Updated: 2/23/2012 
African American Museum of Iowa
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Description

Iowan history showcased via interactive exhibits and exciting educational programs. Because African American history is American history.

Mission

To preserve, publicize, and educate the public on the African American heritage and culture of Iowa.

History

The heritage of African Americans in Iowa was in danger of being lost without major efforts to preserve it. In 1994, a small group from Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids began the project in celebration of Black History Month.

Programs
Public Programs

Whether our curator is speaking on Iowa’s Tuskegee Airmen, a local expert is presenting on their favorite topic, or our Education staff is offering History in the Park, the museum is always on the move.

ICNS

Not all students or homeschool groups can make a trip to the museum, so we use the wonders of technology to bring the museum to you. We offer ICN classes during the school year on a variety of topics, and like all of our workshops, they tie to the Iowa Core Curriculum. Sign up for one today!

Traveling Exhibits

Our traveling exhibits are a great way to showcase Iowa’s African American history. Covering a variety of topics, these displays pack small and impact large. See our website to learn more about traveling exhibits.

Library

Access: Scholars, Members

Appointment required: True

Services
Celebration Hall Rental

The African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) offers two spaces for rent.

1.Aldeen Davis Celebration Hall – Located within the AAMI this facility looks out over the Harper Terrace and the Cedar River Trail to the Cedar River and can hold 240 persons theater style or 200 at round tables seating 8 per table. The Hall is equipped with a audio/visual system and projection screen and has an attached catering kitchen. This space is a common site for wedding receptions, community forums and business workshops.

2. AEGON Learning Lab – Located within the AAMI, this meeting room can hold 35 people. It offers a projection screen and audio capabilities, and is also home to the AAMI’s Library. This room is often used as a classroom, for business retreats or for small community gatherings.

The Nikee Gift Shop

Nikee is an Ghanaian word meaning “gift.” Our current offerings include art prints, books, magnets and cards–all with an African or African American flare. The Nikee Gift Shop has an excellent selection of gifts imported from Africa and many areas of the United States. You will find everything from traditional pieces like drums, sculptures and figurines, to hand-beaded necklaces and earrings – even 3D magnets. It also offers a large collection of art prints, greeting cards and books regarding Africa and African American history. These books vary from local to global levels and illustrate the impact that African American culture and inventions have made on our society.

Gift Shop
Event Rental
Group Tours
DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

MUSEUM CONFERENCES

March 31 - April 3, 2025

Arkansas Museums Association 2025 Conference

Historic Washington State Park

Washington, Arkansas

April 5 - 8, 2025

New York Museum Association 2025 Conference in Ithaca, NY

Ithaca Downtown Conference Center

Ithaca, New York

April 6 - 8, 2025

Nebraska Museum Association 2025 Conference

Hosted by the Knight Museum in Alliance, Nebraska

United States

April 6 - 9, 2025

Texas Association of Museums 2025 Conference Austin

AT&T Conference Center

Austin, Texas

April 27 - 29, 2025

Oregon Museum Association 2025 Conference

TBA

Independence, Oregon

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