Meet Farm Intern Daniel Kawamura
Unlike most people, Daniel Kawamura of Des Moines enjoys weeding and the satisfaction that comes from seeing a clean garden bed. A recent Iowa State horticulture graduate, Daniel is getting lots of weeding time at the Wallace Farm and appreciates how his work in the garden benefits other people, such as during the Pizza on the Prairie event. "Putting vegetables on pizza makes people eat more veggies," he said. Daniel is especially looking forward to working in the orchard and learning organic production practices. He hopes to apply what he's learned during his internship to full time employment.
You Gotta See This!
Ever wondered what artifacts WCI has in its collection? Now you can go online and see some of WCI's historic photos and learn the stories behind them. Program manager Caroline Schoonover has posted 3 groupings on WCI's web site covering the Wallace family, historic photos of the Wallace House, and Henry A. Wallace's 1944 trip to Asia plus 2 related videos. This work was made possible by an American Rescue Plan grant from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. More will be added soon!
Harvest Time History
Plan a trip or 2 to the Wallace Farm this fall for more History Lesson Lunches! Caroline will be presenting programs on Wednesday, October 12 about harvest time on the farm & holidays on Wednesday, November 16. She'll pull stories and letters from historic issues of Wallaces' Farmer and pose questions for much discussion and reminiscing around the tables! History Lesson Lunches include a 3-course lunch. The 90-minute program begins at 11:30 am.
Pizza on the Prairie: Summer in Iowa
It's hard to believe that we're halfway thru the 2022 Pizza on the Prairie season! But there's still plenty of time for you to travel to the Wallace Farm for the first time or a repeat trip. One of our most popular programs, Pizza on the Prairie has attracted visitors from multiple Iowa counties and states just this year! Chef Hans creates a different pizza special each week, plus sides, desserts and a signature cocktail, all made from fruits, veggies and herbs grown just steps away from the kitchen. Live music, yard games and the Prairie Art exhibit top off the event. Get your gang together and tell us to save you a spot on the lawn!
I Dare You!
With 80+ paintings in the Prairie Art Exhibit, I dare you to choose just one as your favorite! Come take a walk thru the 9-acre prairie at the Wallace Farm and admire the artwork from community artists of all ages and skill levels. The "Roots & Wings" exhibit is open dawn-dusk every day until October 1 (buildings open 9-4 M-F). If you haven't been before, be prepared for a gentle 1-mile walk on a mowed grass path. Comfortable shoes are a must, and don't forget the sunscreen and bug spray! Thanks to the Knock Family Charitable Fund, there's no admission fee.
Book Hearts & Homes Teas Now
Readers of Nancy Cantwell Wallace's Hearts & Homes column, published from 1895 to 1909 lend their voices to this monthly program at the Wallace House. Each program and menu is a little different so you can come back again and again.
Choose from dates open to the public, or ask about a date for your private group.
Fall Garden Classroom Programs
Gardening is a year-long passion for many. Two upcoming Garden Classroom programs will help you transition to indoor growing and plan for next year's efforts. Each program is 2 to 4 pm; dessert & beverage included. Sign up soon!
Oct 5 – “Growing Healthy African Violets”
Becky Smith & Betty Marxen, Lenox
1 Master Gardener Continuing Ed hour
Nov 9 – “Growing Giant Pumpkins in Iowa”
Dan Boelman, Urbandale
1 Master Gardener Continuing Ed hour
Your Support Is Needed!
You might remember that the December derecho knocked down our historic replica garden fence at the Wallace House. A team at Woodland Fair salvaged what they could and designed a new fence with improved materials and sturdier construction. The garden fence adds so much to the historic property--in fact, many senior photos are taken next to it! We're still in need of about $4,000 for the replacement. Your gift would be welcome!
COVID Response
Currently we have no requirements but continue to monitor CDC guidelines.

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The Wallace Centers of Iowa
Wallace House
756 16th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50314

Wallace Farm
2773 290th Street, Orient, Iowa 50858