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Upcoming Events...
Locked Up in History: The Squirrel Cage Jail, Monday, October 5, 6:30 pm.
Imagine a jail where the jailer does’t have to walk to his prisoners; he can turn a crank, rotating a 90,000 cage and bring the prisoners to him, one at a time. Possible? It’s been done. But only once. Join us for about and from the most unique building in the Metro. The program will be presented by the museum’s manager, Holly Marsh, and Society president Dr. Richard Warner at the Council Bluffs Public Library. There is no admission charge.
Squirrel Cage Jail Flashlight Tours, October 2026
Squirrel Cage Jail Flashlight Tours, October 2026
The Society provides a different twist on the Squirrel Cage Museum by hosting evening tours conducted by flashlight. The dim light more closely reflects the conditions in the cell block during most of the jail’s operation— there was no electric lighting in the cells until 1960. It also makes for a captivating atmosphere to describe some of the more grim persons who for a time once called the building home, such as axe murderer Jake Bird, those who met their untimely end in the jail, and the sites in the building where the escape-proof jail showed itself to be anything but. Coming October, 2026; dates to be announced.
Historical Society Annual Business Meeting, Wednesday, November 18
The annual business meeting of the Historical Society of Pottawattamie County has been set for November 18; time and location to be announced. The annual meeting is the time when a comprehensive look is taken at finances, operations, the strategic plan and members have an opportunity to change the bylaws. Everyone is welcome, but only HSPC members are eligible to vote. As November 18 happens to be the birthday of Mickey Mouse, a short program "The Mouse and the Metro" will precede the program, detailing local talent and adventures that have been a part of the Disney legend over the years. The program will be presented by Richard Warner.
Historic Homes for the Holidays Tour, December 2026
Historic Homes for the Holidays Tour, December 2026
Christmas is all about tradition, and there’s no better way to hook up with holiday heritage than a visit to some of Council Bluffs’ most historic homes, who’ve decked their halls in seasonal splendor. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Society's annual Historic Homes for the Holidays tour. The date will be announced soon.
Beatles and the Bluffs, Part 3, Monday, December 14, 6:30 pm.
Join us for part three of this popular series in which Brian Mainwaring links the music of Britain's Fab Four to the music and entertainment scene here in the Metro. The program will be at the Council Bluffs Public Library; there is no admission charge.
Historical Society Members Only: History of the lake, from the lake
Learn the history of Lake Manawa on this pontoon boat excursion around what was once called The Mecca of the Midwest. The tours are scheduled for August 5, 12, and 26 at 7:30 pm. Tour conducted by Jon Barnes and Troy Stolp. Though there is no charge for the tour, due to limited seating preregistration is required.
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