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The Livestock Barn

Preserving the past,

looking toward the future.

Johnson County Historic Poor Farm logo
Drawing of a seedling

Our Mission

The Johnson County Historic Poor Farm provides a public space for connecting to the land and local history through inclusive, community-led opportunities.

Large wooden cross located on the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm's unmarked cemetery
Tractor parked in front of the Dairy Barn
Gardeners and farmers seated in chairs in the North Shed talking to one another

Past

Where We've Been

Learn more about the farm’s history and how it has informed the land’s current and future uses.

Present

Where We Are

Learn more about what a day on the farm looks like now and efforts to transform the farm into a space to learn, connect, and heal.

Partnerships

Creating Place Together

Learn more about how local organizations have contributed their time and ideas to improve the farm.

Drawing of an artichoke

#JCHPF

Drawing of a bean pod

Come Visit

The public is welcome to visit the Healing Trail, open seven days a week from sunup to sundown.

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Note that certain areas of the farm are under active construction.

Please be considerate of farmers at work. Staff is available onsite by appointment only.

You may request a guided tour of the farm’s historic buildings and surrounding areas with the Johnson County Historical Society. Check out our Tours page to learn how.

Drawing of a watering can

Get In Touch

For general information about the Historic Poor Farm, please contact Ilsa DeWald or Jason Grimm:

Ilsa DeWald
Johnson County
Local Food and Farm Manager
319.688.5840
idewald@johnsoncountyiowa.gov

Jason Grimm
Iowa Valley RC&D

Farm Manager

319.622.3264

jason@ivrcd.org

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