Iowa Women's Archive Opened 100Grannies Exhibit
The exhibit features records from an Iowa City-based environmental activism group.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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The Iowa Women's Archive has launched an exhibit showcasing the historical records of 100Grannies. The group was founded in Iowa City to advocate for environmental protection for future generations.
Why it matters
This collection preserves the history of local grassroots environmental activism in Iowa City. It highlights how community members have engaged in advocacy through lobbying and public outreach since 2012.
The archive collection includes buttons, newspaper clippings, and court documents documenting the group's history. It chronicles their work since 2012, including efforts to donate books to every school in the Iowa City Community School District.
The players
100Grannies
This is an Iowa City-based environmental activism group dedicated to protecting the environment for future generations.
Iowa Women's Archive
Located at the University of Iowa, this institution collects and preserves the historical records of women in the state.
Barbara Schlachter
She was the Reverend who founded 100Grannies in 2012 and remained active with the group until her death in 2016.
The details
The exhibit highlights the group's methods, which range from lobbying elected officials to performing street theater and hosting river education lectures for children. Members of 100Grannies participated in the exhibit opening to discuss their organizational history and past activism efforts.
Timeline
100Grannies was established in Iowa City in 2012.
Founder Barbara Schlachter passed away in 2016.
The Iowa Women's Archive opened the 100Grannies exhibit on October 13, 2026.
Political Context
The archival of these records follows a pattern set by the preservation of the 1970s Iowa City feminist movement records. This effort ensures that local political activism remains a documented part of the state's historical record.
Residents can visit the new exhibit to review the history of local environmental advocacy in their own community. The materials provide insight into how citizens have historically engaged with elected officials and local school district policies.
The takeaway
Preserving the records of grassroots organizations ensures that future generations understand the history of local political movements. Residents interested in civic history can use these archival materials to learn about the long-term impact of community-led environmental lobbying.
Further reading
Learn more about local advocacy efforts by visiting the Civic Engagement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Iowan.
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