anne frank connection

The Anne Frank Connection- Danville, Iowa's Connection To the Past

The Anne Frank Connection exhibit at Danville Station in Danville, Iowa tells a remarkable story that links a small Midwest community to one of the most influential voices in world history. The connection began in the fall of 1939, when Danville teacher Miss Birdie Mathews organized a pen pal exchange for her students. Ten year old Juanita Wagner randomly selected the name of a girl her own age living in Amsterdam. That girl was Anne Frank.

Through their correspondence, a simple classroom project became an extraordinary historical link. Today, Danville is one of only two places in the world where Anne Frank’s pen pal letter can be viewed. The accompanying exhibit provides powerful context, education, and reflection, making Danville Station an unexpected yet profoundly meaningful destination for history enthusiasts, students, and travelers seeking stories that resonate far beyond Iowa.