The DeSoto Consolidated School possesses a rich history which donor, and former student, Jim Riley is working to preserve. Originally located in Dallas County, Van Meter Township, the DeSoto Consolidated School opened in 1924 and served the children of DeSoto, Iowa, until its closure in 1961.
The Jim Riley Collection on DeSoto Consolidated School consists of Mr. Riley's reference files which are in the process of being compiled into a book-length work. From 2013-2014, Mr. Riley corresponded with former students to obtain highlights and memories of their time at DeSoto Consolidated School. Informational sheets, letters, and emails from participating students, teacher lists, written works, and the 2004 publication "Memories: DeSoto Consolidated School Class of 1954" compose the collection.