DES MOINES - When the United States entered the First World War on April 6, 1917, thousands of Iowans stepped up to support the cause, both in the trenches and at home.
Beginning next month, the State Historical Museum of Iowa will honor their legacy by opening a new exhibition called "Iowa and the Great War," hosting a University of Iowa traveling display and lecture about German immigrants, and offering educational programs for students.
"The State Historical Museum engages Iowans of all ages with unique stories about the history of our state," State Historical Society of Iowa Administrator Susan Kloewer said. "With the 100th anniversary of the United States' entry into World War I, this is a perfect opportunity to honor those who sacrificed so much at home and abroad. We are pleased to partner with the University of Iowa, and we encourage Iowans to visit the museum to learn more about our state's role in this remarkable chapter of history."
A list of upcoming programs follows:
- Iowa and the Great War exhibition
- Iowa and the Great War exhibition opening reception
- History Alive: World War I (for students only)
- German Iowans in World War I presentation
- German Iowa and the Global Midwest traveling exhibition
The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs and its three divisions – the Iowa Arts Council, Produce Iowa - State Office of Media Production and the State Historical Society of Iowa – empower Iowa to build and sustain culturally vibrant communities by connecting Iowans to the people, places and points of pride that define our state. The department’s work enables Iowa to be recognized as a state that fosters creativity and serves as a catalyst for innovation where the stories of Iowa are preserved and communicated to connect past, present and future generations.