Iowa Ag Connection - Gregg Unveils Local History Network

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Gregg Unveils Local History Network
Iowa Ag Connection - 03/21/2018

Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg unveiled the Local History Network on Tuesday at the State Capitol in Des Moines. The Local History Network is a new statewide program from the State Historical Society of Iowa designed to help historical organizations access training opportunities and professional expertise.

Historians can learn about best practices, funding opportunities and industry news. Participants can also request technical assistance from State Historical Society staff about maintaining collections, creating exhibits, planning educational programs and more. The network also offers online toolkits to guide participants through specific challenges, from caring for textiles to writing grants.

The lt. governor was a history student at Central College when he interviewed his grandfather, Glenn Gregg of Hawarden, about his service during World War II. He donated an audio recording of his grandfather's interview to the Hawarden Public Library.

"That's the kind of real-world connection you can't find in most textbooks," Lt. Gov. Gregg said. "In museums, libraries and historical societies across the state, Iowans take care of the artifacts and documents that tell the stories of who we are and how we got here. The Local History Network offers people tools to save and share those stories for future generations, just as earlier generations have done for us."

The State Historical Society has already identified more than 200 local and county historical societies to join the new network and encourages other groups to sign up as well. Participation is free and open to any Iowa organization that preserves history.

The Local History Network was developed in response to feedback the State Historical Society gathered during statewide listening sessions over the last few years. Historians asked for help to strengthen their local organizations and ensure their long-term sustainability, especially since most historical organizations operate on minimal budgets with dedicated volunteers.

"By making our resources, grants and expertise more accessible through the Local History Network, the State Historical Society looks forward to being a responsive and relevant statewide partner," State Historical Society Administrator Susan Kloewer said. "We recognize how important history is to the identity of our fellow Iowans and how it enriches our communities now and into the future."

The Local History Network is just the latest addition to the State Historical Society's array of statewide programs, including Historical Resource Development Grants, artifact loans and preservation assistance through the National Register of Historic Places.

Those who are interested in joining the Local History Network can find more information at iowaculture.gov.

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