Iowa Archives

History has not always been kind to LGBTQ communities. Far too often, historical accounts of queer culture and individuals lean on writings and documents drafted from the outside, failing to authentically preserve the rich and diverse experiences of LGBTQ individuals. Aiden Bettine and AJ Lewis are working to help LGBTQ Iowans reclaim control of their legacies through two oral history and archive projects based out of Iowa City and Grinnell.

Two free concerts will bookend the 4th of July weekend at the State Capitol. Tonight, it’s the Des Moines Symphony’s Yankee Doodle Pops. Sunday evening,…

Our Memorial Day special is a compilation of unique recordings showcasing Iowa’s proud contributions to music history. If you are unfamiliar with Iowa…

Camouflage. It has invaded our everyday wardrobe; from dessert tan, to jungle green and an array of bewildering designs. 100 years ago next month, a…

Iowa's worst air disaster is being commemorated this coming weekend. It was 25 years ago when United Flight 232 wobbled into Sioux City for a crash…

We all make time saving short cuts every day, but none could compare to one of the most important short cuts in history. The Panama Canal turns 100 this…

In war or in peace, thousands of Iowans have served in the armed forces. With both archival audio and original interviews, "In Uniform" honors and…

One of the oldest records that Iowa still holds will be lost soon. That is when the earliest operating prison west of the Mississippi will he replaced by…

Grateful Americans are honoring former President Gerald Ford this weekend at a reunion in Dana Point, California. They owe their citizenship, and perhaps…

As Iowans take to the road for family vacations, there is new appreciation for two of Iowa’s oldest highways. The Lincoln is 100 years old, and proud of…