Honoring History at Lake Ahquabi

Local Questers Help Place State Park buildings on the National Register

In early June, members of the General Joseph Warren of THE QUESTERS organization gathered at Lake Ahquabi State Park in Indianola, Iowa, for a milestone moment: the official dedication of a new historic marker recognizing the park’s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) legacy.

Thanks to the chapter’s leadership and passion for preservation, several of the park’s structures are now officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The dedication ceremony, held Saturday, June 6, brought together local leaders, park staff, and community members—including Warren County Supervisor Aaron Dekock and Lake Ahquabi Manager Dan Lathrum from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Despite the rainy weather, more than two dozen attendees turned out to celebrate this important piece of Iowa’s heritage.

“Ahquabi,” meaning “resting place,” is a beautiful example of the craftsmanship and public investment brought to life by the CCC during the 1930s, shared Deb Taylor of THE QUESTERS, who gave a moving presentation on the park’s history and the legacy of Camp Allerton—the CCC camp once located on what is now the Warren County Fairgrounds.

The new historic marker was made possible through a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, a national organization that supports efforts to recognize and preserve community history. Chapter member Joan Claerhout presented the foundation’s dedication letter, underscoring the importance of celebrating local stories that might otherwise be forgotten.

Iowa State Questers President Susan Laws spoke about the broader mission of THE QUESTERS to preserve and restore history, while General Joseph Warren Chapter President Donna Hallstrom led introductions and assisted in the unveiling of the Bath House marker—the first of three markers planned for the park.

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for refreshments provided by THE QUESTERS, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie that continue to define the organization’s work.

This project exemplifies THE QUESTERS belief that history isn’t just something to remember—it’s something to honor, protect, and pass on.

Have a local preservation success story to share?
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