Published on September 22, 2025 9:44 am
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 9:44 am
Jasper County board members were updated by Board Chairman Jason Warfel on behalf of Jennifer Hinterscher and Anthea Zumbahlen of the Jasper County Museum on their move to 201 East Washington in Newton.
The Museum was located in the back room at the Newton Public Library, more space was needed, and they located an available building. The Museum was originally set up in March of 1960, but did not formally open until the summer of 1966. The Museum began with a private collection of Early Americana items donated by Newton druggists Henry and Frank Schackmann stored in the empty room behind the library, formerly the Star Movie Theater. In 2000, Friends of the Museum was established with the aim of increasing understanding and appreciation of the heritage of Jasper County, and to keep an inventory of items, and to update the displays from time-to-time. In 2022, this group ceased to meet and the library staff closed the museum doors, as the space was becoming unsafe for visitors. In 2024, Hinterscher and Zumbahlen began planning to move the Museum to a new, stand-alone location, which also freed up more space for the library. They anticipate a Grand Opening this October, which will be their 60th anniversary. They are requesting $5,000 annual donations.
Progress continues on a new county courthouse in Newton. The Chief Judge sent an e-mail referencing minimum court standards to ensure compliance. ADG and Stone and Waggoner found no issues.
The Board approved closing non-emergency county offices from 8am to 1pm on Wednesday, October 15 for all county employee training.
