Today most people have no idea what it is like to live on a farm. However, if you are visiting Iowa you will want to check out the Living History Farms. There are many experiences visitors can have when they visit including what it was like to live on a farm, on an Indian farm, a pioneer farmstead, and even an early Iowa town.
The three working farms here have livestock and real crops so it is interesting to walk through and learn how the farm works and how agriculture affected America. There is a 1700 farm where you can learn how crops were grown by the Indians. Then, move to the 1850 farm to find out how early farmers used oxen to disc the prairie. Then, on the 1900 farm you will see how cast iron machines and horse power changed agriculture for good. You may then visit the Wallace Exhibit Center to see how today farmers impacts the rest of the population.
Another great place to visit is the 1875 town of Walnut Hill. You will see how a town functioned in 1875 with a general store, 14 homes, shops, drug stores, and other businesses. You don’t have to do all the exploring all on your own because there are historical interpreters available to talk to you about how life was in the past and answer any questions you may have. You will really travel back in time when you visit the Living History Farms in Iowa. The Living History Farms are open every day from May 1 through September 3. It is then open on Wednesdays through Sundays September 5 through October 21. The hours are 9 am until 5 pm. Admission is $11 for adults and $6 for kids 4-12.
