Celebrate Service
I grew up in southern California, and have often been asked what I’m doing in Iowa. But I’m proud to live in a state with such a strong history of civil rights, fairness and equality. Iowa again blazed this trail through extending the right to marry to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. This controversial Iowa Supreme Court decision follows a pattern established many years ago.
The Fort Des Moines Museum celebrates the heroes who brought gender and racial equality to the United States Army during World War I and World War II. The Museum honors the U.S. Army’s first officer candidate class for African American men in 1917, and the establishment of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC’s) in 1942. Videos show an African American soldier and a WAC (Women’s Army Ausiliary Corps) telling about their training at the Fort and their lives overseas.
It is a great place to go to celebrate one chapter of this history, and to learn more about the history of civil rights. The Museum has age-based learning programs and exhibits for students and adults. Museum programs focus on kids in Kindergarten through 12th grades. The Museum sets up scavenger hunts that help you try out antique record players, typewriters and horseback riding. You can even try on a World War I backpack.
Schedule tours by contacting Michael Kates or at 515-280-8060. The Museum hosts meetings, parties and offers educational programs. During the summer, they offer a number of day camps–Fun at the Fort. You can download the brochure and registration form here.
Donni July 22nd, 2010 at 8:43 am
It’s great to see Iowa noted for its history of equality and civil rights. Glad to learn of the age-based education opportunities at the Fort Des Moines Museum. Thanks for posting this info!