Ames History Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1980 as Ames Heritage Association. Our founder was Ames historian, Farwell T. Brown, whose historical writings and research have inspired residents to appreciate and preserve the history of Ames. The immediate impetus for founding of the Association was the opportunity to save and restore Ames’ first schoolhouse, Hoggatt School. Other ventures have included the Bauge Log Home and the Story Center pilot museum. The organization’s name was changed to Ames Historical Society in 2003 and then Ames History Museum in 2019. The organization currently maintains the Ames History Museum and Hoggatt School. Now with three full-time staff members, the museum provides preservation for a collection of archives and artifacts, exhibits, research assistance, and programming to connect Ames residents and visitors with the past.

Ames History Museum will receive $400,000 in Enhance Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism funds if they are able to raise an additional $125,000 in community support. Help them reach this goal!

Museum Expansion Project
The museum’s expansion project includes restoration of the historic Ames Pantorium, renovation of the museum building at the corner of 5th and Douglas, and an addition to the east.

The Making History Capital Campaign provides for:

  • Preservation and restoration of the Ames Pantorium building and its historical and architectural significance
  • Welcoming and unique gathering spaces for community use
  • Five times the current exhibit gallery space with a focus on active learning and discovery for all ages, creating a travel destination in downtown Ames
  • Room to house and care for artifacts and archival materials on-site, allowing for the preservation of local history for future generations
  • Exhibits and programs in the expanded museum will bring visitors to downtown Ames, foster community pride, and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the past.