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Madrid History & Clay Castle: A Journey Through Iowa's Past

Explore local history, coal mining artifacts, and a charming doll collection at Madrid's unique museum complex.

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Discover the unique history of Madrid, Iowa, at the Madrid History & Clay Castle. Housed in a series of early 20th-century buildings, this museum complex features exhibits ranging from local coal mining history to an impressive collection of dolls, offering a glimpse into the area's diverse heritage.

A brief summary to Madrid History & Clay Castle

Local tips

  • Visit on Mondays between 9:30 AM and 12:00 PM for 'Coffee at the Museum'.
  • Check out the Madrid Register-News archive online for a deeper dive into local history.
  • Consider making a donation to support the museum's ongoing preservation efforts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Madrid History & Clay Castle is located at 109 W 2nd St in Madrid, IA. If you are already in the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the intersection of IA-210 and W 2nd St, head west on W 2nd St for a few blocks. The museum will be on your left. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Driving

    If driving from outside of Madrid, use IA-210 to enter the town. Turn onto W 2nd St and proceed for a few blocks. The museum will be on your left. Parking is generally available on the street near the museum. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Madrid History & Clay Castle

The Madrid History & Clay Castle offers visitors a captivating look into the history of Madrid, Iowa, and the surrounding area. Located at 109 W 2nd St, the museum is housed within a complex of four interconnected buildings dating back to the early 1900s. The Madrid Historical Society meticulously preserves and shares the region's heritage through diverse exhibits and collections. One of the museum's highlights is the Clay Castle Museum, famous for its extensive doll collection. This collection, started by Margaret Keigley in 1938, features over a thousand dolls of various sizes and descriptions, along with dollhouses, sewing machines, and other vintage toys. Visitors can also explore Madrid Mine #7, a full-sized replica of a room in an underground coal mine. This exhibit provides a glimpse into the challenging conditions faced by miners who toiled in the area's coal mines. The replica showcases mining artifacts recovered from local mines, offering an immersive experience. The museum also features exhibits on the area's railroad history and displays of antiques and cultural artifacts from the early 20th century. With its diverse collections and engaging exhibits, the Madrid History & Clay Castle offers something for everyone.

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