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Kalona, Iowa
Kalona, Iowa
Kalona, Iowa
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Kalona is a city in Washington County, Iowa. It is part of the Iowa City metropolitan area. The population was 2,630 at the time of the 2020 census.[3] Kalona is the second-largest city in Washington County.[4]

Key Information

History

[edit]
Aerial view of Kalona and the surrounding area

Amish settlement in what is now the Kalona area began in the 1840s, placing the Amish among the first European settlers in the area. The split between Old Order Amish and Amish Mennonites occurred in the 1860s in most places, but it was not until the 1880s that the formal split occurred in Iowa, even though a process of sorting out between conservatives and change-minded Amish had begun a decade earlier or so in Iowa.[5] Most Amish Mennonites later assimilated and lost their Amish identity. The Beachy Amish broke away from the Old Orders in the 1920s.[6]

The Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railway built a 66-mile branch from Iowa City to What Cheer via Kalona in 1879.[7][8]

Kalona was established by the railroad on August 6, 1879.[9] The name was suggested to the railroad by a Mr. Myers, who owned a bull of that name. The town remained unincorporated until 1890.[10]

Geography

[edit]

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.15 square miles (5.57 km2), all of it land.[11]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical populations
YearPop.±%
1890211—    
1900530+151.2%
1910466−12.1%
1920632+35.6%
1930704+11.4%
1940765+8.7%
1950947+23.8%
19601,235+30.4%
19701,488+20.5%
19801,862+25.1%
19901,942+4.3%
20002,293+18.1%
20102,363+3.1%
20202,630+11.3%
Source:"U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 29, 2020. and Iowa Data Center
Source:
U.S. Decennial Census[12][3]

2020 census

[edit]

As of the census of 2020,[13] there were 2,630 people, 1,110 households, and 680 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,220.5 inhabitants per square mile (471.2/km2). There were 1,155 housing units at an average density of 536.0 per square mile (207.0/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 92.2% White, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 2.0% from other races and 4.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino persons of any race comprised 5.2% of the population.

Of the 1,110 households, 26.7% of which had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.1% were married couples living together, 5.7% were cohabitating couples, 27.6% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present and 16.7% had a male householder with no spouse or partner present. 38.7% of all households were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, 17.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years old or older.

The median age in the city was 43.2 years. 25.4% of the residents were under the age of 20; 4.1% were between the ages of 20 and 24; 23.2% were from 25 and 44; 22.5% were from 45 and 64; and 24.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.6% male and 52.4% female.

2010 census

[edit]

As of the census[14] of 2010, there were 2,363 people, 1,053 households, and 657 families living in the city. The population density was 1,158.3 inhabitants per square mile (447.2/km2). There were 1,141 housing units at an average density of 559.3 units per square mile (215.9 units/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 97.2% White, 0.4% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 1.1% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.0% of the population.

There were 1,053 households, of which 26.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.1% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.6% were non-families. 33.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the city was 45.7 years. 21.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.5% were from 25 to 44; 28.2% were from 45 to 64; and 23% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 45.5% male and 54.5% female.

2000 census

[edit]

As of the census[15] of 2000, there were 2,293 people, 947 households, and 597 families living in the city. The population density was 1,119.9 inhabitants per square mile (432.4/km2). There were 986 housing units at an average density of 481.6 units per square mile (185.9 units/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 98.08% White, 0.22% African American, 0.48% Native American, 0.39% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.26% from other races, and 0.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.09% of the population.

There were 947 households, out of which 27.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.5% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.9% were non-families. 33.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.5% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 24.4% from 25 to 44, 21.1% from 45 to 64, and 23.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 80.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 74.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,750, and the median income for a family was $45,897. Males had a median income of $30,776 versus $24,974 for females. The per capita income for the city was $22,474. About 5.0% of families and 6.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.6% of those under age 18 and 6.2% of those age 65 or over.

