Opened in April 2011, the Downtown Museum is one of the best things to do in Sioux City. Before it Opened Downtown Previously, it used to be at the Peirce Mansion on Jackson Street, but
Opened in April 2011, the Downtown Museum is one of the best things to do in Sioux City.
Before it Opened Downtown
Previously, it used to be at the Peirce Mansion on Jackson Street, but after moving, the museum was able to expand, and become more interactive. Featuring multiple exhibits that reflect local history.
I remember when it was at the Peirce Mansion, which, even though, being inside a beautiful historic home, was limited in space. I had made several visits to the museum before it moved, so when I heard it was relocating, I was worried for two reasons. First, what would happen to the Peirce Mansion? Second, I hope they know what they’re doing.
In fact, they did know what they were doing. I was even more happy to find out the museum remained free to the public. As for the Peirce Mansion, they period-dated it back to the Victorian era, and now rent it out for events such as weddings, graduation parties and family reunions.
My First Visit After it Opened
When I made my initial visit there in 2011, I remember being amazed at all the local artifacts they were able to include. Everything from Jolly Time Popcorn to Palmer Candy, and grocery store delivery wagons to household items.
Front Desk and Gift Shop
When you first walk in, you are greeted by the clerk at the front desk. I’ve met several employees throughout the years, and they all know their local history. Some have lived here their entire lives, and have seen Sioux City, and surrounding towns, evolve.
Right behind the front desk is the gift shop. There are many local vendors whose items are featured here. You’ll find books and art by local artists and authors. Little trinkets, keychains and knickknacks.
After chatting with the locals, walk around. They encourage picture taking! Take your time, read, watch short films, interact with the displays and ask questions.
Oh, The Things You’ll See and Learn!
You’ll learn about Sioux City’s corn palaces, the Flight 232 crash and the Pelletier Fire. All of which I have covered on my blog. However, there is even more to learn when you are actually seeing artifacts preserved from moments in history.
You’ll see the original 1901 Thorpe’s Jewelers clock, 1893 maps of Sioux City, early 1900s Terra Cotta from historic downtown buildings, Victorian artifacts and a replica of a Pioneer home.
Native American Artifacts
There are many artifacts and extensive history pertaining to the Ho-Chuck, Winnebago and Lakota tribes. Beautifully preserved tribal sashes, leg bands, moccasins and jewelry. Local Native American artists have their drawings represented here, along with handmade tools and pottery.
Stockyards and Loess Hills
Various exhibits illustrate how important the stockyards were to establishing Sioux City as a gateway town to the West; how soybean and corn farms helped sustain our economy; and the many pre-historic artifacts excavated from the surrounding Loess Hills.
Get an Aerial View!
You can even get a view of parts of the museum from above via the skywalk! Just ask the front desk clerk which entrance to take.
Alternating Exhibits and Monthly Seminars
In addition to their permanent exhibits, the museum also features rotating exhibits every three months. I’ve seen dinosaur bones, giant and ornate gemstones, Saudi Arabia artifacts, historical national events and currently they have “Christmas through the Decades” highlighting antique and collectible children’s Christmas toys.
Furthermore, the museum hosts free seminars you can sit in on, called “History at High Noon”. I have attended at least four. I’ve learned about the Sioux City corn palaces, how the neighborhoods got their names, surrounding ghost towns, and just this past Thursday, February 21st, Sioux City’s first grocery stores. Every time I sit in on a lecture, I meet locals who have lived here fifty plus years, and can re-count what the city used to look like, and how it’s changed. It’s truly endearing listening to stories from their childhood.
Plan Your Visit
When you make your visit, be mindful of downtown parking. There are meters, and currently $1.00 gets you an hour. I usually put in enough for two hours when I know I’ll be visiting the museum or art center. If you go on a Saturday, however, you will not need to feed the meter. I have yet to try a parking ramp, but from what I understand the first hour is free, but the rate for the next hour is questionable.
Lastly, make sure to visit the museum’s website (http://www.siouxcitymuseum.org). Keep up to date on local history, and upcoming lectures. You can visit their virtual collections, read up on research information, volunteer and check their events schedule among many others.
Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
712-279-6174
607 4th St
Sioux City, IA 51104