The Des Moines County Historical Society (DMCHS) kicked off 2025 with a series of engaging events and exciting announcements, as detailed in their January newsletter. From festive celebrations to ambitious restoration projects, the community is buzzing with enthusiasm for preserving and celebrating local history.
A Very Heritage Christmas: A Festive Throwback
On December 7th, the Heritage Center hosted “A Very Heritage Christmas,” transporting attendees back in time with silent film performances. The audience’s reactions—cheering heroes, booing villains, and gasping at dramatic moments—added to the nostalgic atmosphere. The event also featured a silent auction, “Adopt-an-Artifact,” where patrons could contribute to the preservation of specific items, such as archival materials and the historic Jewel Water Fountain. The community’s support was evident, highlighting a collective commitment to preserving local heritage.
Restoration Projects: Breathing New Life into Historic Sites
DMCHS is embarking on a significant restoration of the Garrett-Phelps House, aiming to modernize and reinterpret its exhibitions. This initiative coincides with the house’s 175th anniversary, or “demisemiseptcentennial.” The $2 million project aspires to transform the site into a permanent museum, honoring the histories of the Garrett and Phelps families and serving as a gateway to the Snake Alley district. This endeavor underscores the society’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing Burlington’s historical landmarks.
Upcoming Events: Engaging the Community
DMCHS has a lineup of events designed to immerse the community in local history:
- Sounds of the Past – Drinking Songs: On Saturday, January 18, from 10 am to 12 pm, Executive Director Colton Overton will perform ragtime pieces on the historic Martin Bruhl piano in the Heritage Center’s atrium. Attendees can also enjoy demonstrations of the Edison phonograph.
- Historic Newspaper Reading: Every Wednesday in January and February, from 10 to 11 am, participants can delve into historical newspapers, discussing past events and their relevance today. These sessions take place in the Bart Howard Lounge.
- Burlington History Club: Following the newspaper readings, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, this club offers a platform for history enthusiasts to discuss research ideas and share insights about Des Moines County’s rich past.
Get Involved
DMCHS invites community members to participate in these events and support ongoing projects. For more information or to get involved, contact the Heritage Center at (319) 752-7449 or email Executive Director Colton Overton at Coltonn@dmchs.org.