Cedar County Historical Society, Museum is on a mission

HARTINGTON — The Cedar County Historical Society is on a mission to raise enough money, interest and business partnerships to see the Cedar County Museum through some much needed upgrades.

The Historical society started in 1963 with the mission, “dedicated to preserving the history of Cedar County through the preservation of its historical past.” That mission and the donation of the Lammers mansion led to the opening of the current county museum in 1964.

The Four-Story Victorian mansion that serves as the main museum seeks to upgrade electrical and accessibility issues including repairs to the front porch area. Dan Kathol is the society treasurer and says,

“The Cedar County Commissioners are wonderful in supplementing the annual basic needs of the museum. It is also funded by membership dues, donations, memorials, and grants,” said Dan Kathol Society treasurer. “The repairs that need to be done now exist beyond our operation and limited budget. These are large repairs for the future vitality of the museum.”

The museum is non-profit, county-based, and volunteer driven. Laurie Kathol is the president of the Cedar County Historical Society that oversees the museum.

“We serve all the towns of Cedar County including schools and families with everything from tours to educational events,” said Laurie Kathol. “The museum provides genealogy services and assists researchers from all over. In all, it is great multi-generational fun.”

The museum is anxious to become a more vital part of the county. To see this dream come true, organizers are relying on the support of the entire county. Board members ask that community members take the time to donate to the museum today, volunteer your time, or become a sustaining member. There are a lot of ways to get involved. Check us out on cedarcountyhistoricalmuseeum.com.