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Des Moines Civil War Round Table
The Des Moines Civil War Round Table is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the study and discussion of the American Civil War, including Iowa’s role in that conflict. The Round Table brings together people who share an interest in Civil War history, including military campaigns, political leadership, soldiers’ experiences, home-front life, and the war’s lasting impact.
Founded in 1965, the Round Table has served Central Iowa’s Civil War enthusiasts for more than sixty years by presenting informative monthly programs, encouraging historical discussion, and fostering fellowship among those interested in one of the most significant periods in American history.
We hold 9 monthly dinner meetings featuring guest speakers who present on a wide range of Civil War topics. Visitors and prospective members are welcome!
Our Mission
Our mission is to educate, inspire, and promote an understanding of the American Civil War through high-quality educational programs, historical scholarship, and fellowship among those who share an interest in Civil War history.
What We Do
Each month, the Round Table hosts a dinner meeting featuring an accomplished speaker presenting a topic related to the Civil War.
Presentation topics have included:
- Military campaigns
- Leadership
- Iowa regiments
- Politics
- Civilian life
- Medicine
- Reconstruction
- Historical preservation
- Many others
Who Should Attend?
The Des Moines Civil War Round Table welcomes:
- Lifelong Civil War students
- Newcomers to Civil War history
- Students
- Teachers
- Genealogists
- Museum supporters
- Anyone interested in American history
Whether you have studied the Civil War for decades or are simply curious to learn more, we invite you to join us.
Officers
The Des Moines Civil War Round Table is led by dedicated volunteers who organize meetings, coordinate guest speakers, manage membership, and preserve the history and mission of the organization.
President – Gordon McKenzie
Treasurer / Secretary – Ron Nurmi has been our long-time Treasurer, and has retied from his role. Much thanks to Ron for his dedicated leadership! Our new Treasurer / Secretary is Dave Moraniec.
Program Chair – John Liepa has been managing the programs for many years, and is retiring from his role. We heartily thank John for all of his years of service! Our new Program Chair is Marv Wilson, with assistance from Jim Rasmussen and Dave Moraniec.
Support the Round Table
The Des Moines Civil War Round Table is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization. Voluntary contributions are tax-deductible, and help support our speakers, educational programs, newsletter, website, and other chapter activities. Online donations are processed through Zeffy, which provides a donation receipt after completion.
Did You Know?
The Des Moines Civil War Round Table has welcomed nationally recognized historians, authors, and preservationists for more than six decades.
Visitors are always welcome.