Ottumwa Stories: Celebrate Iowa Museum Week In Wapello County

Published June 1, 2023

We're excited to be celebrating Iowa Museum Week here in Wapello County! All of our communities take pride in their history, and each has a museum dedicated to preserving and displaying the stories of who we are and where we've come from. Click on the museum below for more details.

Iowa Heartland History Connection - Ottumwa: Formerly the Wapello County Historical Society, the exhibits of the Iowa Heartland History Connection draw from a collection of more than 20,000 items and trace the history and cultures of the region from pre-Columbian indigenous life, through the 20th century.

Blakesburg Community Museum: Located in the town's original post office, the Blakesburg Historical Preservation Society houses items, photographs, and documents that highlight the history of the community.

American Gothic House & Center: Wapello County's crown jewel, Artist Grant Wood sketched this house during a 1930 visit to Eldon and used it as the backdrop in his world-famous painting, American Gothic. The adjacent center is home to a museum, gift shop, and media room that are perfect for visitors of all ages.

Eddyville Historical Museum: The Eddyville Historical Museum houses a collection of items related to the history of businesses, schools, industries, and organizations that have made Eddyville what is it today. In addition to the museum, the building also serves as a community center and is available to rent for events.

Antique Airplane Association's Air Power Museum: The Antique Airfield in Blakesburg is the headquarters of the Antique Airplane Association, the world's oldest organization dedicated to restoring and flying antique and classic aircraft. The museum is home to more than 20,000 square feet of display area featuring engines, models, displays, and historic aircraft, many of which are flown regularly.

For more information about Wapello County museums during Iowa Museum Week, click HERE.