The State Historical Society of Iowa is accepting nominations for its Excellence in Iowa History Awards, which honor individuals, organizations and communities that made outstanding contributions to Iowa history this year. Awards recognize outstanding publications, local history initiatives and major achievements in the state’s history. Nominations for the Shambaugh Award for books are due Jan. 2. All other nominations are due Feb. 1. The award categories:

• The Benjamin F. Shambaugh Award recognizes the author of the most significant book published about Iowa history during the previous calendar year.
• The Dorothy Schwieder Excellence in Research Award recognizes on a biennial basis the most significant research and contribution to the body of knowledge in Iowa history and is the top research and writing award given by the board.
• The William J. Petersen and Edgar R. Harlan Award recognizes an individual, group or organization that has made significant long-term or continuing contributions to Iowa history.
• The Loren Horton Community History Award goes to the best project that increases awareness and participation in Iowa history on a local level.
• The George Mills and Louise Noun Award recognizes the author of the most significant article on an Iowa history topic published in a popular history periodical during the previous calendar year.
• The Mildred Throne and Charles Aldrich Award is given to the author of the most significant article on Iowa history in a professional history journal during the previous calendar year.
• The Excellence in Archaeology and Historic Preservation Award recognizes the best archaeology or historic preservation project at the local or state level.