Discover the hidden gem
of Mahaska County…
Daniel and Margaret Nelson settled their farm in 1843. They raised six children here. Two Civil War veteran mules made their home with the family. In 1958 when grandchildren Roy and Lillian died, the farm became the home of the Mahaska County Historical Society.
Since 1964 we have been honoring rural pioneer men and women, sharing details of their lives and thoughts in the places they lived and worked. Uncover the skills they had and the items they left behind.
Join us Tuesday through Saturday every summer for a quiet self-guided exploration or come on a special event day for programs and presentations of days gone by.
upcoming events & programs
General
Annual Meeting
Every quarter, members of the Historical Society enjoy a fellowship meal and program. It’s a great chance to connect with like-minded people and get updates about the site. Members are encouraged to bring a guest who may be interested in joining the Society. There will also be a brief business meeting for Society members to […]
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First Day of the Season
Bring your family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances to enjoy a step back in Mahaska County’s vibrant history. Enjoy a self-guided tour or request a guided tour from our staff. Bus and group tours welcome. Please call 641-672-2989 to book groups of over 10 people. Open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays by […]
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Quarterly Meeting
Every quarter, members of the Historical Society enjoy a fellowship meal and program. It’s a great chance to connect with like-minded people and get updates about the site. Members are encouraged to bring a guest who may be interested in joining the Society. Meal is for members and prospective members at 6:30 p.m. Bring a […]
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Knots, Loops, and Other Twisted Crafts
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy our annual salute to textiles! Visit with demonstrators and artisans showcasing different historic skills. Themed scavenger hunts and other interactive activities available around the site. All of our historic buildings are also open for exploration. More details coming soon! Free admission, donations appreciated.
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Laura’s Days
Our annual family event with crafts, games, and exploration is back! Registration not yet open. Three different series of craft activities will be offered every Tuesday-Friday throughout July. This is not a day camp. The goal of this program is for the adults and children to do the activities together. Adults must remain with their […]
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Dog Hollow Rendezvous
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historic Re-enactment with the Timberwolf Rendezvousers. Visit with a great group of buckskinners to learn about the fur trade era. Demos, vendors, and music. Public is welcome to visit the encampment and all of our historic buildings are also open for exploration. Free admission, donations appreciated.
Learn MoreGeneral
Quarterly Meeting
Every quarter, members of the Historical Society enjoy a fellowship meal and program. It’s a great chance to connect with like-minded people and get updates about the site. Members are encouraged to bring a guest who may be interested in joining the Society. Meal is for members and prospective members at 6:30 p.m. Bring a […]
Learn MoreFamily All Ages
57th Annual Fall Festival
Join our celebration of pioneer living and a fun-filled community event! Enjoy games, crafts, petting zoo, demonstrations, historic interpreters, community tables, and vendors all across the site throughout the day. *Rain or Shine! In the event of light rain, all activities that can be moved inside continue and we do as many farming activities as […]
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Last Day of the Season
Be sure to visit our site before we close for the season! Enjoy a self-guided tour or request a guided tour from our staff.
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Quarterly Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation
Every quarter, members of the Historical Society enjoy a fellowship meal and program. It’s a great chance to connect with like-minded people and get updates about the site. Members are encouraged to bring a guest who may be interested in joining the Society. There will also be a brief business meeting for Society members for […]
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BECOME A MEMBER!
Join a vibrant community of members, volunteers, and donors that brings our mission to life! With affordable memberships for individuals and families, our members keep us engaged and are actively involved with MCHS. You can enjoy early registrations, member discounts to programs, and other perks year-round. Learn more here!