veterans, it’s not just something we appreciate, it’s something we feel.
So as you walk through the market, we hope you take a moment, not just to look, but to reflect. Behind every flag, every tribute, and every act of support, there are real people and real stories.
These just happens to be ours. We would love to know yours!
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