State Historical Society of Iowa Press Release

State Historical Museum offers sign language tours next month

Docent tours serve deaf community and their families, friends

(DES MOINES) – The State Historical Museum will offer free docent sign language tours for the deaf community and their families and friends next month.

Sponsored by the Des Moines Host Lions Foundation, the tours will be May 15, 2011, at the State Historical Museum, 600 E. Locust Street in Des Moines. Museum staff and volunteers will lead the tours and Deaf Action Services will provide sign language interpreters.

The sign language tour schedule follows:

• 1 p.m., “The Delicate Balance: Human Values and Iowa’s Natural Resources” – A look at how people have used Iowa’s natural resources from prehistoric time to the present. This exhibit showcases Native American collections, wildlife and fossils. Stand in a cramped coal mine and investigate “Walk in Beauty,” a study case of moccasins and beadwork.

• 2:30 p.m., “You Gotta Know the Territory” – A walk through Iowa’s early years before statehood (1838-1846), focusing on native cultures, immigration, farming, town life and human rights. Push a plow, try a two-person saw, and watch a video about a girl traveling west to Iowa in a covered wagon.

In addition, crafts and art projects will be available 1-4 p.m. for individuals of all ages. Volunteers will assist with craft activities. The tours are free and reservations are not required.

Contact Maureen Korte at maureen.korte@iowa.gov or 515-281-4132 for more information.

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The State Historical Society of Iowa is a division of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, and is a trustee of Iowa’s historical legacy and an advocate for understanding Iowa’s past. It identifies, records, collects, preserves, manages and provides access to Iowa’s historical resources. Its dual mission of preservation and education serves Iowans of all ages, conducts and stimulates research, disseminates information, and encourages and supports historical preservation and education efforts of others throughout the state. Visit www.iowahistory.org or call 515-281-5111 for more information.

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