The Villages of Van Buren is a county-wide, collaborative organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and activating the historic and cultural resources of Van Buren County, Iowa. Comprised of multiple small communities, the Villages collectively steward a landscape of historic buildings, districts, museums, depots, and archeological sites that reflect Iowa’s early settlement and transportation history.

The organization works with local partners to ensure that historic sites are not only maintained, but also actively used and experienced by residents and visitors. Its work spans educational outreach, heritage tourism development, and direct organizational support for historic sites.

Examples of partners include the Bonaparte Pottery & Artisan Market, the Farmington Pioneer Museum, and the Southeast Iowa Depot Tour.

Additionally, the Villages coordinates group tours to historic sites, collaborates with the Historic Hills Scenic Byway on interpretive panels, and promotes heritage assets through ongoing marketing and programming. Its office, located in a late 1800s historic cottage and home to the McCoy Historical Museum, further demonstrates its commitment to active preservation and interpretation.

Photo Credits: Emily Starnes