2024’s Big Project!
We started a big project with our train depot in 2024 by adding a platform like the original one from 1879, and brought in a 100 year old railcar and restored it. This year in 2025 we will work on an exhibit in the railcar and redoing the inside of the Depot. Stop and see all of the great additions.
Applique Quilts by Thuy Nguyen
You won’t want to miss this amazing exhibit of hand appliqued quilts by Thuy and quilted by Amish friends.
Thuy with her family fled Vietnam by boat in 1975 before it fell to the Communists. Thuy and her family landed in Iowa where she taught herself how to make quilts, learning how to applique and design her own works. She didn’t like quilting so became friends with her Amish neighbors who did the quilting for her.
So many intricate details in every quilt that you will want to take the time to see each one.
Cost is $8 to see this exhibit plus the Amish collection up for display. This exhibit will be up until around December 8th.
History of Hummels
This wonderful Hummel collection was donated by Eugene and Elda Way of Kalona, they collected for over 20 years with some unique cherished pieces.
Founding Families Exhibit
Many families are responsible for the establishment and growth of Kalona. The 2025 family highlighted is the John and Marilyn Woodin. Two cases of information, artifacts, and pictures are displayed in the meeting room of the Visitor Center.
Learn about the John & Marilyn, who were a big part of the establishment of the Kalona Historical Society being 2 of the original founders, and Marilyn started the Kalona Quilt & Textile Museum here at the Historical Village.
John was a minister at the Kalona United Christian & Baptist Church where he and Marilyn led Handbells for many years and all ages and Marilyn led the church chior.
Marilyn owned Woodin Wheel Antiques and Collectibles in downtown Kalona and stared the Kalona Quilt Show and Sale over 50 years ago.
Spool Cabinet Exhibit
The largest public display of spool cabinets that were given to stores for free with the purchase of product circa 1880-1915. New – The most complete book on spool cabinets with a value guide, includes the history of sewing thread from 1803. Order from the Kalona Historical Society for $24.95 + shipping $4.05 = $29.00. (Book is shown below)
Michael Zahs’s Antique Farm Tool and Kitchen Gadget Exhibit
With the addition of our historic barn we wanted to add some unique farm tools and kitchen gadgets to show you a glimps into what historic farmsteads would have had. See many primitive and handmade items in this collection.
Newly Finished Streetscape Exhibit
The new train depot project in progress this year is being made possible through individual contributions, fundraising, and grants from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation.