Indian Artifact Museum - Bentonsport 21929 Des Moines St., Bentonsport View an extensive collection of Indian artifacts including an impressive display of arrowheads. The artifacts are displayed in intricately designed inlaid wood showcases. Open weekends or by chance. National Historic Bonaparte Pottery Archaeological Site 411 First St., Bonaparte 319-592-3620 bonaparte-pottery.com Established in 1865, the pottery produced a variety of stoneware until 1896. Archaeological digging continues and several original pieces have been found. Take a fascinating guided tour through Iowa’s only remaining pottery site and then visit the gallery and museum with a wide range of unique pottery. Historically exact pieces available from the 1875 molds. Email: mdtompot@netins.net Twombly Museum - Keosauqua 801 First St., Keosauqua 641-431-0581 Voltaire Twombly was the first Iowan to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. In 1875, he established a mercantile on the first floor and his home above in this landmark limestone building. Museum artifacts showcase the rich history of Van Buren County. Open by appt. Pearson House Museum Complex - Keosauqua 718 Dodge St., Keosauqua 641-431-0581 This stone and brick house was built c. 1845. A trap door hiding place under the floor, which can still be viewed, endorse local legacy this was a station on the Underground Railroad, a dramatic escape route for runaway slaves. Also featured is a one-room schoolhouse with original desks. The Log Cabin is furnished for 1800’s living. Open Sun. 1p. - 4p. (Memorial Day - Mid Oct.) or by appointment. Van Buren County Courthouse - Keosauqua 902 Fourth St., Keosauqua 319-293-3129 Listed on the National Register of Historic Places this 1843 courthouse is the oldest in Iowa which has remained in continuous use and the second oldest in the United States. In 1846, the courthouse was the scene of the first legal death sentencing and hanging in Iowa. Open for free tours, Mon.-Fri. 8a. - 4p. Pioneer Museum - Farmington 205 S. 4th St., Farmington 319-470-3421 / 319-878-3714 / 319-878-3785 The First Congregational Church of Farmington was built in January 1848. It was modeled after the rural New England churches, and houses many artifacts and historical items. It is the second oldest Congregational Church building West of the Mississippi. Open House on May 11, June 8-9, Oct. 12-13, Dec. 7-8 & 14-15. Open weekends 1 - 4p. (Apr. 1- Oct) or by appt. 9 villagesofvanburen.com H I S T O R I C A L S I T E S