Culture

[edit]
An Amish buggy with a slow moving vehicle triangle on the back

Not far from Kalona is located one of the largest Amish settlements west of the Mississippi with eleven church districts and a population of roughly 1,200 people. It is the oldest in Iowa, founded in 1846.[16] The Kalona New Order Amish affiliation is one of the most liberal concerning the use of technology and allows tractors for field work. Kalona is the home of the Iowa Mennonite Archives, located at the Kalona Historical Village.[17] Noah Troyer (1831–1886), one of two sleeping preachers among the Amish Mennonites, lived three miles north of Kalona.[18]

Education

[edit]

The Mid-Prairie Community School District operates local area public schools.[19]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kalona, Iowa

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from Grokipedia
Kalona is a city in Washington County, , , located in the lowlands of the English River valley and recognized as the second-largest community in the county. As of the 2024 estimate from the U.S. Census Bureau, its population was 2,762, reflecting steady growth in this rural area part of the . The city is distinguished by its strong and Mennonite influences, hosting the largest settlement west of the , which has shaped its cultural identity since families first arrived in the region in 1846. Founded in 1879 with the arrival of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railroad, Kalona was named by early settler John G. Myers after his prize bull, following the rejection of his initial suggestion of "Myersville." The town's pioneer heritage is preserved through sites like the Kalona Historical Village, a collection of 12 historic buildings showcasing , and local history. Despite challenges from the decline of the railroad and shifts in rural economies, Kalona has thrived by embracing its unique cultural assets, earning the nickname "Quilt Capital of " for its tradition of , with over 40 quilt-inspired designs featured in the downtown streetscape. The local economy centers on , including and , alongside industrial, retail, and service sectors influenced by the community, which supports small businesses in crafts, antiques, and food production. Tourism plays a vital role, drawing visitors to Amish countryside tours, the annual Kalona Fall Festival in late September, and family-style dining experiences that highlight the area's heritage. With a focus on and intergenerational support—through public and private schools, a fitness center, and retirement facilities—Kalona continues to balance tradition and modern growth.

History

Early Settlement and Amish Arrival

The area encompassing modern-day Kalona, Iowa, was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, with the () being among the most recent prior to European arrival. European settlement in the region began in the mid-19th century, with the first families arriving in 1846 from established communities in , , and . This migration established one of the earliest settlements west of the , drawn by the area's fertile soils suitable for . In the pre-railway era, these pioneers focused on subsistence and commercial farming, cultivating crops such as corn, , and oats on homesteads scattered across Washington and Johnson Counties, while adapting to the challenges of frontier life without mechanized transport. During the 1870s, additional Anabaptist migrations bolstered the local community, including Mennonite families integrating with the existing Amish population and contributing to the growth of religious congregations in Johnson County. A significant development occurred in the late 19th century, as the broader between conservative Old Order and more progressive Amish Mennonites—unfolding primarily between 1850 and 1880—manifested locally, resulting in distinct community branches that shaped the area's cultural and religious landscape.

Incorporation and Growth

Kalona was established as a on August 6, 1879, with the extension of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railway through the English River valley in Washington County. The railway's arrival marked a pivotal moment, transforming the rural area into a hub for trade and settlement. Local settler John G. Myers proposed the name "Myersville" for the new station on his property, but railway officials rejected it; undeterred, Myers suggested "Kalona," the name of his registered prize bull, which they approved for its appealing, indigenous-sounding ring—unaware of its bovine origin. The community formalized its status with incorporation as a on May 22, 1890, enabling organized and development. Early infrastructure quickly followed, including the establishment of a to handle mail for arriving settlers and farmers, alongside the opening of essential businesses such as general stores and shops that supported daily needs and agricultural activities. These developments were bolstered by , which provided vital connectivity for shipping grain, livestock, and other farm produce from the surrounding fertile farmlands. Population growth reflected the town's expanding role as an agricultural center, rising from 211 residents in the 1890 to 530 by 1900, fueled by rail access that attracted more families and merchants. This influx built upon the foundational and Mennonite communities in the area, whose farming practices contributed to the economic base. Into the early , further expansions addressed the needs of the burgeoning population, including the construction of dedicated schools to educate local children and additional churches to accommodate growing congregations amid increasing settlement. By 1920, the population had reached 632, underscoring sustained development tied to and improved transportation.

