By Johnson County Museum Director Mary McMurray, Ph.D.
As we close another year, I find myself reflecting on the wonderful ways this community continues to show up for its history — and how, together, we keep shaping what’s ahead. At the Johnson County Museum, our mission is to preserve and share the county’s stories in ways that spark curiosity, foster connection, and empower lifelong learning. This year reminded us again and again just how meaningful that work can be.
A year of impact
“Ripples: Water, Community, and You” made waves of its own
Our signature 2025 exhibit, “Ripples: Water, Community, and You,” inspired deep conversation and community partnerships. Through collaborations with scientists, planners, parks leaders, and regional water specialists, we brought vital stories about water to life.
Visitors joined guided tours and programs, students filled the galleries on field trips, and a companion book extended these stories far beyond our walls. Together, we made ripples of our own — proof that small actions can create big change.
More than 45,000 visitors welcomed
This year, more than 45,000 visitors explored KidScape, toured the All-Electric House, researched local histories, explored the Lanesfield Historic Site, and discovered new stories about the place they call home. We’re grateful for every visit and the sense of community each person brings through our doors.
Growing spaces for families
In KidScape, we introduced thoughtful enhancements to keep the space fresh, fun, and rooted in imagination.
The All-Electric House shone brighter than ever with two special exhibits:
“Home for the Holidays: A Homemade Christmas”
“The White Wedding: A New Postwar Tradition”
Both helped visitors experience the spirit, style, and nostalgia of postwar Johnson County in new ways.
Improving access for all
At the Lanesfield Historic Site, with the help of our county partners, we completed important ADA improvements, ensuring more people can fully access and enjoy this iconic one-room schoolhouse.
Across the museum, we also hosted four Community Free Days, each generously supported by sponsors who believe in access and inclusion.
Launching a new community conversation
This year we convened the first Legacies of Redlining Summit, focused on the Blue River watershed and the impacts of suburban water practices on formerly redlined communities. Entirely sponsor-supported and aligned with our newly-launched strategic plan, the summit expanded the work of our award-winning “REDLINED: Cities, Suburbs, and Segregation” exhibit and helped our community engage more deeply with issues of equity, environment, and infrastructure.
Providing an Educational Resource
Our school-based education programs continued to grow. We welcomed more than 4,500 students on field trips at the Johnson County Museum and Lanesfield Historic Site, and we engaged nearly 2,000 more through out-of-school programs, Scout Nights, Retro Storytimes, and other educational programming. Inspiring the next generation — right here at home — is at the heart of what we do.
Looking ahead to 2026
The coming year promises to be extraordinary. As Johnson County joins the nation in marking America250 — and prepares to welcome the world for the international soccer celebration — we are ready with new exhibits and programs that speak to both.
Introducing “Everyday Democracy”
Opening in 2026, “Everyday Democracy” will explore 250 years of American ideals through the lived experience of Johnson County. Moving through six time periods — from 1776 to 2026 — the exhibit examines how people here have navigated life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in changing landscapes, from frontier farms to booming suburbs to imagined futures. It ends with a futurist element asking people to imagine what those founding ideals will look like 50 years from now.
Crafted especially for America250, it’s a story about democracy lived, not just declared.
A new look at a mid-century icon
We’re also opening a special exhibit about the All-Electric House itself — how it was built, what it promised, and why it continues to fascinate visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect companion for a year when the region will be welcoming visitors from around the globe.
And more is coming: new programs, new partnerships, and new ways to connect our community through shared history.
Gratitude to a community that makes it all possible
None of this work happens alone.
Our volunteers offer smiling faces and warm welcomes that define the museum experience. Our board members contribute their time, talent, and treasure, providing leadership that carries us forward. And our sponsors make so many things possible — Community Free Days, “Ripples,” the Emerging Museum Professional Internship, KidScape enhancements, and more.
But most of all, we are grateful for you — our community.
You are our reason for doing this work. Whether you visit with excited (or occasionally tearful-they-have-to-leave) children, join a tour, research a family story, or simply stop in to see what’s new, we’re honored that you find a place for yourself here.
History is an ongoing, collective effort. It’s the daily work of making community — together. We hope the stories you encounter at the museum inspire, empower, and embolden you as we step into 2026.
Thank you for a remarkable year. We can’t wait to welcome you in the next one!
— Mary McMurray
