A conceptual drawing of the potential Siouxland Attic exhibit.

About Our New Museum

 regional tourist destination in downtown Sioux City that combines education, research, and fun. This is the vision for the new Sioux City Public Museum site at 607 4th Street.

Why a new site for the Public Museum?

The Sioux City Public Museum has long outgrown the space in the Peirce Mansion, where, at any given time, only a small fraction of the Museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and images can be displayed. More than 50,000 objects and over 250,000 photographic images are currently stored in the Mansion and in the Pearl Street Research Center. A much larger museum site is needed to consolidate collections/archives and showcase larger exhibits for the public. Seating for programs is limited at approximately 50 audience members; the currently facility is also not handicap accessible above the first floor.

Why the former JC Penney building?

JC Penney’s relocation in 2004 opened up a large building space in the heart of downtown Sioux City. The Museum was in the process of exploring available sites including the option of attaching a new facility to the Sioux City Art Center. After gathering community input, the City of Sioux City took possession of the JC Penney building in 2006 for use as the Museum’s new site and with rental space available. The acquisition’s economic feasibility was quickly realized as Northwest Airlines leased a large portion of the second floor for a call center. At over 55,000 square feet of floor space on the first floor, it has plenty of space for permanent and rotating exhibits, archive storage and display, offices, classrooms, etc. Its proximity to the Art Center, the Orpheum Theater, other cultural and entertainment venues, and the central business district make it an ideal location.

How will the new Museum be different?

It will be bigger, better, more dynamic and attractive, and more accessible. The main entrance will lead into a large two-story atrium in the southwest corner. Most of the south wall will feature a glass exterior through which artifacts and activities can be seen from outside. With a relandscaped corner plaza, this dramatic façade will welcome visitors to a large modern museum which does not resemble a department store. The broad vision is to create a dynamic, engaging new facility that will WOW visitors and better reflect Siouxland’s significant historical place at the crossroads of cultures and commerce. The new Museum will present innovative and exciting exhibitions and programs that will make it a must-see destination.

How is the Museum managed?

The Sioux City Public Museum is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the City Council and operated by a professional director and staff. The Museum’s current facilities include the Peirce Mansion at 2901 Jackson Street, the Pearl Street Research Center at 407 Pearl, the Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Welcome Center on Larsen Park Road, and the Loren D. Callendar Gallery in City Hall.

What will be some of the features of the new museum?

Plans call for space for a large temporary gallery, theatre, archives/research center, collections area, flexible classroom space, conference rooms, gift shop, and offices. Among the possible permanent exhibits are: Native American Gallery, Stockyards Exhibit, Disaster and Recovery Exhibit, Siouxland Attic, Meatpacking Exhibit, Sports in Siouxland Exhibit, and Agriculture/Industry Exhibit.

How will the community benefit from the new Museum?

A visit to the Museum will touch hearts and minds, inspire the imagination, and stimulate further exploration. Visitors will be immersed in the sights, sounds, activities, and emotions of Siouxland over time. Built upon a solid foundation of scholarship, exhibitions will make history vibrant and engaging. “Our New Museum” will use state-of-the-art technology, interactive hands-on elements, and awe-inspiring presentation methods to bring the past to life in a variety of formats designed to stimulate diverse visitor backgrounds, interests, and learning styles. Exhibitions and programs will be welcoming, fun, and memorable — creating the kind of place visitors will want to return to again and again. And each time they return, they will find something new to grab and hold their attention. “Our New Museum” will enhance the quality of life for Siouxland citizens, help strengthen downtown Sioux City, and complement the cultural and entertainment district. Site, building architecture, and exhibitions will join together to communicate the spirit of history and make the Museum a focal point in the cultural center of downtown Sioux City.

Will there be adequate parking at the new site?

With ample street-level metered parking all around the building, plus three nearby parking ramps (including the newly rebuilt Heritage ramp), there will be plenty of parking available, with free parking on weekends. The new Museum will also be accessible from the Skywalk system.

What will become of the Peirce Mansion?

The Peirce Mansion will continue to be an important part of the Museum system. Plans are for the Mansion to be renovated and converted into an 1890s period home. Some renovation is already under way, including a restored second floor bedroom.

What’s the timetable? When is the new Museum expected to be open?

Most of the fundraising is expected to be completed by December of 2009, to coincide with the beginning of construction and renovation of the former J.C. Penney building for use as a museum. The New Museum is projected to open in the fall of 2010.

Where will the money come from?

This campaign represents an opportunity for Sioux City and area citizens, businesses and organizations to make a lasting difference to the well being and quality of life of our community and our region. Financial support of this exciting and important project is a prudent investment in our community’s future and in preservation of our past.

How can I be a part of “Our New Museum” campaign?

You can get involved by making a donation or pledge, volunteering to contact other potential donors, or donating a piece of Sioux City history. For more information or to schedule a tour of the new site before renovations begin next spring, call 712-279-6174.

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