March 28, 2024

Updates taking shape to farmhouse, grounds at Country Life Center

By CALEB NELSON

Adair County Free Press

ORIENT — After finishing up what organizers say was a very successful summer season of events, Deborah Houghtaling says a lot of improvements are being made at the Country Life Center northeast of Orient this fall.

Houghtaling, who serves as President/CEO of the Wallace Centers of Iowa, says work is underway on a project to repair and improve the birthplace farmhouse of former Vice President Henry A. Wallace. To do it, the Wallace Centers of Iowa announced in August they had received a $41,055 State of Iowa Historical Resource Development Program grant in which they would have to match.

Specific work was to include a leaky roof and replace windows and siding. Work began in August and Houghtaling is still holding onto hope it will be done before winter weather hits, although they are waiting on windows to arrive because much of the rest of the work has to be done after the windows are installed.

The Country Life Center also installed a new sidewalk and educational signage on their property.

“The farmhouse really anchors this location. It is the historic structure on the property, so we have to make sure it’s in good condition,” Houghtaling said. “The signs, we’re trying to focus on some things that will enhance a visitor’s experience at our property.”

Houghtaling said over 1,500 people visited the Pizza on the Prairie events that were held over a 15-week span this summer and fall. Visitors came from 18 different Iowa counties and five states for the pizza, nature experience, conversation with others, live music, and more.

Houghtaling said over 1,500 people visited the Pizza on the Prairie event that was held over a 15-week span this summer and fall. Visitors came from 18 different Iowa counties and five states to experience pizza, socialization, live music and wide open spaces at the Country Life Center.

“I’m going to say 80% of the people who were out here also walked along our prairie path to experience the prairie art exhibit we had going on. It’s a whole property experience, so with the new signs, they really talk about the history of the Wallace family, why they’re important and why people should know about them,” Houghtaling said. “People can enjoy those signs while we have an event going on, but they can also stop by on a weekend or evening and get information about what this place is.”