LEAD: Work in the new Traer school gymnasium (pictured, circa 1956) is proceeding at a fast clip. The laying of the hardwood playing floor was completed on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 1955. The entire space has been painted. Workers are sanding and finishing the floor. Some light fixtures still need to be installed. It is estimated that the gymnasium will be ready for the first game in late December. The Tama County Boys Basketball Tournament will be held in the new gym beginning Jan. 17, 1956. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TRAER HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Beginning in January 2026, the Traer Historical Museum will be sharing photos from the past as a regular feature in the North Tama Telegraph. The photos will be selected and captions written by members of the museum’s board. Current board members include Carol Boyce, Brenda Cook, Kim Howard, Bob Hill, George Kadrmas, Jean Kruse, Linda Lyons, Ron Mason, Sharon Stoakes, and Patty Suess.

The purpose of the Traer Historical Museum is to collect, preserve and display items of historical and cultural significance that tell the story of Traer and northern Tama County, from settlement to the present. This feature is a way to share some of that history through photographs.

Board members and volunteers at the museum have scanned and identified over 1,500 photos from the past. Some are posted on Facebook on the Traer Nostalgia page asking for help identifying people in photos.