Iowa Files Weekend

It’s two days of fascinating history with the Iowa Files! Both programs begin at 2:30pm and held at the West Des Moines Public Library. The Iowa Files are free and open to the public.

Saturday, March 16: JB Grinnell and the Iowa Underground Railroad.
Preacher,” “congressman,” “negro-stealer”: Josiah Bushnell Grinnell was called all of those things during his life. He was called a negro-stealer because he participated in the Iowa Underground Railroad. J.B. Grinnell and other Grinnell residents helped at least 37 fugitive slaves who passed through their town before the Civil War. But some residents opposed this work. David Connon will tell a story of racism, noble actions and conflict. He will highlight abolitionist John Brown’s visit to Grinnell, and Grinnell’s first riot over the presence of fugitive slaves in the public school.

This program is made possible by Humanities Iowa.

Sunday, March 17: Iowa’s Misbehaving Women
It’s not what you’re thinking! Author Cheryl Mullenbach shares funny and sometimes poignant stories of Iowa women who misbehaved, according to society at that time. From marching for the right to vote and working outside the home, these misbehaving women are inspiring!