Iowa History 101: From Coal Palace to Closing the Plant: Coal and Community on the Lower Des Moines River

Join Kevin T. Mason, an associate professor of history at Waldorf University, as he explores the history of coal in southeastern Iowa. Incorporating elements of his 2021 walk across Iowa to follow the route of the 1st United States Dragoons, the presentation will focus on how early observation of coal deposits paired with boosterish enthusiasm to develop a significant coal-mining industry in Iowa. The talk will highlight early exploration, dispossession, industry development, the Ottumwa Coal Palace, and diverse communities, including Buxton.

Register in advance.

Learn more and watch past programs here.