Historical Sites offer great opportunities to both learn as well as get out and explore the world around us. While not known primarily for its historical sites, there is always a reason to visit one of Des Moines historical sites. This article will feature four of the many historical sites that Des Moines has to offer. With many located both inside and outside the city, this article will feature four locations which can offer fun for the whole family.
Des Moines Historical Site #1: Jordan House
Work was started on the Jordan House in 1850. Built by Melinda and the Virginian James C Jordan, some of the first settlers in West Des Moines, as the third shelter/house in the same area since their immigration to the spot just a few years prior. Jordan would help found Valley Junction, basically what is today West Des Moines, which became a head for many railroads in the region and help grow Des Moines. The Jordan house would also become a stop on the underground railroad. James C. Jordan was a staunch abolitionist and was the chief conductor of Polk County for the railroad. John Brown would stay two times, most notably during 1858.
In 1978, the West Des Moines Historical Society would purchase the house and start renovations. Renovations continue on the house which has been restored to its historic views. The Jordan House offers a look at the past right in West Des Moines.
Des Moines Historical Site #2: Iowa State Historic Museum
While more well-known that the Jordan House, the Iowa State Historic Museum is still a very important museum for the Des Moines downtown area. Located just a few blocks from the state capital, this museum gives the opportunity to follow the history of Iowa right in the capital. Rotating and in-depth permanent exhibits give the excuse to go back for a second trip. The Museum offers a nice opportunity to explore the downtown area with its location.
Des Moines Historical Site #3: Woodland Mounds State Preserve
Located a 45-minute drive south from Des Moines, The Woodland Mounds State Preserve includes a beautiful hike through the woods and the opportunity to visit historical mounds. This historic site includes mounds from a long-ago people, called the Woodland Culture. Ancestors to the Native peoples more familiar to the 21st century audience, these people would build these cone-shaped mounds. With a careful eye, spotting these mounds can help visitors connect to the distant past of the lands in which they live. An hour in the other direction lies the Skillet Mounds Indian Mounds, both include hikes in the area.
Des Moines Historical Site #4: Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge and Prairie Learning Center
A very easy 30-minute drive to the east of Des Moines, The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge allows visitors to see remnants of the prairie which covered vast areas of Iowa. The visitors center includes many educational exhibits for visitors and a film about the past of Iowa and the fight to save the prairie. There are two hikes available at the refuge at different difficulty levels. There is also a road inside the refuge where visitors can drive into the pen of the wildlife refuge and see Buffalo or Elk.
