Past Grant Recipients

The Historic Preservation Grant program provides an opportunity for local non-profit organizations to apply for funds to assist with historic preservation projects within Linn County. There is $28,800 available in funding annually, with a majority of the awards being in the $5,000 range. Since its inception in 1980, Linn County has awarded over one million dollars in funding toward 238 historic preservation projects in Linn County.

Each year, the grant recipients are required to produce a final report detailing their use of the funds received from the grant program. Below are some of the final reports.

Previously Funded Grant Projects

  • Brucemore: The historic mansion is using its grant funds toward an envelope restoration project, which focuses on keeping the elements out of the mansion by improving seals and structures around all doors and windows. Watch the video to see progress on the project and learn more about the mansion.
  • Coggon Community Historical Society: The society used its grant funds for a window glazing project on Coggon’s Historical Hall. Watch the video to learn more and see the completed project.
  • Genealogical Society of Linn County: The society used their grant funds to upgrade their technology to improve programming and work efficiency. Watch the video to see the upgraded items.
  • National Czech and Slovak Museum: The museum used its grant funds to purchase specialized storage for glassware donations. Watch the video to learn more about storage “P.”
  • Seminole Valley Farmhouse: The Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation Department received grant funds to replace the roof on the Seminole Valley Farmhouse. Watch the video to learn more about the project.
  • Springville Cemetery: The Daughters of the American Revolution Mayflower Chapter used its grant funds to repair the Brown Monument in the Springville Cemetery. Watch the video to see the repairs.
  • Troy Mills Historical Society: The society used its funds to restore and preserve a map of Linn County from 1879. Watch the video to see the restored map for yourself.
  • The History Center:  The center used its funds to digitize historic films for public release in August 2021. Watch the video to learn more about the upcoming release of “Films from the Attic.”