The Dutch American Heritage Museum celebrated a year of meaningful partnerships, expanded programming, and increased community reach. Highlights included participating in the 2025 Gezellig Christmas Market, collaborating with the Queen’s Costume Committee to showcase the 2025 Queen and Court costume, and hosting Northwestern College speakers—along with a special presentation from Dutch guest Ton Sels. The museum also partnered with the Orange City Public Library, continued to display the Legion “Hometown Heroes” banners, and welcomed the Iowa History Bus for King’s Day.
Attendance surged throughout the year. Nights at the Museum events drew nearly 600 visitors, stipwerk workshops engaged participants during Tulip Festival and throughout the year, and tours served families, tourists, school groups, and local clubs. With a strong social media presence and online programming, the museum reached over 2,200 people in person and virtually.
Physical updates included a newly opened wedding dress exhibit and more than 140 hours of volunteer time dedicated to refreshing the museum’s buildings. The museum also welcomed Abby Stizmann, who is completing her Master’s capstone by cataloging and preserving the collection.
From special events to new exhibits, 2025 has been a year of meaningful progress as the museum continues to preserve and share the stories that shape Orange City.
