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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Coal Mining on Muchakinock Creek
Join Doug Wilson as he discusses Coal Mining on Muchakinock Creek. Mr. Wilson has spent much of his life exploring the coal mining history in Mahaska County and the surrounding areas, creating maps and gathering photographs and artifacts throughout his study. He always enjoys sharing his findings with others to preserve this rich piece of […]
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First Day of the Season
Mark your calendars! 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. Detailed ticketing information coming soon.
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
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 opens June 14. Two different series of craft activities will be offered every Tuesday-Friday throughout July, with each series being repeated. This is not a day camp. The idea is for the adults and children to do the activities together. Adults must remain […]
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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. New this year: sawmill demonstration. More details coming […]
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
56th Annual Fall Festival
Mark your calendars! Join our celebration of pioneer living and fun-filled community event on Sat. Sept. 17. Food, music, crafts and games, historic harvesting demonstrations, and more. More activities and ticketing details coming soon!
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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. Updated ticketing information coming soon!
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. There will also be a brief business meeting for Society members for […]
Learn MoreGet Involved
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!