Special Projects
Mahaska County's Military Legacy
The Mahaska County Historical Society is gathering information of county veterans and active military personnel for our archives. In an upcoming military exhibit, information will be available to the public by accessing an interactive database. Veterans since the county's founding in 1844 will be included with this database. Only the required fields on the form will be made public. No contact information will be shared.
Any veteran or family member who would like to share their story more fully may indicate their interest on the form. The MCHS is conducting oral histories to preserve these stories of the past. These voice or video recordings will be preserved in the research library at MCHS. There is NO obligation to be interviewed if you fill out the form.
Museum Lower Level Renovation Project
MCHS has hired Quad Cities-based exhibit design company Edwards Creative to install two new exhibits on the Lower Level of the museum building.
"A Legacy of Patriotism and Service" honors the service and sacrifice of Mahaska County's servicemen and -women since the county formed in 1844. The exhibit emphasizes the local stories and experiences of those who served and their families and friends who remained in Mahaska. One of the key features is an interactive database where people can access basic information of those who served or who continue to serve.
"Weaving Creativity" showcases the creativity of Mahaska's residents through the production and embellishment of textile items. The exhibit explores the tools and equipment needed to turn raw materials into functional yarns, threads, and fabric then highlights different clothing items, home decor, and quilts made from those functional pieces.
The renovation is a multi-year project with a total cost of $150,000. We have raised the funds needed for the physical installation of the exhibits and Edwards will be on site to begin December 2023. All donors will be acknowledged on a donor wall to be installed with the exhibit.
We have increased our goal to include conservation and preservation supplies that will be used specifically for the priceless artifacts on display in these exhibits, including: storage boxes, OCR scanner for maps and other documents, tissue paper, file folders, and other archival quality supplies.
Giving levels are:
5 Star Presenting
$25,000 and above
4 Star General
$15,000-$24,999
3 Star Lt General
$5,000-$14,999
2 Star Major General
$501-$4,999
Gold Star Supporter
$1-$500