Wilkie House

Established in 1917, Willkie House has been a cornerstone of Des Moines' Black community for over a century, evolving from a wartime recreational facility to a multifaceted youth development center.

During World War I, Fort Des Moines became the training ground for the first Black officers in the U.S. Army. To support these servicemen, the War Recreation Board established a facility in Des Moines dedicated to providing leisure programs and social services. This initiative marked the inception of what would later become Willkie House.

In 1933, the organization was renamed the Negro Community Center of Des Moines. By 1935, it served 70% of Des Moines' Black population and supported 124 organizations, emphasizing activities for the entire family.

From 1922 until her passing in 1955, Lillian Edmunds served as the executive director of the center. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to preparing young people for greater achievements than those of their predecessors. Edmunds was a pioneer in race relations, offering educational and employment opportunities to African Americans during a time when such prospects were scarce. She also played a pivotal role in organizing the Iowa-Nebraska Federation of Settlement Houses and served on the Iowa Commission on Children & Youth.

Recognizing the need for a larger, modern facility, the community rallied in 1945, with contributions from the Gardner Cowles Foundation and 767 Black citizens and organizations, raising $138,000 for construction. The new building opened on June 17, 1951, and was named Willkie House in honor of Wendell Willkie, an American statesman who advocated for racial equality. The facility featured amenities such as a library and a gymnasium, which became popular venues for dances and roller skating.

Over the decades, Willkie House has adapted to the changing needs of the community. In the 1980s, it served as a venue for local punk rock bands, providing an all-ages space for musical expression. Today, the organization focuses on youth development, offering afterschool and summer programs that promote academics, social skills, health, and recreation. The mission remains centered on developing character and esteem in young people, with a particular emphasis on promoting Black culture, pride, and history.