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Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Iowa

Experience 19th-century rural life at the Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Explore historic buildings and discover Mahaska County's pioneer heritage.

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Step back in time at the Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum in Oskaloosa, Iowa, where you can experience rural life in the 19th century. Explore historic buildings, antique farm equipment, and exhibits that tell the story of Mahaska County's pioneers and their way of life.

A brief summary to Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum/Mahaska County Historical Society

Local tips

  • Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the museum and participate in interactive exhibits.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events and workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum grounds are expansive and best enjoyed on foot.
  • Don't hesitate to ask the guides questions; they are knowledgeable and eager to share fascinating stories.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and historical displays throughout the farm.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Oskaloosa, head north on Highway 63. Turn east onto Glendale Road and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto Nelson Lane, and the Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum will be on your right. Parking is available on-site in front of the Mott General Store and along the gravel driveway. Large buses can park in the Bradbury Hall paved parking lot. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees.

  • Public Transport

    From Corn Belt, take a local bus service to Oskaloosa. Check local transit schedules for current routes and times. From the bus stop in Oskaloosa, use a rideshare service or taxi to reach Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum, approximately 1.5 miles away. A short taxi ride may cost around $7-$12. There are no direct public transport options to the museum itself.

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Discover more about Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum/Mahaska County Historical Society

The Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum, operated by the Mahaska County Historical Society, offers a captivating journey into Iowa's past. Founded in 1843 by Daniel and Margaret Nelson, the farm showcases the lives of the early settlers who shaped the region. The Nelson family raised six children on the farm, and it later became a historical site in 1958 after the passing of their grandchildren, Roy and Lillian. The museum features 15 historic buildings gathered from across the county, creating a pioneer village that reflects rural life between 1845 and 1958. Visitors can explore a log cabin, blacksmith shop, general store, one-room schoolhouse, post office, doctor's office, and more. The site also includes barns with an extensive collection of farm equipment and tools, a traditional museum building with a genealogy library, and a nature trail. Throughout the year, the Nelson Pioneer Farm hosts various events, including the annual Fall Festival, which celebrates pioneer living with games, crafts, demonstrations, and historical interpreters. The museum is open from May through September, offering self-guided tours where visitors can immerse themselves in the history and heritage of Mahaska County.

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