History

Step into the past and uncover the stories, people, and events that continue to shape our present. Our history courses offer a fascinating journey through time, exploring everything from Siouxland’s local history to global civilizations and cultural movements.

Dive into mystery with The Private Detective, gain knowledge with the Dunker Leadership Series, travel from your seat with Armchair Travel, and explore unique topics.

Join us to explore the past, connect it to the present, and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around you.

1876 The American Centennial and the First Stolen Election?
1876 The American Centennial and the First Stolen Election?

1876 was the 100th anniversary of the American Experiment in self-government. It was a heady time for America. The Civil War was in the past. The Industrial Revolution was changing business.

Andrew Jackson: Presidential Hero, or the First American Monarch?
Andrew Jackson: Presidential Hero, or the First American Monarch?
Armchair Travel: Sioux City Riverside History
Armchair Travel: Sioux City Riverside History

Embark on a journey into Sioux City's vibrant past and discover how one of its most iconic women's clubs took root in the heart of local history.

Don't Know Much About
Don't Know Much About

Traditionally, when talking about the Constitution, we spend our time telling the stories of the creation, the changes from the Articles of Confederation, and the compromises necessary to finally agree on a Constitution.

Dr. Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series
Dr. Robert E. Dunker Leadership Series

The Robert E. Dunker Leadership Lectures examine and discuss examples of leadership displayed in life by prominent people in America, both nationally and locally.
• Sacagawea - Explorer, Adventurer - and Mother?
• Bill Turner - TV Pioneer

Encounters with Ancient Egypt
Encounters with Ancient Egypt

The civilization of ancient Egypt, which lasted from 3,000 B.C. to 332 B.C., before being conquered by Alexander the Great, continues to enthrall us. Egyptologist Mary Vaught will explore this fascinating world in images and words.

Rock Around the Clock
Rock Around the Clock

Join Russ Gifford as he recreates that vibe for you with a countdown of the first five years of rock and roll, as seen in 1959.

Sioux City Brews
Sioux City Brews

In his presentation titled, Sioux City Brews, Matt Anderson, Curator of History at the Sioux City Public Museum, will trace the history of brewing in Sioux City back to 1860.

Sioux City Home for the Holidays
Sioux City Home for the Holidays

Haley Aguirre, Archival Records Clerk from the Sioux City Public Museum, will present a collection of historic photographs capturing over a century of winter and holiday life in Sioux City.

Sioux City True Crime Files
Sioux City True Crime Files

Although it may seem like violent crimes and horrific homicides have been more prevalent in recent decades and occur most often in major cities, that’s not always true.

The Origins of the Vietnam War: Missed Opportunities and Failed Intelligence
The Origins of the Vietnam War

History instructor and Vietnam veteran Ralph Swain will discuss how the U.S. became embroiled in one of the most contentious and polarizing events in the 20th century.

The Private Eye: Travis McGee
The Private Eye: Travis McGee

As the 1960s dawned, the spy was in, and the private eye was out. But hard boiled PI's still populated the magazine rack, from Shell Scott to Mike Shayne, each with a tongue planted firmly in their cheek.

Two Wars, Three Decades, and a Century of Change: 1914-1945 and Beyond
Two Wars, Three Decades, and a Century of Change: 1914-1945 and Beyond

Looking back at a century since the 'war to end all wars' we will see how the US entry into the battles changed everything.

Victorian-Style Houses in Sioux City
Victorian-Style Houses in Sioux City

Discover the charm and beauty of Victorian-style architecture with Tom Munson, Archives Manager of the Sioux City Public Museum, which was the most popular design in the United States during the late 1800s.