Sep 29, 2026 - News

1 update: This historic cannon's contract

Jason Clayworth

Turquoise cannon on a gray stone pedestal sits on grass, facing left. In the background is a red brick wall with faded lettering "IOWA GOLD STAR MUSEUM". — Photo: City Council documents

Des Moines City Council this month extended the loan of its city-owned 1841 Civil War howitzer cannon to the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum at Camp Dodge.

Flashback: The cannon once stood at General Nathaniel B. Baker's gravesite in Woodland Cemetery, but was moved to the museum more than 25 years ago to prevent theft.

Context: Baker was Iowa's adjutant general during and after the Civil War, helping raise 57 Iowa regiments and becoming a prominent advocate for veterans. He died in DSM in 1876.

What's next: Nothing.

The loan is good until Jan 1, 2047, with an optional 20-year renewal.

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1 update: This historic cannon's contract

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