N-10, silk company flag of the 10th Iowa Infantry Regiment, c. 1862,  was placed on display today at the State Historical Society of Iowa, 2nd Floor exhibits, Flag Hallway.  The flag will be on display until October 18, 2011.  On special display is the associated belt of Color Sgt. J. Gower.  Gower was utilizing the belt to help support the flag when a bullet struck the belt and buckle deflecting it from his lower abdomen.  The belt was wrapped around the flag staff and sent back to Iowa.  In 2004, it was rediscovered and once again the story of the "life saving" belt was revealed to the public.

Volunteer Conservators Dave Thompson and Ken Lindblom work to remove the surface grime from this Civil War flag.  The flag has a heavy layer of coal dust on it.  The sponges are carefully pressed onto the fabric lifting the debris. 

"Southern Rights" flag at Historic Battle of Athens Site

Period dressed educators view the historic Battle of Athens flag.  This was the first time this flag had been back at the original site of use in 150 years and one day.  This flag was captured by Moore's home guard from Martin Green's Missouri militia.  It was held by a member of Moore's guard, Mr. D. Beaman, until 1901when he donated it to the State Historical Society of Iowa.

The flag was heavily souvenired by Moore's men after capturing it.  Souveniring refers to cutting a section of the flag as a symbol of victory.  From historical research the flag would have originally had 15 stars appliqued to the canton with a bear design at center.

Association of Midwest Museums Conference

The annual conference features outstanding sessions, workshops, dynamic speakers, and exciting tours and receptions at museums in the host community. Approximately 400 - 500 museum professionals attend the annual AMM Conference.  It was fun and informative.   And we have a lot of new outreach ideas.