Cass County Historical Museum: Griswold, IA

05/15/2026

We had some special visitors at the museum this morning. The fifth graders from Griswold CSD walked themselves across town for their second visit to the museum this semester!

We'll post more details about their visit and our special guest in the next few days!

Curious about what cool things they found inside? Come check it out for yourself.

Open Wednesday through Sunday, 1 to 4 PM

05/02/2026

Need plans for the afternoon?

Open 1-4pm!

05/01/2026

It's opening day!

IT's OPENING DAY!!

At 1 PM today, we will officially be open for the season. We can't wait to show you our new exhibits, including a time capsule that was buried underneath the wooden park in Griswold in 1994!

Open Wednesdays through Sundays, 1 to 4 PM
Air conditioned, wheelchair accessible, restroom available, free admission

02/24/2026

We hold this place so near to our hearts. We can't wait to show off our new exhibits when we open in May. Come see us this season!

“Our goal here is to preserve the past for the future,” said Sally Hansen, curator (President) of the Cass County Historical Museum located in Griswold, at 410 Main Street (Highway

01/24/2026

It’s cold outside… so here’s a little warmth from the past 🧵❄️

This quilt was pieced and quilted by Mrs. E. A. Reeves of Griswold. The dark pieces came from her dresses, and the light pieces from her grandfather’s shirts — each square holding a story.

Everyday histories woven into our community - that's what we're preserving.

01/12/2026

You HAVE to check out our new highlight video featured on our website. We can't wait to open the doors and welcome our visitors for the 2026 season.

Opening date will be announced soon!

https://www.casscoiowamuseum.com/

10/26/2025

We always appreciate hearing kind words about this special place. If you've stopped by the museum this season, we would love a review!

10/24/2025

Did you know...

It was originally proposed that the town of Massena be called "Smith," or as some sources say "Smithville". This name was rejected by both the post office and many of the early residents. The name Massena for the township was proposed by a trustee, Luma W. Stone. Stone arrived in the county in 1870, a Civil War veteran and farmer whom quickly took interest in civil matters. He was from Massena, New York. The township was created in 1870.

Early businesses included a pharmacist, a doctor, a surgeon, a furniture store, several general stores, a lumberyard, coal and grain dealer, harness maker, hotel, restaurant, and livestock dealers. The town also had an active post of the Grand Army of the Republic for many years.

The first school was organized in 1886. Today the school district includes Cumberland, Anita, Massena.

Stop in for a visit and to learn more about Cass County's townships.

Open Wed-Sun, 1-4pm.
Last day of the season: Nov 2

10/08/2025

We're proud to be a part of Main Street... especially when we get to participate in the fun stuff like cheering on our local school district!

09/20/2025

F.H. Whitney established the Bank of Griswold in 1880. Three years later it merged with the First National Bank. The two-story brick building was completed in 1885 and operated as Griswold National Bank until 1930 when it went into receivership. The building now houses the Cass County Historical Society Museum. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Learn about the history of Cass County towns and see the beautiful artifacts from the covered wagons, Native Americans, farm settlers and more.

Open Wed-Sun, 1-4pm. FREE admission!