A250 Revolutionary Iowans Exhibit Experience

Learn about Iowa’s connections to the American Revolution and Early Republic in the State Historical Museum’s latest exhibit experience, "Revolutionary Iowans."
2026 marks the United States of America’s semiquincentennial, or 250th anniversary. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally separating the thirteen British colonies and establishing the United States of America.
Iowa did not become a state until 70 years later in 1846, but the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution still have meaning for Iowans. They help us understand our past and shape our future to better promote equality and liberty.
The State Historical Society of Iowa is proud to participate in the nationwide celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. We invite you to explore Iowa’s connections to the American Revolution throughout the museum’s exhibit galleries.
Exhibit Highlights:
• Explore 23 “Revolutionary Iowans” – people who stood for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and lived the legacy of the American Revolution through fighting for equality and engaging with their communities
• Learn about more than 40 Revolutionary War veterans buried in Iowa
• Run your fingers over a tactile Declaration of Independence
• View more than 20 artifacts in the museum's collection from the American Revolution and Early Republic periods, including a lock of George Washington’s hair, a musket, cutlass sword, and powder horns used in the Revolutionary War, a brick from Independence Hall, and more
Learn More: history.iowa.gov/visit/state-historical-museum-iowa/exhibits/revolutionary-iowans
Plan your visit at history.iowa.gov/visit