Events and Activities

Everyone is encouraged to participate in the programs and activities sponsored by the Urbandale Historical Society. You do not have to be a member or an Urbandale resident to participate.

Learn more about some of these opportunities as Janice Winey and Virginia Gee view highlights of some past events.

Historical Society Meetings

Monthly meetings of the Historical Society are held September - April at the Olmsted-Urban House. Programs of historical or general interest are presented, and refreshments are served. Topics are of interest not just to Urbandale residents but those throughout the metro area. There is not a formal business meeting.

Due to Labor Day, the September meeting is scheduled for the second Monday. Other meetings are the first Monday evening of the month at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Please call 276-0222 for more information or for upcoming schedule of program topics.

Open House

Open house for those who wish to visit the Olmsted-Urban House, and barn, is scheduled first Sunday of the Month from 2-4 pm:

Sunday, January 6, 2013 - Open House 2-4 pm

Sunday, February 3, 2013 - Open House 2-4 pm

Sunday, March 3, 2013 - Open House 2-4 pm

Sunday, April 7, 2013 - Open House 2-4 pm

This is an opportunity to learn more of the history of Urbandale. There is no admission charge.

Special Programs

Special programs are scheduled first Monday of the month at 7 pm.

Monday, January 7, 2013 - 6 pm Soup Supper, 7 pm Program "Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation"

Monday, February 4, 2013 - 7 pm Program: "Advertising with the Brownies"

Monday, March 4, 2013 - 7 pm Program: "Civil War Fashions"

Monday, April 1, 2013 - 7 pm Program: "Old Businesses at 70th and Douglas"

Board Meetings

Board meetings are third Monday of the month at 7 pm. Meetings are open to the public.

Plant Sale

Save the date Saturday, May 4 at 9 am. More information coming!

Bus Trips -

Since 1993 the Historical Society has sponsored day-long bus trips to interesting spots around Iowa. Cost includes transportation, lunch and any admission fee.

Traditionally scheduled in May and October, check this website closer to those months for complete information on destinations and how to register.

Ice Cream Social

The Annual Ice Cream Social is a fund-raiser held the last Sunday in June. Please plan to attend next year on June 30, 2013.

2011 year's event was a great success and enjoyed by all. (Photo's of the event courtesy of the Des Moines Register.)

City of Urbandale Events

Information about what is happening in Urbandale can be found on the city's website.