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Supervisors authorize letter asking Iowa Historical Society to return Clinton County materials after branch closure
Summary
After learning an Iowa Historical Society branch is reportedly closing, the Board of Supervisors unanimously authorized a formal county letter seeking preservation and retrieval of Clinton County historical materials and discussed temporary storage and a future funding rubric for community historical projects.
Supervisor George raised concerns at the June 1, 2026 Clinton County Board of Supervisors meeting about county-related archival materials housed at the Iowa Historical Society branch in Iowa City, which he said is reportedly closing. He identified potentially significant items including Daughters of the American Revolution records, historic property studies funded by the City of Clinton, materials related to the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, items concerning former Mayor Lameta Wynn, and railroad historical materials.
The board discussed options to preserve or retrieve the materials, including sending a formal letter to the Iowa Historical Society to express Clinton County's interest and temporarily storing retrieved items in county facilities until a permanent archival location is arranged. Supervisor George also proposed the county consider developing a funding rubric or application process for community historical or civic projects, potentially drawing on guidance from ECIA and existing county funding frameworks.
Chairperson Daniel A. Srp moved to authorize preparation of a formal letter on county letterhead and to authorize the Vice Chair’s signature. The motion passed by roll call vote: Irwin: Yes; George: Yes; Srp: Yes. The board directed staff to prepare the letter and scheduled further discussion of a funding rubric for a future meeting.
The matter carries potential implications for local heritage preservation and will return to the Board for additional direction and possible funding or policy development.
