The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs recently awarded nearly $600,000 in grants to various cities across the state, including Kalona. The Historical Resource Development Program awarded a grant of $975 to the Kalona Historical Society to be used on a project to teach people about Iowa’s prehistoric past. The project will consist of a pair of panels interpreting the cultural history of the area, beginning roughly 13,500 years ago and running up to the 1800’s. The purpose of the display is to give the public an opportunity to gain a better understanding and appreciation of human occupation for both Kalona and all of eastern Iowa. The HRDP is funded by the Resource Enhancement and Protection Act, and aims to help individuals and organizations preserve, conserve, interpret, and educate the public about historical resources.