The Des Moines County Historical Society was formed to communicate to residents and visitors the history and creative spirit of those who have lived in Des Moines County, Iowa and the purpose of its museums and outreach programs is to educate about the people and history of Des Moines County.

The Des Moines County Historical Society will collect items for preservation, documentation, display, and research, which relate specifically to the history of Des Moines County, Iowa: its people, settlement, agriculture, businesses, industries, culture, arts, archaeology, and built environment. By instilling pride in our heritage and fostering an understanding of our past, we will better comprehend the present and our prospects for the future.

The Historical Society currently operates three facilities: the Heritage Center Museum occupying the original Burlington Public Library built in 1898 at 401 N 4th Street, the Garrett-Phelps House at 521 Columbia Street, and the Crapo Park Log Cabin located in historic Crapo Park. All three facilities are in Burlington, IA.