Welcome to the Des Moines County Historical Society
Step into the stories that shaped Southeast Iowa. From the riverboats that once ruled the Mississippi to the communities that built our region, the Des Moines County Historical Society preserves, protects, and brings to life the rich history of our corner of the world.
Explore our historic sites, dive into our collections, and discover how the past still echoes through our present. Whether you’re a lifelong local, a curious visitor, or a passionate history buff, there’s a story here for you.
Our Sites
Heritage Center Museum
Located in the heart of downtown Burlington, the Heritage Center is our flagship museum and research hub. Step inside to explore rotating exhibits, archives, and local artifacts that span everything from Native American history to river commerce and early industry.
Garrett-Phelps House
Perched at the top of Snake Alley, this stately mansion was built in the mid-19th century. Period furnishings and original artifacts offer a glimpse into the area’s intriguing past.
Hawkeye Log Cabin
Sitting with a view of the Mississippi River at Crapo Park, this restored log cabin offers a hands-on glimpse into early pioneer life. Walk through the door and back in time to the raw, resilient spirit of Iowa’s earliest settlers.
Museum hours
Mon
Tues
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
Closed
10 AM – 4 PM
10 AM – 4 PM
10 AM – 4 PM
10 AM – 4 PM
10 AM – 3 PM
Closed
Recent News
Our Latest News
-
Snake Alley Days Returns May 30
Join us on Saturday, May 30 from 10 AM to 4 PM for Snake Alley Days at the Des Moines County Heritage Center and Garrett-Phelps…
-
African-American History in Iowa
By Cora Hermann-Wickham A compelling work from the collection is the book Outside In: African-American History in Iowa, 1838-2000, by Bill Silag, Susan Koch-Bridgford, and…
-
6th Street Viaduct
By Cora Hermann-Wickham Burlington’s efforts to cross the busy railroad tracks at 6th Street go back to the mid-1800s. When the railroad first arrived in…