Welcome, Group Travelers!
Henry A. Wallace was elected US Vice President, yet his place in “America’s first family of agriculture” was by virtue of his birth. Early in his career, he founded a world-renowned seed corn company and was an editor of Wallaces’ Farmer magazine. He served as Vice President during WWII in addition to holding cabinet positions before and after the war. Your group will learn more about the Wallace family’s legacy as they tour this historic site.
Visit the Wallace Farm
The Birthplace Farm
Open year-round, the Wallace Farm, now on the National Register of Historic Places, is a 40-acre parcel of the family’s original 160-acre farm.
Historic Site
The farm was owned by “Uncle Henry” Wallace, later the first editor of Wallaces’ Farmer. His son, Henry C. (Harry) Wallace moved here in 1886 to raise purebred Shorthorn cattle, Percheron horses, Poland China hogs, and feeder cattle. Henry A. was born on the farm in 1888.
Restored Farmhouse
The Farmhouse is a common example of rural homes throughout Iowa from the late 1800s and early 1900s. It now houses our Gift Shop.
Gathering Barn
Built in 2003, the Gathering Barn replicates the original barn that stood west of the house in the early days of the farm.
Restored Iowa Prairie & Sculpture Walking Path
The 9-acre prairie provides an ever-changing landscape of grasses and forbes surrounding 5 outdoor art sculptures.
Orchard & Produce Garden
About 8 acres in size, the Orchard and Produce Garden yields 40+ varieties and includes a planting of sweet potatoes set aside for food-assistance programs.
Geothermal Greenhouse – NEW!
Drawing from the earth and sun for heating and cooling, the geothermal greenhouse provides fresh produce year-round.
Henry A. Wallace Historic Corn Plot
Select varieties show the evolution of corn and Henry A. Wallace’s role in hybridization. Wallace founded the Hi-Bred Corn Company in 1926, better known as PIoneer Hi-Bred.
Special Exhibits
Prairie Art Exhibit:
80+ themed paintings by community artists of all ages and skill levels are displayed in the 9-acre prairie from June to early October. A gentle one-mile grass path connects all the artwork, 5 permanent outdoor sculptures and a farm pond. Comfortable walking shoes a must.
