The Great Pyramids of Iowa — built in 1939 of sandstone and cement, they were meant to be the final resting spot of Axel Peterson, a local publisher and fan of Egyptian history.
Located at Hickory Grove Cemetery in the unincorporated town of Avery, Iowa (right next to Albia and about an hour and twenty minutes southeast of Des Moines unless your kids need to stop and go potty), these three pyramids — which are a small scale, two 10 feet and the tallest measuring 14 feet tall — dimension accurate replica of the pyramids of Giza.
Peterson actually created these to be tombs for him and his best friend. The larger of the three structures was intended for him. His wishes for where he will be laid to rest were not respected. The historian was buried in another town.
There’s no official reason as to why this man’s last requests were not granted. What we do know though is that all three of these tombs remain empty to this day. — Avery Pyramids
Unfortunately, Peterson’s final wish wasn’t granted and he was buried in the town over. The tomb laid empty and once laid open for all to see, now it has been locked by both iron and land and makes for a lovely Sunday road trip with the family.
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