Around the nation and the world
- 1930, To combat the growing depression, President Herbert Hoover asks the U.S. Congress to pass a $150 million public works project to increase employment and economic activity.
- 1931, The Star-Spangled Banner, by Francis Scott Key, is approved by President Hoover and Congress as the national anthem.
- 1933, The 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is passed, ending prohibition.
- 1937, The Golden Gate Bridge opens.
- 1938, The National Minimum Wage is signed into law with a minimum wage of $0.25.
Around campus
- 1930, During the depressions of the Thirties, the civil engineering instruction staff dropped to six.
- 1931, Jim Wilson, former ISC English professor, wins $100 from the Iowa State Club of Chicago for penning “The Bells of Iowa State.”
- 1935, Two swans, Sir Lancelot and Elaine, are presented to the college by the VEISHEA Central Committee during VEISHEA.
- 1937, The oval shaped fountain in front of the Memorial Union is presented to the University.
- 1938, Veenker Golf Course, the college golf course, is constructed with WPA and Athletic Council funds at a cost of $122,373.
- 1939, The first Civil Engineering staff member with primary interests in soil mechanics was Harland Winn during 1939-40.
- 1939, The north section of Friley Hall is built at a cost of $198,233, and connects with Hughes Hall, built in 1927. Eventual additions in 1942, 1951, and 1954 make it the highest-occupancy residence hall with approximately 1,400 students. A permanent house system is implemented, with names honoring deceased Iowa State staff members.