Geography

Location and Physical Features

Kalona is a city situated in Washington County, southeastern , , and forms part of the . The city's geographic coordinates are approximately 41°29′14″ N, 91°42′07″ W. According to the Bureau's 2010 Gazetteer files, Kalona encompasses a total area of 2.15 square miles (5.57 km²), consisting entirely of land with no incorporated water bodies. The city's boundaries are contained within English River Township in Washington County. The terrain features gently rolling farmland characteristic of the Iowa prairie landscape, with an average elevation of 666 feet (203 m). Kalona lies immediately north of the English River, a tributary of the Iowa River, and is enveloped by expansive rural Amish farming districts that define the surrounding agricultural expanse.

Climate and Environment

Kalona experiences a humid continental climate classified as Köppen Dfa, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. This climate pattern results in distinct seasonal variations, with long warm periods supporting agricultural activities and shorter, freezing months bringing potential for snow accumulation. Annual precipitation averages 37 inches, primarily distributed during the growing season from spring through fall, while snowfall totals about 26 inches, concentrated in winter. Average temperatures reflect these extremes, with July highs reaching around 86°F (30°C) and lows near 66°F (19°C), fostering ideal conditions for corn and cultivation common in the region. In contrast, January features highs of about 32°F (0°C) and lows around 13°F (-11°C), often accompanied by windy conditions that exacerbate the chill. These ranges contribute to a comfort index of 7.0 out of 10, indicating moderate livability despite the seasonal swings. The local environment is shaped by , which has led to challenges such as and nutrient runoff into nearby waterways, including those in the English River watershed. Conservation efforts, such as the English River Watershed Management Authority, promote practices like saturated buffers and to mitigate these impacts and improve . Seasonal weather events add variability, with spring bringing heightened risks as part of Iowa's peak period from to , where Kalona's tornado damage risk exceeds both state and national averages. Such events underscore the need for preparedness in this agricultural heartland. The climate's reliable seasonal shifts also align with traditional farming cycles, enabling pasture grazing in summer and crop storage during winter, sustaining the community's sustainable, small-scale operations.

Demographics

Kalona's population has shown steady growth over the past century, reflecting its evolution from a small rural settlement to a vibrant community influenced by agricultural roots and modern economic ties. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, the population stood at 211 in 1890, increased to 530 by 1900, dipped slightly to 466 in 1910, and then rose progressively to 632 in 1920, 704 in 1930, 765 in 1940, 947 in 1950, 1,235 in 1960, 1,488 in 1970, 1,862 in 1980, 1,942 in 1990, 2,293 in 2000, 2,363 in 2010, and 2,630 in 2020. This trajectory indicates an average annual growth rate of approximately 1.09% in recent decades, outpacing both Washington County's 0.4% annual rate (from 21,704 in 2010 to 22,565 in 2020) and Iowa's statewide average of about 0.5% (from 3,046,355 in 2010 to 3,190,369 in 2020). Key drivers of Kalona's population trends include sustained Amish migration and family influxes since the mid-19th century, alongside an increasing number of commuters from nearby metropolitan areas. The Old Order settlement in Kalona, established in 1846 by migrants from and seeking affordable farmland, has been the largest west of the and contributes to growth through high birth rates—typically doubling the Amish population every 20-22 years—and low out-migration. More recently, proximity to Iowa City (about 20 miles north) has attracted non-Amish residents, including professionals commuting to the and Cedar Rapids tech hubs, facilitated by Highways 1 and 22. This urbanization influence contrasts with broader rural depopulation trends, where many small towns have declined due to agricultural consolidation. As of the 2024 U.S. Census Bureau estimate, Kalona's population is 2,762, continuing modest growth at around 1.09% annually, supported by related to its heritage and emerging opportunities post-2020 pandemic. These factors are expected to sustain expansion beyond county and state averages, with the city's comprehensive plan anticipating further increases tied to residential development and infrastructure improvements.

