History

McElhinny House

Step back in time and discover the rich history of Fairfield at the McElhinny House. This historic gem, built in 1851 by carpenter John Lind and his sons, is one of the oldest buildings in the area. Made from native Skunk River lumber, carefully hand-hewn and crafted with care, the McElhinnys spared no expense in decorating their home with elegant rosewood, walnut and mahogany furnishings. The two-story frame structure follows an L-shaped plan. Its prominent feature is the two-story porch that covers three of the five bays on the main facade.

Once the community’s showplace, the McElhinny House has had a long history of entertaining guests with genuine hospitality. After years of being used as a grade school, it was purchased by the Fairfield Women’s club, which was willed funds by Elizabeth McElhinny herself. Since then, the house has been lovingly restored to its original beauty and entered into both Iowa and National Registers of Historical Homes.

Today, the McElhinny House still exudes its New England dignity and remains a source of pride for the community. The Women’s club continues to offer the early day hospitality by sharing the house for various events. And with the addition of a new Carriage House and patio in 2005, the McElhinny House is now better equipped to preserve and restore its historic allure for decades to come.

Visitors can view the exterior of the house at any time. Interior tours are by appointment.641-472-3241

300 N. Court St
Fairfield, Iowa 52556 

Elm Grove School House

Elm Grove School, Center District # 4, is one of 400 one-room country schools left in Iowa and is currently located on the grounds of the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.  The first schoolhouse was a log building. When the people got together to build the log house there were so many elm trees where the building was built that they called it Elm Grove. The school was surrounded by bushes and brush and Crude benches and a fireplace were all the equipment they had. From 40-60 students attended this school. The present school building was built in 1866.

 

Elm Grove is currently open for touring during the Greater Jefferson County Fair each year.  Open to the public to view the exterior at all times. Interior available to view during the Jefferson County Fair.

2606 W Burlington Ave
Fairfield, Iowa 52556 

Bonnifield Cabin

The Bonnifield Log House is thought to be the oldest existing two-story log house in Iowa. The cabin was built in 1838 by Rhodham Bonnifield and his sons and served as the unofficial Methodist church. It was also a stopover place for many official guests, such as territorial politicians, governors, delegates to Congress, and judges who found hospitality in the Bonnifield home as they were traveling through the Iowa territory. Indeed it was Mrs. Bonnefield who is credited with naming Fairfield, suggest that it was a fitting name for the beautiful prairies that made up the area.

In 1908, the cabin was moved and refurbished by the Old Settlers Association, without who’s help the cabin surely would have not survived. The cabin’s current location in Waterworks park on the north side of Fairfield. Visitors are able to get a glimpse into the past as the exterior is open to the public for viewing at all times. The interior, however, is not open but we have included a few photos below to give you an idea of its layout and furnishings.

Waterworks Park
N. B Street
Fairfield, Iowa 52556 

Heritage Trails

Heritage Trails
The Heritage Trail is a tour of historic buildings in Fairfield, and is also a virtual tour complete with much information about the history of Fairfield.
Fairfield has a rich foundation in cultural history, and has many historic and architecturally interesting buildings. For instance, the first and second Iowa State Fairs were held in Fairfield in 1854 and 1855. Come visit Fairfield and experience the historic Heritage Trail which includes:

    An architecturally distinctive Barry Byrne-designed prairie style home (one of the best in the Midwest).
    The first of a total of 1,689 Carnegie Public Libraries.
    A dwelling built in 1838 (the birthplace of Fairfield).
    And even an early Dairy Queen store.

Main Location


Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

Carnegie Library Museum

Carnegie Library Museum

This Iowa Century Museum dates back to 1877 and is housed in Fairfield’s former library building, the first of 1,689 endowed by Andrew Carnegie. The Library and its third-floor Museum Opened in 1893 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Click here to take a 3-D tour of the many exhibits!

Native American pottery, the seated monkey & other examples of 19th century taxidermy remain on display.  Most of the taxidermy was donated by the Smithsonian at the request of Senator James F. Wilson, a Fairfield native.

112 South Court, Fairfield, Ia.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday – Friday  12:00pm – 4:00pm

Saturday 11:00am – 3:00pm

Fairfield 1st Fridays Art Walk night 6pm – 9pm

Main Location

112 South Court
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website

Maasdam Barns

Maasdam Barns

Discover the captivating history of early agriculture at Maasdam Barns! This fascinating site in Jefferson County takes you on a journey through the industrial enterprises of the 19th and 20th century. Experience the legacy of the Maasdam draft horse breeding business, marvel at Louden manufacturing and their ingenious agricultural inventions, and explore the rugged farm wagons from Turney Wagon Works, built for durability and horse-friendly efficiency.

Step back in time to 1906, when Jacob Maasdam brought 47 Percheron horses and a Shetland pony to Fairfield, transforming Jefferson County into a renowned horse market, boasting world champions like Louis d’Or, the colossal Belgian horse. At the Evergreen Ridge Stock Farm, the historic Maasdam Barns stand as a remarkable representation of early 20th-century draft-horse breeding. These two barns, designed by the innovative Louden barn design division, showcase modern construction techniques, including poured concrete walls and impressive Louden barn products.

Embrace the allure of the past and immerse yourself in the rich agricultural heritage of Maasdam Barns. With award-winning Percheron draft horses raised and sold here from 1910 to 1938, the barns are a treasure trove of historical significance. Experience the spirit of this bygone era and make unforgettable memories exploring the captivating history of this remarkable location. Plan your visit today and let the stories of Maasdam Barns enchant you!

The Maasdam Barns are open from mid-May  to mid-November
Hours fpr the 2023 season are 10am-1pm on the 2nd Saturdays.
In addition, tours are available by appointment.call 641-919-8061

Located on Hwy 1 south, just past the hospital.
Read more about this historical location

 

Main Location

2224 IA-1
South Hwy 1
Fairfield, IA 52556 

Website