State Historical Society of Iowa | State Historical Society of Iowa Preserving, Interpreting, & Sharing Iowa’s History Established in 1857, The State Historical Society of Iowa serves a vital resource for understanding the state’s rich past, culture, and development. About the State Historical Society of Iowa Explore current collections Make a donation Become a supporting member Upcoming events Iowa City Branch Updates Celebrate America 250 in Iowa Discover what is happening in a community near you or plan an Iowa road trip to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Learn more about America 250 in Iowa Image Explore Iowa’s History Learn Explore K-12 education, National History Day, adult and lifelong learning opportunities, and more. Research Browse books and periodicals, records, digital resources, collections, archives, and more. Support See how you can make a difference to our mission through donations, volunteer opportunities, or donating artifacts. Grants Learn about grants that help support historic preservation, research, authorship, and curation for Iowa history. Locations Visit Iowa’s History Explore Iowa’s rich history by visiting the State Historical Society Museum, research centers, and historic sites while exploring archives of rare resources, artifacts, exhibits, and beyond. Visit us today Image Image Caretaker Resources Be a Historic Steward Get access to toolkits, emergency guidance, collections care, and more with our resources for caretakers of historic artifacts and information. Explore tools and resources Upcoming Events View all events 14 May Iowa History 101: Miracle of The Music Man: Meredith Willson’s Iowa Roots and Broadway Triumph Join author Mark Cabaniss for this Iowa History 101 program as he draws from his acclaimed and bestselling book to tell the inspiring story of Meredith Willson. May 14, 2026 12:00 pm After-Hours Collection Tour Step behind the scenes for an evening at the State Historical Museum of Iowa during the museum's after-hours museum collection tour. May 15, 2026 5:30 pm May 15, 2026 6:30 pm State Historical Society of Iowa Board of Trustees Meeting State Historical Society of Iowa Board of Trustees Meeting May 2026 Agenda May 28, 2026 11:00 am May 28, 2026 1:00 pm Image Publications Explore Historical Journals & Magazines The State Historical Society of Iowa offers publications past and present that will engage your eyes, ears, mind, and imagination. View all publications Recent News Read the latest news about programs, projects, events, and initiatives. View all news State Historical Society of Iowa calls for board and awards nominations December 5, 2025 State Historical Society of Iowa announces continued partnership with Ancestry.com November 25, 2025 Nine Iowans Named Awardees in State Historical Society’s Excellence in History Awards June 30, 2025 Seventy-three students earn top honors at State History Contest, advance to Nationals, special award recipients and educators recognized May 14, 2025