West Des Moines Historical Society 2013 Events

This year, the West Des Moines Historical Society was busy with many fun events!!

To kick off the event season, an Ice Cream Social was held in conjunction with the Historic Valley Junction Spring Art Market. Children’s activities, tours of the Jordan House, entertainment by singer-songwriter Lily DeTaeye, and (of course!) ice cream were featured during this fun event.

Next, Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players entertained audiences for 2 performances on June 22nd on the Bennett School lawn. Attendees from ages 2 to 82 danced to the catchy tunes. Everyone left with a smile on their face and a spring in their step.

As part of the West Des Moines Independence Day Parade, the WDMHS included a float complete with volunteers costumed as historic characters. The parade was a great way to reach out to the community about what the Historical Society has to offer!

Sunday, July 14, found the Historical Society partnering with Iowa Shakespeare Experience for a second year of Shakespeare on our Lawn at historic Jordan House. This year’s attendees enjoyed a performance of Shakespeare Shorts, a family friendly sneak peak of Othello. It was a lovely summer evening for sitting under our trees and enjoying the performance of the actors.

It was a dark and cloudy night October 30th as guests arrived at the Jordan House for the evening’s performance of Cabaret Macabre – Day of the Dead Show. We partnered with The Iowa Shakespeare Experience for 6 performances of this show from October 19th to November 1st. Our historic Jordan House was turned into the perfect setting for Dracula, and the audience filled our parlor for an “up close and personal” intimate performance. Readings of Poe were held during intermission to add to the intrigue of the evening.

To complete the events this year, be sure to visit us during the Christmas Time at the Jordan House and Bennett School events!