Together, our 2 historic sites offer educational programs, raise sustainably-grown produce, and create locally-sourced meals

Together, our 2 historic sites offer educational programs, raise sustainably-grown produce, and create locally-sourced meals

The Garden for Good will raise 5,000 lbs. of sweet potatoes for food-insecure Iowans in 2021

“ This experience sums up what it means to live in Iowa… ”

“ We had so much fun at last night’s class! ”

WCI helps food entrepreneurs with rental space at the Mickle Center Shared Use Community Kitchen

The annual Prairie Art Exhibit connects the important role of prairies & pollinators to community art

Volunteers work alongside staff in the garden, help at special events, and serve on the board of directors

Pizza on the Prairie named Outstanding Event: Rural by Iowa Tourism!

Name: June 18 Pizza on the Prairie
Start: 2021-06-18T17:00:00-04:00
End: 2021-06-18T21:00:00-04:00
Location: Country Life Center

The popular new event, Pizza on the Prairie, was recognized by Iowa Tourism as the Outstanding Event in a rural community at Iowa Tourism’s annual conference of Iowa travel professionals.

The 2021 season begins Friday, June 4 at the Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center. Ticket information and other details can be found on the Pizza on the Prairie page.

2021 Prairie Art Exhibit theme

This year’s theme for the Prairie Art Exhibit is “Prairie Creatures Great and Small”. Naturally, the North American bison and prairie dogs come to mind. But don’t overlook smaller, but also critical critters such as songbirds, reptiles and all kinds of insects.

The Prairie Art Exhibit invites community artists of all ages and skill levels to create a 2′ x 2′ painting following our theme. All submissions are mounted in the 9-acre prairie at the Henry A. Country Life Center from late June to early October. There is no charge to tour the exhibit.

Make arrangements to pick up 1 or more boards by contacting Lisa at the Country Life Center near Orient or Ann at the Wallace House in Des Moines. The last day to turn in artwork is June 11. You can volunteer to help install the exhibit the week of June 21 by contacting Deb.

Covid-19 Response

WCI has canceled all indoor events until July, 2021. Our buildings are currently closed but the prairie path at the Country Life Center is open for social-distance walking. Staff are available by phone and email. We continue to monitor the evolving public health situation. Updates will be provided as they become available.

At the current time, we’re offering online cooking classes. Pizza on the Prairie begins June 4. Farm to Table Thursdays start July 8. The Mickle Center Shared Use Kitchen continues to support small food businesses.

Our Statement

We stand with people of color against racism, violence, and hate. Enriching communities and gathering together is the core of our work at The Wallace Centers of Iowa and how we actualize the Wallace family legacy. Now more than ever, we value our work that creates seats at the table for everyone. As an organization, we are dedicated to equitable, inclusive programming and services where everyone is welcome.