The Questers is a non-profit International Organization, which was founded in 1944 by Jessie Elizabeth Bardens. Its original objective was to stimulate an appreciation of antiques and the collection of them, and later to encourage the preservation and restoration of existing historical buildings and landmarks locally, statewide and internationally.

In 2016, Iowa Questers decided to focus more on preservation and restoration and adopted a new state motto: “Preserving the Past for the Future through Restoration, Acquisition and Education.”

Our goal is to have all Iowa Quester chapters become involved in some form of preservation by sponsoring projects, donating to existing projects applying for State and International Quester Grants, or educating the public on the importance of “Preserving the Past for the Future through Restoration, Acquisition and Education.”

Iowa Questers encourage 4-H youth to participate in Preservation & Restoration projects at the Iowa State Fair, where they receive medals and a monetary award they will donate to their favorite local historical interest. Some chapters have begun to recognize youth at the County level, further promoting the value of Preservation & Restoration with our youth.

The Iowa Questers began a collection of Early American Pressed Glass in 1997 which is housed in the Brunnier Art Museum, on the campus of Iowa State University at Ames. The collection now numbers over 1,380 pieces.

Iowa currently has 65 chapters throughout the state, with approximately 704 members. It is the state with the largest membership in the International organization.