DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate today unveiled a new display case to house Iowa’s original 1857 Iowa Constitution. As a demonstration of the state’s commitment to transparency and accessibility, Iowa’s Constitution is on display for the public to view in the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office during normal business hours.
This new protective case replaces the previous 1980s-era display and adds room for three more historic documents while offering enhanced preservation measures. The new display case, manufactured and constructed by Iowa-based companies, features UV-protection acrylic, temperature and humidity meters to ensure the case stays within safe levels and moisture-absorbing canisters.
“We take great pride in being able to display this historic document in our office for Iowans,” said Secretary Pate. “When Iowans can see their state’s original constitution with their own eyes, it creates a powerful connection between Iowa citizens and the document that established their fundamental rights and freedoms. It can transform the abstract idea of history into something deeply meaningful.”
The display case was manufactured by Notch & Nail, based out of Johnston, and the acrylic was sourced from Midland Plastics, based out of Des Moines, with support provided by the Iowa State Historical Museum.
The additional documents displayed within the case include land record books denoting the transfer of Iowa land to President Abraham Lincoln and a rotation of historic documents important to Iowa history.
Secretary Pate unveiled the case to the public at the Iowa State Capitol on Thursday. Leaders from the State Historical Museum, Iowa State University, Notch & Nail, and Midland Plastics were also in attendance.
“I encourage every Iowan and traveler passing through the state to make the trip to the Iowa State Capitol and view these important pieces of Iowa history,” added Secretary Pate.
The Iowa Secretary of State’s Office is located on the first floor of the Iowa State Capitol and is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Photos of the Constitution being carefully moved from its previous case to the new case by staff from the Iowa State Historical Museum and the Iowa Secretary of State's Office are available.
Photos of Secretary Pate unveiling the new display case in the Iowa State Capitol Rotunda are available.
