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 Sunday 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
Family All Ages
Christmas Craft Activities
Our annual Christmas event with crafts, food, and music is transitioning to an “In a Box” option for purchase. Three different box options are available: A Victorian Christmas Tussy Mussy Christmas carol music ornament Victorian stocking Angel ornament Christmas popper A Pioneer Christmas Mason jar ring ornament Popcorn & cranberry garland Burlap stocking Twine angel […]
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Laura’s Days Family Activities
Our annual family event with crafts, games, and exploration is transitioning to an “In a Box” option for purchase due to our 2020 season closure. Two different box options are available designed for different ages: Half-Pint (6-10 year olds) Silhouette portraits Yarn doll Buzz saw toy Thaumatrope Ball in Cup game Frontier Explorers (10+) Build […]
Learn MoreAdult Class
Hammer In
Join our blacksmith Aaron Huff to learn about historic techniques, use different tools, and create a project to take home. Free admission. Please bring your own PPE. Safety glasses or prescription glasses will need to be worn along with leather gloves. If you do not have safety glasses or gloves please let Aaron know ahead […]
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Dog Hollow Rendezvous
Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 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, but are asked to adhere to social distancing […]
Learn MoreAdult Class
Hammer In
Join our blacksmith Aaron Huff to learn about historic techniques, use different tools, and create a project to take home. Free admission. Please bring your own PPE. Safety glasses or prescription glasses will need to be worn along with leather gloves. If you do not have safety glasses or gloves please let Aaron know ahead […]
Learn MoreFamily All Ages
55th Annual Fall Festival – Postponed until 2021
Due to COVID-19, we regret to announce that we will not host our annual celebration of pioneer living in 2020. Be sure to keep an eye out for our 2021 celebration, scheduled for September 18.
Learn MoreFree
Drive-Thru Haunted Village
See your favorite fairy tales, nursery rhymes, and spooky stories brought to life from the comfort of your car! Actors from the Oskaloosa Community Theatre, Oskaloosa High School Thespian Troope 228, and the North Mahaska High School Drama Department will be performing pantomimes outside several of our historic buildings for families and visitors to drive […]
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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!