Taste of the Junction Pop Up History Museum & Cultural Gallery

Project Description

The TOTJ mobile pop-Up History Museum captures Iowa's history and showcases the resilience of this diverse community, The series of panels highlights the diversity and culture of the Valley Junction community by sharing the stories of the early families and groups who settled in the area. This includes immigrants from Europe, Central America, and South America, as well as individuals who participated in the Great Migration of African Americans from southern states. Every year, we produce a commemorative booklet and gather documents, photos, and artifacts from the community to expand the museum. It has traveled to school districts, cultural events, and has been featured in "The Iowa Files," an educational history lecture series, a joint program by the West Des Moines Historical Society and the West Des Moines Public Library.

Our goal is to bring our local history to life online! We are working to digitize our Pop-Up History Museum Panels and our historical archives. TOTJ values inclusivity, and this will enhance engagement, preserve our heritage, and strengthen connections within the community.