Clay County Seeks Local History Experts for 175th Anniversary

The county is looking for volunteers to help celebrate its milestone year.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:11pm

A bold, graphic illustration of an antique clock or pocket watch repeated in a grid of bright, contrasting colors, conceptually representing the passage of time and the rich history of Clay County.A vibrant pop art celebration of Clay County's 175-year history.Spencer Today

The Clay County Historical Society is seeking volunteers from across the county to serve as local history experts and help tell the story of Clay County's 175-year anniversary in 2026. The historical society is looking to have at least one expert per town to participate in the celebrations.

Why it matters

Celebrating local history and community milestones is an important way for small towns to come together, preserve their unique identities, and pass down traditions to future generations. The 175th anniversary provides an opportunity for Clay County residents to reflect on their shared past and take pride in their local heritage.

The details

The Clay County Historical Society is coordinating the 175th-anniversary celebrations and is putting out a call for volunteers to serve as local history experts. The society is hoping to have at least one expert per town in Clay County to help share the stories and traditions of their communities. Interested residents are encouraged to contact the Clay County Heritage Center in Spencer as soon as possible to get involved.

  • Clay County will celebrate its 175th anniversary in 2026.
  • The historical society is looking to have local experts identified and involved in the planning process ahead of the 2026 celebrations.

The players

Clay County Historical Society

The organization responsible for preserving and promoting the history of Clay County, Iowa.

Susan Christiansen

A representative from the Clay County Historical Society who is coordinating the search for local history experts to participate in the 175th-anniversary celebrations.

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What they’re saying

“Clay County prefers to celebrate community birthdays in 25-year increments. 2026 is one of those years.”

— Susan Christiansen, Representative, Clay County Historical Society

“We're looking for at least one expert PER TOWN to help tell the story.”

— Susan Christiansen, Representative, Clay County Historical Society

What’s next

Interested residents in Clay County are encouraged to contact the Clay County Heritage Center in Spencer as soon as possible to get involved in the 175th-anniversary celebrations as local history experts.

The takeaway

Preserving local history and celebrating community milestones is an important way for small towns to foster a sense of shared identity and pride. The 175th anniversary of Clay County provides an opportunity for residents to come together and share the unique stories and traditions that make their towns special.