William Wagner: Iowa's Father of Historic Preservation
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Join the Des Moines Historical Society for a special members-only presentation by Mark Hanson, curator of the Wagner Collection at the Dallas County Forest Park Museum.
Architect, artist, historian, and preservation advocate William "Bill" Wagner devoted more than 40 years to preserving Iowa's historic buildings and landmarks. Known as Iowa's "father of historic preservation," Wagner helped save many of the state's most significant historic places, including Terrace Hill, while documenting Iowa's architectural heritage through his renowned pen-and-ink sketches.
Drawing from the Wagner Collection, Mark Hanson will share Wagner's remarkable story, preservation work, artistic legacy, and lasting impact on Iowa history.
Saturday, June 27, 2026
1:00–3:00 PM
Mickle Center Community Room
Before attending, explore Wagner's sketches of all 99 Iowa counties and pick your favorite from your home county. Find William Wagner Historical Sketches here: https://www.dallascountyiowa.gov/393/William-Wagner-Historical-Sketches
This program is a benefit of Des Moines Historical Society membership. Not yet a member? Join at the event or contact [email protected] for membership information.
Register today and join us as we explore the life and legacy of William "Bill" Wagner.
Architect, artist, historian, and preservation advocate William "Bill" Wagner devoted more than 40 years to preserving Iowa's historic buildings and landmarks. Known as Iowa's "father of historic preservation," Wagner helped save many of the state's most significant historic places, including Terrace Hill, while documenting Iowa's architectural heritage through his renowned pen-and-ink sketches.
Drawing from the Wagner Collection, Mark Hanson will share Wagner's remarkable story, preservation work, artistic legacy, and lasting impact on Iowa history.
Saturday, June 27, 2026
1:00–3:00 PM
Mickle Center Community Room
Before attending, explore Wagner's sketches of all 99 Iowa counties and pick your favorite from your home county. Find William Wagner Historical Sketches here: https://www.dallascountyiowa.gov/393/William-Wagner-Historical-Sketches
This program is a benefit of Des Moines Historical Society membership. Not yet a member? Join at the event or contact [email protected] for membership information.
Register today and join us as we explore the life and legacy of William "Bill" Wagner.
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Where is it happening?
Mickle Center, 1620 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50314-1641, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherDes Moines Historical Society
