Today is opening day for a traveling exhibit in Newton that’s associated with the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C. The free exhibit called “Spark! Places of Innovation” pays tribute to innovation in rural America. Newton Community Development Director Erin Chambers says it’s impressive.

“There are computer components and videos, there are ways youth and adults can engage with the content hands on. You will find the quality of an exhibit you might see in Washington D.C.”

Chambers believes having this exhibit in Newton for the next month is fitting, because Newton historically has had significant inventions and innovation in the community.

“Jasper County Historical Society has partnered with the Newton Historical Preservation Commission to bring artifacts and content related to Newton and Jasper County into the exhibit. So we have augmented what the Smithsonian has put together, to talk about the innovative history we have in our community.”

The free traveling Smithsonian exhibit is at Legacy Plaza’s Building 20 from today through Thursday, January 30th. It is open from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. There will be special Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on January 11th and January 25th. 

Grinnell College paid to bring the exhibit to Iowa.