102 Division Street PO Box 3, Lucas, IA 50151, us
The Museum
Areas of The Museum
Starting on May 1, 2024, The museum will open for our normal business hours.
The THEATER in the museum seats 40 where videos of John L. Lewis, coal mining,
Labor and related topics can be viewed. Meetings for a fee may also be held there.
In the COAL MINING area is the 1911 Patent and original blueprints with instructions
for the carbide light along with photos. United Mine Workers memorabilia and photos,
along with antique and some modern coal mining equipment, tools and documents
pertaining to coal mining are displayed.
In the MEMORIAL area is a life size bronze, statue of John L. Lewis along with some
personal photos, letters, documents and memorabilia of John L. Lewis.
In the LABOR area are photos, speeches, letters and memorabilia pertaining to John
L. Lewis' association with the Presidents of the United States, United Mine Workers
of America, United Rubber Workers of America, United Steel Workers of America,
United Auto Workers of America, and many additional organizations.
There is also a CARTOON GALLERY portraying John L. Lewis with many Presidents and people.
Displayed in the OLD LUCAS area are photos and memorabilia from the era that John
L. Lewis was a resident during his coal mining days.
The LIBRARY contains many photos, books and documents on the subject of John
L. Lewis, coal mining, labor, Lucas history and families. The Lucas history includes
coal mining, city and school records and family genealogy. In the LIBRARY, are many photos
of the thriving coal mining town, Buxton Iowa. Buxton was a predominantly African American
community, as well as white residents, from 1900-1927. The town consisted of many well
educated residents who lived together harmoniously, Buxton is no longer in existence
except for its cemetery.
Located 2 Blocks North of Highway Junction 34 & 65 in Lucas, Iowa.
OPEN
May 1st thru September 30th
Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This museum is staffed by volunteers. If volunteers are unavailable, this museum is closed.
Please call 641-766-6831 for an appointment.
Group tours by appointment year around. Closed Sundays & Holidays
ADMISSION $2.00, Students 11-Older $1.00, 10-Under Free
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $5.00
The museum is accessible to the handicapped, with heating, air conditioning & restrooms.