A Great Cloud of Witnesses

A Great Cloud of Witnesses presents oral history memories of the early 20th century in a Midwestern community. In the 1980s, the Cedar Rapids Public Library and Junior League of Cedar Rapids interviewed nearly 100 community members about their memories. The voices have much to say to us today. They speak with resilience and optimism of their lives and relationships in Cedar Rapids during the tumultuous early years of the 20th century. We are truly surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.

The oral histories cover immigration, early industries, tragic industrial accidents, downtown businesses, the Depression and its effects on banks and the economy. Memories spotlight the contributions of Czech immigrants, African Americans, and strong women to the cultural fabric. They uncover the origins of schools and hospitals, the transformation of communication with early radio and television. Voices share iconic memories of Brucemore, the impact of Grant Wood and his art, the rise of community theater, the Cedar Rapids Symphony, and the public library. Ten chapters profile individual lives; seven expand on events and institutions viewed through the memories of those who experienced them.

They give us a glimpse of a time when people made community through hardship, sacrifice, and perseverance, a time when people created fun out of nothing and endured whatever came their way. And took care of each other through it all. We need to hear these stories again. They hold hope for the future of our American communities.