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
55th Annual Fall Festival
Join us for the Annual Fall Festival! Enjoy the field demos, parade, old-fashioned spelling bee, pioneer picnic, crafts, games, live music, and more! The Nelson Pioneer Farm’s annual celebration of pioneer life is a fun day for all ages!
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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, music, food. Free admission, donations appreciated.
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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 […]
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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!