Driven by Hope

Explore the history of African American migration to Iowa from the end of the Civil War to the Great Depression. Immerse yourself in the history of Iowa and the stories and events that brought African Americans to the state. The “Driven by Hope” exhibit provides a deeper understanding of the economic, social, and political issues of the American South that pushed African Americans North and the issues migrants faced when establishing themselves in Iowa. You’ll also hear stories from modern migrants and immigrants to Iowa and learn how the struggles they’ve faced can be traced to post-Civil War America.

Funded project of Iowa Humanities, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.