Spring has ushered in a season of renewal and activity at the Des Moines County Historical Society (DMCHS). With restoration projects nearing completion and a robust lineup of events, there’s much to look forward to.
Restoration Milestone: The Stacks Room Illuminated
Significant progress has been made in the restoration of the historic “Stacks Room.” Electricians have successfully rewired the space, bringing its electrical features close to the original factory settings. Thanks to the generous support of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Foundation for Historic Interiors, all the newly installed sconces are now operational, casting a warm glow reminiscent of the early 1900s. This achievement marks a pivotal step toward the room’s full restoration.
Upcoming Events: Snake Alley Days and More
Mark your calendars for the weekend of May 30–31, officially dubbed “Snake Alley Days.” This annual celebration aims to reconnect visitors with various county museums, libraries, and conservation organizations. The festivities will feature new exhibits, refreshments, and kid-friendly activities. Keep an eye on your mail for a flyer or invitation with more details.
Volunteer Opportunities: Welcoming Riverboat Tourists
As early as June 2025, the Viking Mississippi River Excursions will be docking in town. DMCHS is seeking enthusiastic volunteers, including Silver Cord students, to help welcome and guide riverboat tourists. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact the Heritage Center at (319) 752-7449 or email Kay Swanson at kays@dmchs.org to schedule your availability.
Seasonal Openings: Garrett-Phelps House and Crapo Park Log Cabin
In preparation for the upcoming season, DMCHS will be releasing key access and scheduling information for the Garrett-Phelps House and Crapo Park Log Cabin in May. Frequent key holders are encouraged to contact the Heritage Center to arrange a convenient time to pick up their keys.
Sounds of the Past: Musical Journeys Through History
Join Executive Director Colton Overton for the “Sounds of the Past” series, where he performs ragtime pieces on the historic Martin Bruhl piano and demonstrates the Edison phonograph. Upcoming sessions include:
- The Titanic and Other Disaster-Related Music: Saturday, April 19, 10 am–12 pm
- Historic Riverboat Melodies: Saturday, May 17, 10 am–12 pm
These events take place in the Heritage Center’s atrium. Please use the main entrance on the east side at the top of the ramp on Fourth Street. Doors open at 9:45 am.
Weekly Programs: Engaging with Local History
DMCHS offers weekly programs to delve into Des Moines County’s rich history:
- Historic Newspaper Reading: Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and May 7, 14, 21, 28, from 10–11 am. Discuss historical events and their contemporary relevance in the Bart Howard Lounge.
- Burlington History Club: Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and May 7, 14, 21, 28, from 11:30 am–12:30 pm. Share research ideas and explore Des Moines County’s history with fellow enthusiasts.
- SilverCord Walk-In: Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, and May 6, 13, 20, 27, from 4–6 pm. Silver Cord students are welcome to volunteer at the museum and contribute to ongoing projects.
Special Program: Exploring Starr’s Cave
Discover the history and treasures of Starr’s Cave at a special program hosted by DMCHS:
- Starr’s Cave Site History, Stories, and Treasures: Saturday, April 5, 10 am–12 pm, at Starr’s Cave Nature Center, 11627 Starr’s Cave Park Rd., Burlington, IA.
For more information, to volunteer, or to participate in upcoming events, please contact the Heritage Center at (319) 752-7449 or email Executive Director Colton Overton at coltonn@dmchs.org. Stay connected and be a part of preserving Des Moines County’s rich history.