Iowa County Historical Society
The Iowa County Historical Society is organized and operated for educational purposes. It is our intent to create and develop an active interest in historical events, articles, and sites within the county and state as well as find, collect, preserve, and exhibit materials pertinent to Iowa County history.
Programs and events are held during the summer months. Programs are advertised in the membership newsletter, newspaper articles and on the Iowa County, Iowa Facebook site.
Pioneer Heritage Museum Grounds
The Iowa County Historical Society maintains and operates the Pioneer Heritage Museum. The Museum is open to visitors and operates on a donation basis. Tours for groups can be arranged by phone or by sending an e-mail. The site in Marengo, Iowa includes the following exhibits and historical services:
- The Heritage Museum building with exhibits of household, country store items, and military uniforms from the Spanish war to the Vietnam and Desert Storm. The 1880 Hursch farmhouse is reconstructed inside the museum. There is a Music impact on history with the Eckert harp on display.
- A Resource library is available to assist in the research of Iowa County families, communities, churches, schools, and businesses.
- The Chicago Rock Island Railroad depot which was relocated from Victor, Iowa.
- 1938 Marengo Fire Truck
- The 1861 Meyer Log Cabin and bachelor cabin relocated from the Homestead area.
- Bees Filling Station built in the 1930s and relocated from Hartwick, Iowa
- Heritage Barn recently built to display Model T car and various antique farm machinery and tools
- Misel/McBride child’s playhouse built as a model for a home in Marengo 100 years ago
Gritter Creek Country School
- The Gritter Creek Country School is located west of North English and maintained by the Iowa county Historical Society.
- The school is fully furnished with desks, and play equipment outside.
- It was made an independent school district on December 25th, 1874.
- The only remaining brick one-room school building in Iowa County.
- To visit the Country School directions are: Go west of North English on F67. Just west of the golf course turn on 336th street for 2 miles to J ave. Turn north on J Ave and go 1mile and advance to Gritter school.
MEMBERSHIP
Anyone with an interest in historical preservation or research may become a member and enjoy the benefits of ICHS membership. The membership year runs from May 1 through April 30 with members receiving four newsletters per year as well as an annual program book. All members are welcome to the regular monthly board meetings as well as to the general meetings of the society held quarterly. Members are always welcome to offer articles for inclusion in the newsletter.
The Iowa County Historical society maintains and improves the Museum and grounds on the generous donations of the community. They may be sent to the address listed below for memberships.
To become a member of ICHS, click "ICHS Membership Application" below and print; complete and send the application along with your payment to: Iowa County Historical Society, P.O. Box 288, Marengo, IA 52301
Print ICHS Membership Application
Contact & Directions
Pioneer Heritage Museum
PO Box 288
675 East South St.
Marengo, IA 52301
(319) 642-7018
Directions: Take Eastern Ave. from Highway 6. Turn right on South Street at the Heritage Museum sign.
Hours: Thursday – Friday 12pm to 4pm, starting June 1st or by appointment on other days.
Phone: (319) 642-7018 (Museum)
Email:
Iowa County Historical Society
Facebook: Iowa County, Iowa Historical Society
