Emmetsburg, Iowa - Cultural Exhibits

Hobson Rock Collection

The wife of local optometrist, Dr. A.H. Hobson (1912-1990) donated his vast collection of rocks, Indian artifacts, antique eyeglasses, walking canes and scale models to the Emmetsburg Public Library after his death. All are on display at the Wellness Center complex or in the library. Scale models of nineteenth century transportation are on display in the leisure reading area of the library. His eyeglass and walking stick collection are in the Mary Barbara Smith Room.

In addition, many of his rock specimens are available for check out from the Emmetsburg Public Library to Educational institutions.

Vandervelde Primitive Cultures Collection (VPCC)

The purpose of the Vandervelde Primitive Cultures Collection, housed at the Smith Wellness Center Complex and Emmetsburg Public Library, is to preserve for future generations the life works of Emmetsburg, Iowa, long-time citizen, Marjorie Mills Vandervelde.

Mrs. Vandervelde has traveled the world as a photojournalist with the purpose of "building bridges among cultures". She has done this by traveling and living among various peoples. She has shared her experiences and the lives of those with whom she has lived through her writings of hundreds of stories, articles, books and many photos.

This collection is a permanent exhibit of Mrs. Vandervelde's writings, photographs, primitive artifacts, correspondence and precious letters from famous persons. The collection is unique in that there are over 250 artifacts, 30 letters from famous people, recordings of published materials and books, as well as documentation of Mrs. Vandervelde's involvement in the education of primitives. Donations include Mola Art of the Kuna Indians of San Blas, Panama. The collection items span from 1800's to present.

Schools and communities may request a traveling Treasure Chest exhibit for on-loan-education as part of this exhibit. The Treasure Chest permits hands-on use of items of interest that will educate as well as encourage further interest in the permanent exhibit. The Iowa Lakes exhibit includes rotating photo, primitive artifacts, and Mola Art. The permanent exhibit focuses on "The Life of Marjorie Mills Vandervelde" through four large panels. They include her family and history, her association with many "Faces of Mankind" and the Choco and Kuna Indians of Central and South America. Donations may be sent to ILCC Foundation, VPCC, Emmetsburg, Iowa, to assure the maintenance of this wonderful collection.

City of Emmetsburg
2021 Main St
Emmetsburg, IA 50536
(712) 852-4030