Open year round

Wednesday through Sunday, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. or by appointment

The Marion Heritage Center was originally a church building used by the Methodists from the 1850s until 1875. Today, it serves as a community center for educational programs, historical displays, art exhibits, and cultural events for audiences of all ages. Displays showcase the history of Marion and its citizens, while lectures and workshops provide insights into the town's past. Gift items and space for small groups to meet are also available.

"From the Attic" opens September 1, 2011. This exhibit showcases a wide variety of items generously donated to the permanent colleciton of the marion Historical Society.  The exhibit has something for everyone and many of the items on are on display for the first time.  The exhibit will continue through the end of the year. 

"Tales from the Rails" is a permanent model railroad display of the Marion rail system located on second floor. Focusing on the time period of the mid-1960's to mid-1970's, the display will highlight the area from the overpass on 7th Avenue, through downtown, and past the switching yards to Highway 13. The construction of this display will continue to mid-January 2012.  Supporters of this project include: The Linn County Board of Supervisors, the Giacoletto Foundation, Marion Lion's Club, Quester Bloomer Girls 823, and Marion Historical Society members.

“Communication by Mail” Fresco Dedication

The Heritage Center is pleased to be the permanent home for a unique artwork. The fresco, "Communication by Mail" completed in 1939 by Dan Rhodes for the then new post office, reflects not just the postal service but also Marion's railroad history. One of only three true fresco murals in Iowa, it was moved to the Marion Heritage Center in 2008 for restoration and preservation.