The Iowa State Bar Association's History and Impact

To honor the ISBA's 150th Anniversary, we are thrilled to present a special video that showcases our rich history and enduring impact. From our founding days to the present, this video highlights the pivotal moments and remarkable individuals who have contributed to our legacy.
In 1874, The Iowa State Bar Association was founded, establishing the first and now oldest voluntary state bar association in the nation. With this, the ISBA embarked on its mission to uphold justice and foster excellence within the legal profession, shaping the course of legal history not just in Iowa, but throughout America.
Commemorating 150 years of the ISBA’s rich legacy of serving the legal profession, the public, and the judiciary, attendees at the 150th Celebration dinner held on June 25, 2024 at Prairie Meadows Events and Conference Center in Altoona were invited to view the first, exclusive screening of “The Iowa State Bar Association's History and Impact,” created by the producer of “Kinnick the Documentary,” Scott Siepker.
"Lawyers were responsible for the formation of this country, of our democracy, and as democracy comes under attack, it will be lawyers that will be responsible for preserving our democracy and our nation," states ISBA Past President Henry Hamilton III (2022-2023).
Hear from ISBA Legislative Counsel James Carney, Past President Cynthia Moser, Membership Director Mary Hill, YLD Mock Trial Committee Co-Chair Ame Mapes, Hon. Paul Ahlers, and others.
There is no doubt that after watching this 12-minute film, you will feel even more proud to be part of the enduring legacy of The Iowa State Bar Association.