Historic artifacts go on display tonight

Iowans have the opportunity tonight to view some very rare artifacts from the American Revolution at a fundraiser for the State Historical Society of Iowa. The 4th annual “Picnic on our Patio” event will be highlighted by the music of the Des Moines Symphony on the steps of the state capitol.Anne Reitzler is a spokeswoman for the Iowa Historical Foundation, the fundraising arm of the Historical Society. She says after the music and before the fireworks, people who attend the picnic will be able to see the unveiling of a new patriotic display. Reitzler says the items date back to 1776 and even earlier. They include a pipe used by George Washington and a rifle used by Daniel Boone.For more information on the event, call (515) 281-3754. There is an admission charge for the picnic.