While many newcomers aren't aware of the community's rich history, others have labored to make sure it isn't forgotten. The company in turn had been named by one of its principals for his Iowa hometown. Des Moines was built around a sawmill but was home to varied commercial interests in its early years, a time when residents were hopeful the community would become the state capital. He taught the children how to play musical instruments and formed a band that performed throughout the area. Des Moines Beach Park is located on land he bought as a playground for the children.
Many historic buildings remain.
Some, such as the log cabin-style Des Moines Field House, are still in use. The field house was built in 1938 as part of a Depression-era recovery program and now houses the city's parks department and serves as a recreational facility. Kennedy says Des Moines is not only getting bigger, it's getting better. He hails the cultural diversity that has come with growth. Now it is quite multicultural.