A soulful connection at Fort Madison

People visit Fort Madison for all kinds of reasons — to watch the trains, follow the Great River Road, attend the Tri-State Rodeo, or dive into our many local festivals. But this week, I’d love to share a reason that’s a little more unexpected — and a lot more romantic.
Graham, from Scotland, and Jade, from Wales, met five years ago on a train along the east coast of the United States. It was one of those rare, serendipitous moments — an instant connection. After returning home, they stayed in touch and soon began a long-distance relationship.
What brought them to Fort Madison? A reading by Jade’s mother revealed they share something called a magnetic soul point — a spiritual connection to a specific place. Surprisingly, that point was located just across the Mississippi River from our town!

Curious and hopeful, they made the journey. After arriving in Chicago, they boarded Amtrak and rolled into Fort Madison. They spent their days biking around town, exploring the area, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the river. By Friday night, they had made new friends who invited them across the river to The Landing in Dallas City. As the sun set, they danced by the water — the perfect end to a soulful adventure.
We’re thrilled Graham and Jade found their Fort Madison. And yes — I'm already helping them plan their next visit, maybe even during the Tri-State Rodeo. With any luck, they’ll fall even more in love — with each other and our community.
Chi Eastin is the Director of the Fort Madison Tourism Board and a new contributor to Pen City Current.