History of Pella, Iowa

Pella was founded in 1847 when eight hundred Dutch immigrants led by Dominie Scholte settled the area. It was the childhood home of Wyatt Earp. His brothers Warren and Morgan were born in Pella.

It is today one of the most unique towns in the state, featuring a number of local events and architectural sights. The Vermeer Mill is a fully functional 1850s-style windmill, reaching 134 feet high. The Pella Opera House, built in 1900 was renovated in 1990 and is now a popular entertainment destination, featuring stained glass windows and ornate tin ceilings. A canal winds through nearby Molengracht Plaza, home to a number of shops, restaurants, lodging, a movie theatre, and a full-size working drawbridge.

The annual Tulip Time festival is a celebration of Pella's Dutch heritage. It features tulip gardens, performances, crafters, music, food, Dutch costumes, and daily parades. The festival is held for three days during the first weekend in May.

A few miles to the west is Iowa's largest reservoir, Lake Red Rock, a popular destination for biking, hiking, boating and fishing.

Pella will soon be home to the new Earthpark, North America's largest indoor rainforest, as well as many new 10 story condos, restaurants, shopping areas, and a water park.