Des Moines County Iowa is a vibrant area with a rich past. Located along abend of the Mississippi River in the southeast portion of the state, the county contains rich farmland and cozy communities where more than 50,000 people reside. The history of this remarkable area is as diverse as the communities that make it up.

The Des Moines County Historical Society maintains three museums in Burlington: the Heritage Center, the Phelps House Museum and the Hawkeye Log Cabin Museum. It is a non-profit organization operated by a small staff and many dedicated volunteers.

The Hawkeye Log Cabin celebrates 100 years in 2010. Originally it was the meeting house for the Hawkeye Natives, a gentleman’s club organized to honor the heritage of the pioneering spirit that settled this area. It was built by the members of the organization using tools familiar to the pioneer; the broad axe, the adze, the two man saw and the froe. The cabin was given to the Historical Society in 1973.

Just like any old building, the cabin needs constant care. There have been many repairs and continual upkeep, but the time has come to rejuvenate this old building. The attic beams need strengthening, the roof needs to be re-shingled in some places, the fireplace should be tuck-pointed, the exterior chinking should be redone, and the insulation in the ceiling replaced. The total of these repairs is estimated at about $15,000.00.

The DMC Historical Society is holding a Centennial Celebration on June 26, 2010 at the Hawkeye Log Cabin to kick off our fund raising campaign. This will be a day of frontier activities, food and fun. While there will be no admission charged, donations will be accepted for every activity. 

JUST THINK –
IF 1000 VISITORS DONATE $3.75 EACH
WE WILL BE 25% OF THE WAY TO OUR GOAL.
See You There!!!

Thanks to all of you, the Des Moines County Historical Society has had a productive and busy year. The Heritage Center is open with several exciting galleries, school programs and more to come. Phelps House Museum maintains its stately position at the top of Snake Alley after restoration to the roof and the heating system. And the Hawkeye Log Cabin hosted a large number of interested visitors during the summer. We have a website and even a space on
facebook! The Education Committee is busy with school programs, the Collections Committee recording new donations, and the Special Events Committee with the Phelps House Christmas event and Second Sundays programs in the Bart Howard Room.

We need to keep the momentum going so that the DMCHS can continue to add programs, expand exhibits, provide other related educational opportunities, retain our staff and maintain our buildings.To do so, we need your financial support. Your gift of $50, $100, or $200 (or any amount) will ensure that the DMCHS can continue working hard to promote the history, heritage and creative spirit of Des Moines County.
It seems that we have taken a big turn in the development of the Heritage Center classes. The majority of the exhibits are done and it is time to start replacing the seasonal exhibits, keeping things current and interesting. Along with the exhibits, the Board and staff would like to offer workshops and schedule group tours and field trips to other museums.These plans can only happen with the financial and voluntary support of our membership. Your time and dollars help us provide and return services to you. If you would like to make a donation to support the Des Moines County Historical Society and the Des Moines County Heritage Center, please contact us at the address, phone or email listed here.

Thank you for your support. Kelly