The community is invited to gather in Mount Pleasant on Saturday, September 6, 2025, for a special celebration honoring one of the city’s most famous natives—world-renowned physicist Dr. James Van Allen.
Born in Mount Pleasant on September 7, 1914, Van Allen was educated in local schools before embarking on a groundbreaking career in physics. He is best known for discovering the Van Allen radiation belts, a scientific achievement that helped make America’s space program possible.
The celebration will take place from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the corner of West Madison and North Van Buren in Mount Pleasant. The afternoon will include hands-on activities for all ages:
- 1:00 p.m. – Help make homemade ice cream.
- 2:00 p.m. – Enjoy cake and ice cream.
- Following refreshments – Science activities and games for kids, led by Susan Loescher and Rosemary Peck.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to tour the Van Allen House and the Heritage Center Museum. The event is free, though donations are appreciated. Organizers encourage guests to bring lawn chairs, and note that children should be accompanied by an adult.
For questions, call (319) 217-6042.