Every box of Cracker Jacks comes with a prize inside. Judging by the number of prizes found in Sac County, Iowa, it is only fitting that the area has grown most of Cracker Jack's popcorn.

The 1908 Chautauqua Pavilion in Sac City is one of the nation's best monuments to the movement Teddy Roosevelt described as "the most American thing in America." After becoming a county in 1851, the area's rich agricultural land attracted many settlers. W.P. Adams acquired the 7,000-acre Wheeler Ranch in 1896 and worked tirelessly to improve plant genetics, animal husbandry, and farm marketing techniques, laying the groundwork for modern farming practices. Profits from farming contributed to the growth of the county's nine incorporated communities, development of commercial and manufacturing districts, investment in cultural resources, and construction of an extensive transportation system.

Fourth-generation Sac County resident Bruce Perry has a long fascination with local history. His collection of historic photographs began as a Cub Scout project; his love of local lore grew while listening to stories told by his parents and grandparents. Perry's training as a classical pianist and conductor inspires attention to detail. Volunteer work in local and state historic preservation is a driving force to share the stories of yesterday and bring them to life for future generations.