Lamoni Sesquicentennial 2029
Celebrating 150 years of community, heritage, and progress
A Historic Milestone
In 2029, Lamoni will celebrate 150 years since its founding in 1879
Our Foundation
Lamoni was established in 1879 as a planned community, designed to embody ideals of cooperation, education, and spiritual growth. From its carefully laid-out streets to its emphasis on learning and culture, Lamoni represented a unique vision for community life in Iowa.
The town quickly became known for its progressive approach to education, establishing Graceland College (now Graceland University) and fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity that continues to this day.
Celebrating Our Journey
The Sesquicentennial celebration will honor both our founding principles and the remarkable journey of growth, adaptation, and resilience that has brought us to 2029. From agricultural innovation to educational excellence, from small-town values to global connections, Lamoni's story is one of continuous evolution while maintaining core values.
This milestone celebration will bring together residents, alumni, historians, and friends of Lamoni from around the world to commemorate our past and envision our future.
Celebration Timeline
Year-long festivities highlighting different aspects of our community heritage
Spring 2029: Founders' Legacy
Opening ceremonies, historical exhibits featuring founding families, restoration of historic buildings, and the launch of the Sesquicentennial time capsule project. Special focus on the vision and sacrifice of Lamoni's founders.
Learn MoreSummer 2029: Community Celebration
The grand Sesquicentennial Festival featuring historical reenactments, traditional crafts demonstrations, musical performances, and a community-wide reunion. Culminating in the official anniversary weekend celebration.
Register for EventsFall 2029: Future Vision
Education symposium, sustainability initiatives showcase, and the dedication of new community projects. Focusing on Lamoni's role in addressing 21st-century challenges while honoring our historical values.
Support InitiativeJoin the Celebration
Help us make the Sesquicentennial a memorable celebration of our community's past, present, and future
Volunteer Opportunities
Join committees for event planning, historical research, community outreach, and celebration logistics. Perfect for those who want to be directly involved in creating this historic celebration.
- Event planning and coordination
- Historical research and exhibits
- Community outreach and publicity
- Hospitality and visitor services
Sponsorship & Donations
Support the celebration through financial contributions, in-kind donations, or business sponsorships. Your support helps ensure we can create a truly memorable anniversary celebration.
- Event sponsorship packages
- Memorial and tribute opportunities
- Business partnership programs
- Legacy project funding
Planning Committee
Meet the dedicated team organizing this historic celebration
Committee Leadership
Richard Higdon
Sesquicentennial Committee Chair
Email: sesqui2029@lamonihistory.org
Paul DeBarthe
Historical Coordination
Email: Phone: (641) 784-3406
Diane Slade
Lamoni Historical Association Secretary
Email: education@lamonihistory.org
Meeting Schedule
Planning meetings are held monthly and are open to all community members interested in participating.
When: Second Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM
Where: Zoom meeting or at Liberty Hall
Next Meeting: December 10, 2024
Upcoming Agenda Items:
- Venue booking for major events
- Historical exhibit planning
- Volunteer coordination systems
- Marketing and publicity strategy