The depot

Our main project is the 1909 Des Moines Union Depot in the East Village. The depot hosts Des Moines' heritage organizations like the Des Moines Historical Society, Historic East Village, Des Moines Rehabbers Club, and others. The depot provides opportunities for the community to learn more about Des Moines' architectural and cultural heritage.

About The Depot

Des Moines Heritage Center Story Video

The depot was constructed in 1909 by W.H. Brereton for the Des Moines Union Railway. The depot once served as a passenger station and its revitalization has preserved its unique Dutch Revival style. Today, it serves as a hub for the community to learn about Des Moines’ heritage.

Next to the depot is the Des Moines Heritage Center, an events center. The events center serves as a rental space as well as leveraged property for rehabilitation of other historic properties. Through the event center windows, visitors have a breathtaking view of the brilliant gold dome of the capitol building. Learn more about the center here.

The Des Moines Heritage Center and depot are now open and accepting reservations. Contact Tim Waddell at waddell.tim@gmail.com or 515-210-2396.

Economic Impact

The depot space has a definite impact on our immediate community. By renovating the depot instead of demolition, it has provided 49 new jobs and paid around $1,000,000 in workers’ wages. In the more long term, we expect to see more money being spent on businesses here in Des Moines. The state will see over $130,000 in tax revenue every year from this project. We will expect to see over $1,500,000 in spending in Des Moines by visitors from photographers, caterers, and hotel rooms being booked.

Contact us

Socials

Mail

mail@desmoinesheritagetrust.org

Address

120 E 5th St,
Des Moines, Iowa
50309