The year 2024 marks a sentinel time in the history of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of this iconic institution for our community, state, nation, and world. In 1974, a group of visionaries were passionate about preserving the Czech and Slovak culture, heritage, and history that was so much a part of this Midwest region. From humble beginnings in department store windows to an actual museum structure in a small house in Czech Village, today’s NCSML became a reality in 1995 when three sitting presidents came to dedicate this national treasure. The founders and early leaders worked with Senator Charles Grassley to officially designate this a “national” museum and library in the Congressional Record in 1992. Our iconic red roofed structure stood tall and proud in Cedar Rapids until the flood of 2008 when nine feet of water swept into the building. With conviction and dedication, again visionaries, dedicated leaders, and volunteers worked with the community and supporters from throughout the U.S. and the Czech and Slovak Republics to build an even bigger national museum and library. Our 50th anniversary gala will be filled with golden memories and a time to truly reflect on the past, present, and future. The pride in what everyone has done to make this great place will be remembered and celebrated.