Pack a Lunch, Unpack History: Meet the Sinclairs

Bring your lunch and feed your curiosity as we explore the stories, questions, and discoveries that bring history to life. Each program takes a closer look at a different person, place, event, or idea connected to Brucemore — revealing new perspectives and unexpected connections along the way.

Whether you’re a longtime history fan or simply looking for an interesting way to spend your lunch break, come learn something unexpected, share your curiosity with others, and discover a new side of history. November 5 – Meet the Sinclairs Long before Brucemore became a landmark in Cedar Rapids, it was the dream of Caroline Sinclair — a young widow determined to build a new home and a future for her six children.

Join Curator of Museum Collections Jessica Peel-Austin for a closer look at the Sinclair family story through newly uncovered archival research. Go beyond the stories shared on a typical tour to explore the experiences, challenges, relationships, and choices that shaped Caroline’s and her family’s lives before, during, and after their years at Brucemore.

Through documents, photographs, and personal records, discover how historians piece together the stories of the people behind the places — and how one family’s choices created a legacy that continues to shape Cedar Rapids today. Event Time: 12:00 to 1:00 PM | Doors open 10 minutes before start of program.

Event Location: Brucemore’s Carriage House Event Admission: $10 general admission Tickets may be purchased in advance online or over the phone or in-person at the event. Brucemore supporters receive a $5 discount per ticket.

To use your discount, please sign in using the link in the upper right corner of the purchase page or call (319) 362-7375. A $4 processing fee will be applied to all online and phone orders.

Event Map Important Event Information To help make the most of your visit, we’ve prepared a few tips. If you have any questions that haven’t been answered here, our team is happy to help.

Please email us or call 319-362-7375 to reach a Brucemore staff member. What to Know Before You Go: Meals are not included in this event.

Please plan to bring your own lunch to enjoy during the presentation. Seating will be provided inside the event space at Brucemore’s Carriage House.

This event is scheduled to last approximately one hour. Navigating the site: The entrance to the estate is on Linden Drive.

Some GPS systems may try to take you to another gate. This labeled Google Map can help you plan your route to the entrance before you arrive.

When you arrive on the site, follow signs to the Carriage House. Parking is available in spaces around the building.

If Carriage House parking is full, additional parking is available near the Mansion. Event check-in is inside the Carriage House.

Please follow signs to the entrance to check in or purchase a ticket. Ticket and Photo Policies: All ticket sales are non-refundable.

Please read our ticket policy here . At this event, photography and videos may be recorded.

By attending this event, you may be included in these photos and videos. Your attendance at this event grants your permission to be in these photos or videos, which may be used for educational, archival, or promotional purposes.

If you have concerns about your likeness appearing in these photos and videos, please talk to a staff member when you check in for the event.