Our Mission
To kindle and keep alive an active interest in state and local history. Promote interest in local history by historical markers, programs, observations, and pageants of early pioneer history.
Discover, collect, and preserve books, recordings, pamphlets, messages, genealogies, portraits, paintings, relics, manuscripts, letters, journals, surveys, field notes, and any and all articles and materials which may establish, or illustrate the history, of this area and its' various communities.
We will preserve and collect the recollections and reminiscences of those who have taken part in or witnessed the growth of local communities. In addition, collect and preserve the materials of local history and promote the presentation, and display historical relics.
We will ascertain and mark historical sites, see that the public records of counties, cities, and villages are properly preserved and publish such historical matter as the society may authorize.
The Falls
The most significant landmark in the Tri-County area is the waterfall on the North Fork of the Maquoketa River. The falls gave the town of Cascade its name, and the potential waterpower they offered was the original draw for American and European settlement here. In the centuries before pioneer occupation, the falls were well known to the Indigenous peoples of the area, who used them as a canoe portage and likely a fishing site of cultural importance. Today the falls sit in a city park in the town center, offering both a recreational spot and a scenic view.
Historic Communities
The Tri-County region covers much of Dubuque, Jackson, and Jones counties. The towns of Bernard and Fillmore hold particular interest for our members and supporters — the pride locals take in their communities and history outweighs what they have in size or population.
Like many rural communities in this region, they grew up clustered around the churches built by early settlers. With much of the area Catholic, St. Peter's Temple Hill, Sacred Heart Fillmore, New Melleray, and St. Patrick's Garryowen are just a few examples.
The natural history of the region is unique too — we sit at the extreme southern edge of the Driftless Area, known for its eye-catching Iowa scenery.
Rooted in Agriculture
Farming occupies most of the land in the Tri-County area, and the history of Iowa agriculture goes back to our earliest roots. We've watched agriculture develop and change over generations, and preserving its influence is one of the missions of our museum.