Step into a world of rich cultural heritage and history at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This fascinating institution is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the stories, traditions, and contributions of Czech and Slovak Americans. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of culture, or simply looking for an engaging day out, the NCSML offers a unique and enriching experience.
The journey of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library began in 1974, thanks to the vision and dedication of several second and third-generation Czech Americans in the Cedar Rapids area. They founded the Czech Fine Arts Foundation with the mission to preserve their heritage and culture. By 1978, their growing collection of artifacts and documents necessitated the opening of a Czech Museum in a modest three-room house. This humble beginning marked the start of a remarkable journey.
In 1983, the museum moved to its current location and acquired a 19th-century immigrant home, which was restored and furnished in the style of the 1880s and 1890s. This move was a significant step towards creating a permanent public display. Over the years, the museum continued to grow, attracting more artifacts, financial contributions, and dedicated volunteers. By the 1990s, it became clear that a larger facility was needed to accommodate the expanding collection.
On October 21, 1995, the NCSML's new building was dedicated in a grand ceremony attended by U.S. President Bill Clinton, Czech President Václav Havel, and Slovakian President Michal Kováč. This event marked a new era for the museum, with a 16,000-square-foot facility that could better serve its mission. The dedication attracted a crowd of 7,000 people, highlighting the importance of the museum to the community and beyond.
The NCSML has hosted numerous significant exhibitions over the years. In 1997, it opened the international exhibition A Thousand Years of Czech Culture: Riches from the National Museum in Prague, which attracted over 30,000 visitors from around the world. This was followed by the permanent exhibit Homelands: The Story of the Czech and Slovak People in 1998, and the museum's first history and culture conference in 1999.
In 2000, the museum underwent significant renovations, adding secure and climate-controlled storage facilities and a new venue for temporary exhibits. The library's collection also doubled with the acquisition of the Slavic language collection from Benedictine University. The museum began publishing Slovo, a biannual academic journal on history and culture, further establishing itself as a center of scholarship and learning.
In June 2008, disaster struck when the Cedar River overflowed its banks, flooding the NCSML with eight feet of water. The flood caused severe damage, valued at $8 to $9 million, and destroyed two exhibits. However, the museum staff's quick action saved many artifacts and documents. The flood also highlighted the museum's resilience and determination to rebuild and continue its mission.
After the flood, the museum temporarily relocated to Lindale Mall and later to the Kosek Building, where it continued to serve the community while planning its recovery. The Iowa General Assembly allocated $10 million for the museum's rebuilding efforts, and the Czech Republic contributed $405,000. The museum decided to move its building to higher ground rather than demolishing it, preserving its historic value and avoiding unnecessary landfill waste.
On June 8-9, 2011, the NCSML building was moved 480 feet to a new, elevated foundation. This monumental move was a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving its history while ensuring its future. The new site is 11 feet higher than the previous location and three feet above the 2008 flood level, providing greater protection against future floods.
The rebuilt facility, which reopened in 2012, is significantly expanded to 50,000 square feet. It includes larger permanent and temporary exhibition galleries, an expanded research library, educational programming space, a new museum store, and more. The new facility is LEED-certified, reflecting the museum's commitment to sustainability.
Today, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is a vibrant cultural institution that attracts visitors from around the world. It offers a range of exhibitions, educational programs, and events that celebrate Czech and Slovak heritage. Highlights include the Crown Jewels Exhibition, the One O’Clock Gun tradition, and the National War Museum of Scotland.
Visitors can also explore the beautifully restored 19th-century immigrant home, which provides a glimpse into the lives of Czech and Slovak immigrants in the 1880s and 1890s. The museum's library holds an extensive collection of Slovak and Czech-related items, making it a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is more than just a museum; it is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Czech and Slovak communities. Its rich history, engaging exhibitions, and commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination in Cedar Rapids. Whether you're exploring the past or looking to learn something new, the NCSML offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and enriched.
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