Support

There are many different ways in which you can support the Shelby County Historical Museum. No matter what way you choose to support, you enhance our ability to share the unique history of Shelby County with others. Explore the ways you can support the Shelby County Historical Museum below to find the right fit for you!



Connect with other members of the Shelby County Historical Society through our online platform. Communicate with people across North America who have similar interests or connections to Shelby County and Iowa history. Explore your interests through online, in person, or long-distance research. You will learn through connecting with other members and exploring your own research interests.


Financial donations are vital to the long-term success of the Shelby County Historical Museum. When you donate, you are directly giving to the general operation of our museum. This means you are helping create new exhibits, giving children the opportunity to experience history through field trips, and supporting historic preservation. 

Before passing away in 2008, Wayne Alwill designated the Shelby County Historical Museum as a beneficiary of a portion of his estate. These funds were used to establish an Endowment Fund that would ensure the longevity of our organization. By following in his footsteps and leaving a gift to the Shelby County Historical Museum in your estate plan, you can ensure that your local museum remains a community resource for future generations.


The Shelby County Historical Museum is honored to partner and promote our business members. Business memberships help to support our mission of providing historic education to everyone. Whether big or small, we appreciate every business we have the pleasure of working with. 


For more than fifty years the Shelby County Historical Museum has relied on volunteers. Volunteers have archived artifacts, conducted research for members, and most importantly shared the history of Shelby County. Without the help of volunteers the Shelby County Historical Museum would only be an idea; it was a group of volunteers who had an idea and started the Shelby County Historical Museum in 1964. We are always happy to welcome and train new volunteers.


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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