Contemporary History Projects

Documenting this time in our history

This time in our history will be talked about for generations to come. As the Quad Cities Smithsonian Affiliate, we are reaching out to the community to ask you to help us document this time in our history. Are you keeping a journal? Have you posted hearts in your window? Are you making masks to donate to area hospitals, like our own Putnam Guild? 

These stories might include videos, images, written documents and 3-dimensional items that tell the story of this turbulent time. Be creative and share with us.

Use this form to make a digital contribution. For more information, contact our curators: Christina Kastell or Christine Chandler. 

Youth Journal

We are living during an extraordinary moment in history, and our kids have a story that other Quad City kids will want to hear many years from now. This journal provides an opportunity for our kids to document their experience through some fun activities. This journal shares guidance from Vera French Mental Health professionals on how to talk about the impact of COVID-19 on your family and on our community.

Download Youth Journal