Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center

Dedicated in 1996, the Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center is the birthplace farmstead of Henry A. Wallace. The walking tour, organic produce gardens, programs and outdoor artwork introduce the great achievements of Wallace, who served as U.S. Vice President, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Secretary of Commerce and Founder of Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Henry A. Wallace was named the "Most Influential Iowan of the 20th Century" by the Des Moines Register in December, 1999.

The Center was developed to preserve the modest beginnings of Wallace. Because of his great accomplishments and contributions to the world, his principles, works, and writings are worth interpreting in the context of today's society. To be effective and relevant, the interpretation is presented using the environment, community building, education, the living arts and sustainable agriculture.

Today’s historical site consists of organic vegetable and fruit production for prairie harvest, a community supported agriculture garden, orchard, nine acres of restored prairie grasses, outdoor interpretive and interactive artwork relating to Wallace's achievements, a flower garden, soil conservation practices demonstrated on the land including a pond, terrace, small woodland, restored birthplace home, and a walking path throughout the farm. A barn replicating the utilitarian barn used on the farm at the turn of the 20th century is available to rent for programs, meetings, retreats, conferences, and family gatherings.

Nearly five acres of vegetable and fruit production is featured on the farm. The Center takes part in several farmers markets. Meals are also prepared using the fresh produce and the Gathering Barn is open for lunches every Friday, February through December. Thursdays are added June through September.