African American Museum: Preserving Black History Across Iowa

The story of Iowa is incomplete without acknowledging the profound contributions and resilience of its Black citizens. While the African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) is headquartered in Cedar Rapids, its impact is felt throughout the state, particularly in Des Moines. Through its innovative “pop-up” model and traveling exhibits, the museum functions as a mobile classroom, bringing vital historical narratives directly into the communities where that history was made.

A Legacy Without Borders

The museum’s approach to education is as dynamic as the history it preserves. Rather than being confined to a single building, the AAMI utilizes traveling exhibits and community partnerships to ensure that stories of Black excellence—and the struggle for civil rights—are accessible to all. In Des Moines, these exhibits often appear in public libraries, state buildings, and community centers, transforming everyday spaces into galleries of reflection.

Currently, the museum’s statewide focus includes the “Rooted: Labor, Land, & Legacy” exhibit (running through August 2026), which explores the deep intersection of agriculture and Black resiliency. For Des Moines residents, these pop-ups frequently highlight local milestones, such as Edna Griffin’s 1948 sit-in at Katz Drug Store or the integrated “utopia” of the mining town of Buxton. By bringing these artifacts and narratives to the capital, the museum ensures that the specific triumphs of Des Moines’ Black community remain a central part of our collective memory.

• Traveling Exhibits: Feature-rich displays like “Driven By Hope” and “Untangling the Roots” move between cities, offering deep dives into migration and cultural identity.
• Pop-up Programming: During Black History Month and Juneteenth, the museum often partners with the State Historical Museum of Iowa and local organizations for guided tours and specialized workshops.
• Virtual Access: For those unable to catch a physical exhibit, the museum maintains a robust digital database and virtual tours of its permanent collection, “Endless Possibilities.”

Plan a Visit

Because the museum’s presence in Des Moines is primarily through temporary exhibits and community events, planning requires checking their current schedule. There is no single “museum building” in Des Moines; instead, the exhibits travel to various venues throughout the metro area.

When planning to attend a pop-up, it is best to consult the AAMI’s official website or local event calendars. This February, look for special programming at the State Historical Museum of Iowa and collaborative art displays featuring Black American leaders.

Tell Us About Your Visit

History is a conversation between the past and the present. Have you encountered one of the AAMI’s traveling exhibits at your local library or attended a Heritage Legacy event in Des Moines? We would love to hear which story or artifact resonated with you the most. Sharing your reflections helps ensure that the voices of Black Iowans continue to be heard and honored across our state.