ARNOLDS PARK, Iowa (KUOO) – Two of four paintings have been restored and will soon be put back on display in Arnolds Park.
The paintings chronicling the story of Abbie Gardner will return to the Abbie Gardner Cabin Visitor Center in Arnolds Park. They were sent to Des Moines, where painting conservator Sara Boisen cleaned and restored them in September 2024.
The restorations of the historic paintings were made possible by a $3,300 grant, awarded by the local Okoboji Queen Questers chapter. The remaining 20% of the restoration costs were covered by donations.
For the remaining two paintings in the collection, Maryanna Hubbard of Okoboji, a member of the organization, says they have found another conservator and will reapply for a grant to clean and restore them.
The restored paintings are over 100 years old and illustrate Gardner’s survival story during the Spirit Lake Massacre. Hubbard says the second restored painting shows the final evening that Gardner was held captive.
A historical marker installed by the local D.A.R. chapter can be found at the site. The two paintings will return to the Visitor Center on Thursday, July 31.
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