The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center began in 1969 as the Linn County Historical Museum Association. From its early beginnings preserving the history of Linn County has been prominent in the hearts and minds of its volunteers.
By the early 1990's the Linn County Historical Museum Association had become the Linn County Historical Society and The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center was a museum on Eighth Avenue at First Street in Cedar Rapids.
As additional professional staff was hired, the goals of the museum became more ambitious. In 1997, a capital campaign began to build a new museum on First Avenue and Sixth Street.
On June 15, 1999, The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center opened its doors and helped the city of Cedar Rapids celebrate its Sesquicentennial. The past year has brought almost 28,000 people through the doors of The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center and 5,400 students have participated in its programs.
