I live just three hours south of Des Moines, Iowa in the Kansas City area. The trip there is an enjoyably easy drive past placid acres of farmland. I began my stay with a visit to the Iowa State Historical Museum. I always like to learn the backstory of a town, so that I can get a better sense of it. The Museum is an enormous building with many themed rooms. As I moved through each one, I learned enlightening information about Iowans. I was unaware that they were involved in the development of the computer age.
John Atansoff created the first binary computer, and Robert Noyce co-invented the microchip (Noyce was nicknamed the Mayor of Silicon Valley). I suspected Iowa unpretentiously produced many more illustrious world changers. And sure enough, each room revealed plenty. I hope you go and enjoy each remarkable story yourself, especially if you have any familial connection to this State.
The Hollywood Room spotlights film stars, which include: Ashton Kutcher, Donna Reed (from my favorite movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”), Elijah Wood, and the Duke (John Wayne).
Two iconic movies were produced here: “The Bridges of Madison County” with Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, and “Field of Dreams” (Kevin Costner).
Moving on into the Civil War room, I learned that the musicians were vital to the troops. Vital. The bugle calls represented different instructions, from retreat to charge. It was the main source of communication to the masses of soldiers. The full bands energized soldiers for marching and entering battle. Music carried them forward in a surging wave of courage. Afterwards, the musicians also calmed the soldiers, following the horrors they had just encountered. I have always believed that music is one of the greatest influences on human souls. No wonder the Civil War musicians were tantamount in importance.
I stood in front of this display for a long time, imagining…. These prosthetics, even though hollow, were made of wood, and surely heavy and laborious. The docent told me that often the men suffered amputaions, were fitted with a prosthetic, and returned to battle. War is brutal to begin with, but in that era, it is unfathomable.
Before leaving the museum, I stopped in their Research Center. Staff member, Kelsey, gave me a tour of the State archives, which are accessible to the public. Look at the tiny books from the 1800’s and the crumbling ledger. It is so fun digging through these types of books to find ancestors. It is the ultimate treasure hunt!
As I exited the Museum, I turned and walked up the street to the Iowa State Capitol building. It exudes the feel of a noble castle. It was built in 1871, and still looks pristine. The constant care it receives is admirable. You can roam throughout the entire building. Inside is even more enchanting. Just like a fairytale castle.
Watch the video of the Law Library to feel the aura of the Jane Austen period.
Even the staircases and walkways are breathtaking. As I passed by the office of the Secretary of State, I did a double-take at a sign inviting visitors in. I hesitantly pushed open the huge wooden door, and was heartily welcomed by the staff. They uncovered the State Constitution to show me. Written in 1857, I enjoyed viewing the quill strokes: the re-inking of the quill each time caused a darker downstroke, followed by successively lightening letters. The staff said the Constitution was recently removed to be scanned, and was surrounded by a regal unit of armed guards. The staff have wonderful stories. Stop by and chat with them. They made my visit extra special. They told me that a couple had recently stopped by and remarked that they had toured 47 Capitol buildings. They deemed the Iowa one as being at the very top for beauty and elegance. What a thrill it must be to work in such ambiance.
I finished my two-day trip with a stop in Historic Valley Junction. I treated myself to boutique shopping. I started at Happy Headquarters, because who doesn’t want to visit the headquarters of happiness?! And it absolutely made me feel cheerful, with it’s bright colors.
The next boutique was Homespun Elegance, where everything is homemade by Iowans. I thought the wood-carved journals were unique.
MoMere is exquisite. It is an indulgence for the senses. It was the perfect way to end my trip. Des Moines has so much to offer. I hope you go and experience this impressive Midwest town.