Restored BN Depot and WW II Museum

05/24/2026

Thank you to the MCDC for highlighting Montgomery County, Iowa’s strong military tradition…and the Restored BN Depot & World War II Museum preserving & display this history😍

05/15/2026

The Red Oak Depot Museum is hosting its 3rd Humanities of Iowa Speakers Series event in June! Dr. Chad Timm of Simpson College will discuss the lives of US citizens who served as Prisoners of War in the Clarinda and Algona camps. He will also explain how the POWs assisted Iowa’s farmers in winning the war.

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 – 1:30 to 2:30 pm
Restored Burlington Northern Depot & World War II Museum
305 South Second Street, Red Oak, Iowa

For more information, explore these “Behind barbed wire”, Iowa History Journal articles:

Camp Algona housed 10,000 German and Italian prisoners
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19Xgs1oV10iPHgc6kzEEYLff-1W2HfqXR/view?usp=sharing

Japanese prisoners arrive at Camp Clarinda
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QXcNdytfXaldLtgpnrG0y2S2-I437xJ4/view?usp=sharing

04/23/2026

Join us at the Depot, 305 South Second Street, on May 13, 1:00 pm, for this first-person story of an Iowan's experience as a Union Solder in the Civil War. O.J. Fargo will dress in full Union Army regalia and stay in character while sharing his in-depth Civil War knowledge. Mr. Fargo will have a display of artifacts and a database of Iowans who served in the Civil War. Lots of great information and interactive discussion! Bring your friends.
This free program is made possible by Humanities of Iowa.

04/13/2026

It is with heavy heart that I tell you that Lynn Adams passed away on Friday. He will be sorely missed at the Depot. He requested there be no service or celebration of life and his family his honoring his wishes. Please keep all of them in your prayers. Lynn requested that any memorials be designated to the Depot where his heart was.

03/29/2026

Save the date.

03/28/2026

11/16/2025

We're looking for a few good volunteers! If you love history and are 55+ years old, this could be a great opportunity for you to contribute to your community. The Restored BN Depot & World War II Museum is a wonderful Red Oak gem!

11/15/2025

Come, search, and take home some Murphy Calendar artwork prints!

10/30/2025

Thomas D Murphy collectors - vintage calendars. 1 of 1987. 4 of 1989. $25 each.

10/26/2025

Interesting article I found in a 1953 issue of the Red Oak Express.