Students participating in a History Mystery program at the State Historical Museum.

    Workshops and Day Camps

    Young historians can learn about Iowa history with unique educational experiences only available at the State Historical Museum of Iowa. Using the museum and exhibits as a unique classroom, participants in these programs will explore the museum and the history of Iowa while examining historical artifacts, diving into historical research and learning special skills.

    Please review the State Historical Museum of Iowa summer day camp/workshop policies for more information about drop-off/pick-up policies, registration, payment, etc. 

    Students at work during Young Writers' Workshop in June 2019.
    Caption Zoom

    Virtual Young Writers' Workshop 2020

    Ages: 12 to 18 years old (entering 7th to 12th Grade)
    Price: $100
    Date: June 15-19, 2020
    Time: 8:30 a.m. - noon, April 19 student reading from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

    The Young Writers' Workshop is a week-long workshop for middle and high school students offered each summer. During the summer of 2020, students will work virtually with a nationally-known young adult author to hone and refine their writing skills in a creative environment. Students will use photos from the museum’s Flickr page for inspiration to craft their historical fiction pieces.

    Throughout the week and over Zoom from the comfort of home, students will participate in icebreaker and writing exercises, verbally share their writing as well as give and accept feedback on the writing. Students will learn about how historic objects and photographs tell stories, talk with award-winning Young Adult historical fiction writers and have plenty of writing, editing, feedback and rewriting time. The week is capped off by students reading their stories over Zoom to friends and family.

    Click here to see the schedule for Virtual Young Writers Workshop 2020.

    Two young participants completing a History Mystery program at the State Historical Museum of Iowa.
    Caption Zoom

    Junior Curator Day Camp

    Ages: 9 to 12 years old (entering 4th to 6th Grade)
    Price: $50
    Dates: July 8
    Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to create and run a museum? Young historians can discover why museums are so important as they explore the roles of curators, conservators and exhibit designers at the State Historical Museum of Iowa. Participants will have a unique opportunity to get up close to investigate historic artifacts, explore the museum's collection vault and learn about Iowa's exciting history. At the end of the day, participants will create an exhibit that will be temporarily on display in the classroom.

    Registration for the 2020 Junior Curator Day Camps is now open. Register your junior curator for the day camp on July 8 at the state historical museum. 

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