Winneshiek County Freedom Rock is part of the Freedom Rock Tour created by artist Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II to boost tourism and spread a message of thanks to veterans through a unique Freedom Rock in each of Iowa’s 99 counties. Winneshiek County’s rock highlights the county’s Native American heritage and features Chief Winneshiek of the Winnebago Tribe, while also paying tribute to those who protect and serve, including branches of the military, firefighters, emergency medical providers, and law enforcement personnel. The City of Calmar drove the project, submitted its application in 2013, was selected in 2014 as the official site, donated the location, and served as fiscal agent. After an 18-month search, a rock donated by James Gallery was found in Winthrop, Iowa, delivered in April 2015 by Wiltgen Construction, and prepared for painting by Reicks Memorial & Landscaping. Sorensen painted the rock in November 2016, with final touch-ups and sealing completed in the spring of 2017. The project succeeded through broad local participation and in-kind support from businesses, organizations, youth volunteers, and city officials, and even before the painting was finished, the site had become a focal point for community celebrations, Memorial Day observances, and visits by people paying respect to those who protect and serve.