Oral History Project

20 Jan 2021 9:58 AM | Anonymous

The Shelby County Historical Museum is working to document the history of Shelby County and the experiences of its residents through recorded interviews through the Oral History Project. This opportunity is open to all individuals, we are interested in hearing from a diverse group of individuals who have a connection to Shelby County. Oral history interviews are a great way for future generations to learn about the history of Shelby County and learn about the past experiences of family members. 

Are you interested in sharing your experiences in Shelby County?

First, contact the Shelby County Historical Museum and we will create an appointment for your interview. We will then send you the Oral History Release Form to sign. On the date of your interview you will sit down with one of our volunteers for a recorded interview, which typically last from forty minutes to two hours. The interviewer will ask questions about your life in relation to Shelby County, you are always able to decline to answer questions. At the end of your interview the Shelby County Historical Museum will keep your recorded interview as part of our collection, you will retain the copyright and recording for the interview.

What are some basic questions you will be asked at your interview?

  1. How did your family come to live in Shelby County? Where was your family originally from?
  2. What is your earliest childhood memory?
  3. What schools did you attend? What was school like for you?
  4. Did your family have any special holiday traditions?
  5. What world events had the most impact on you while you were growing up (Great Depression, wars, etc.)? Did any of them personally affect your family?
  6. How has Shelby County changed since you have lived here (businesses, atmosphere, population, etc.)?
  7. What is/was your profession and how did you choose it?

We appreciate you thinking about participating in our Oral History Project!


The Shelby County Historical Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 1964. This four building complex is located at 1805 Morse Avenue Harlan, Iowa 51537.

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