Upcoming events​

Help Craft the Des Moines Historic Preservation Plan!  
Your input is needed.  More information about this effort can be found here

Some events are available only to members of the Des Moines Historical Society. Joining is easy and inexpensive. Just click here to join. It takes seconds to do and will help support efforts to preserve the stories and artifacts of Des Moines history.

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EVENTS & PROGRAMS!​



DMHS toured Historic Grant Elementary School.
​Join us for future tours! 

Built in 1885 as an elementary school honoring President Grant, it served the Drake neighborhood until the 1960s. Surviving the construction of Interstate 235, it transformed into a church in 1971. Apart from a sanctuary addition, the structure remains mostly unchanged. Regrettably, the original brick was concealed with stucco in the early 20th century. Limited vintage postcard images exist, yet its historical significance endures.

Join DMHS today & join in the fun!  

Streetcar historian, Earl Short, presents the History of the Des Moines Streetcars. See Event Listings for dates and times. 



DMHS toured the Gabriel House. Join us for future tours!

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  • Woodland Cemetery Book Launch Event
    Monday, April 29 / 4:00-6:00 PM
    Franklin Avenue Library

    ​Meet the authors of "Woodland Cemetery in Des Moines: A History" at this book sales & signing. 
    ​All proceeds go to Woodland Cemetery Restoration.
  • Dave and Kathy Hellstern House Tour
    ​Date & Time TBD

    803 Hickman Ave, Des Moines
    This event is for Members Only. Join here!


  • Check back often for updated events & follow our Facebook page here for the latest information.