2020 Census Details

According to the , Kalona had a total of 2,630 residents, comprising 1,110 households and 680 families. The was 1,220.5 people per . The racial and ethnic composition of Kalona's was White alone at 90.7%, with or Latino (of any race) at 5.2%, two or more races at 2.6%, Black or African American at 0.9%, Asian at 0.3%, and American Indian and Native at 0.2%. The median age in Kalona was 40.8 years, with a distribution of 48.2% and 51.8% . According to the , the median household income was $72,766, while the poverty rate was 3.1%. Educational attainment among residents aged 25 and older showed 91.5% having graduated high school or attained a higher level of education, and 28% holding a or above. Additionally, 98% of the population were U.S. citizens, with 3.58% foreign-born as of 2023 updates.
Demographic CategoryPercentage/Value
White alone90.7%
Hispanic or Latino (any race)5.2%
Two or more races2.6%
Black or African American0.9%
Asian0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native0.2%
High school graduate or higher (age 25+)91.5%
or higher (age 25+)28%

Economy

Key Industries

Kalona's economy is anchored by several key sectors that reflect its rural character and proximity to larger urban centers. The largest industries by employment include educational services, with 231 workers, and social assistance employing 200 individuals, with 185 employees, and , , , and . These sectors collectively support a workforce of about 1,510 people, contributing to steady in the region. Agriculture remains a foundational industry, particularly through and Mennonite farming operations that emphasize sustainable practices. Local farms focus on corn, soybeans, and production, including prominent operations where small family herds—averaging 35 cows—supply without GMOs, herbicides, or pesticides. These enterprises, centered in the largest settlement west of the , also extend to for furniture and crafts, as well as handmade production, bolstering local output. farming contributes significantly to Washington County's annual agricultural production, which includes 115,431 acres of corn for grain and 94,289 acres of soybeans for beans, alongside substantial inventories that generated $266 million in net cash farm income in 2022. Manufacturing in Kalona operates on a small scale, with operations in —such as the production of organic products at facilities like Kalona SuperNatural—and , historically linked to the town's railroad origins in 1879 that spurred early industrial development. These activities employ workers in specialized roles, supporting the broader Washington County manufacturing base. Post-2020, Kalona has seen a modest shift toward opportunities, facilitated by its close proximity to Iowa City, allowing residents to access professional sectors while maintaining a rural lifestyle; this trend aligns with a 2.44% growth from 2022 to 2023. serves as a supplementary economic driver, complementing these core industries.

Employment and Tourism

Kalona's workforce totaled approximately 1,510 individuals in 2023, marking a 2.44% increase from 2022 and reflecting steady growth in the local labor market. The unemployment rate in Washington County, where Kalona is located, averaged 2.5% in 2023, indicating a robust environment compared to broader trends; as of November 2024, the rate in Kalona was 2.4%. Median earnings for full-time workers stood at $40,420 annually as of 2023, supporting a stable economic base tied to the community's agricultural and service-oriented sectors. Tourism significantly bolsters Kalona's economy, drawing visitors to its Amish heritage sites, including quilt shops, farm tours, and the Kalona Historical Village, which highlight traditional crafts and rural life. These attractions generate substantial revenue for local vendors and contribute to the area's identity as Iowa's "Quilt Capital," with guided bus tours offering insights into customs and backroad scenery. Key events like the annual Fall Festival, held at the Historical Village in late September, feature live demonstrations, handmade goods, and family activities that stimulate spending at nearby bakeries, craft stores, and eateries. Similarly, the Christmas Open House and Tree Walk in December attract holiday crowds for caroling, s'mores, and decorated displays, providing a seasonal boost to retail and hospitality businesses. Following 2020, Kalona has seen expanded initiatives, aligning with statewide growth where on-farm income from such activities doubled to $10.2 million by 2022, including farm visits and heritage experiences in the community. Additionally, online sales from and Mennonite vendors, such as custom furniture and bulk foods, have risen, enabling broader market reach while preserving traditional production methods.

Government and Infrastructure

City Administration

Kalona operates under a mayor-council form of government, with the mayor serving as the chief executive and presiding over a five-member city council elected at-large. As of November 2025, the mayor is Mark Robe, who was elected to a four-year term. The council members, including Jenelle Bender, Craig Spitzer, Joe Schmidt, Taylor Yeggy-Berg, and Eileen Beran, handle legislative duties such as policy-making and ordinance approval; council terms are four years, with elections held in odd-numbered years. Council meetings occur on the first and third Mondays of each month at 6:00 p.m. in city hall. City hall, located at 311 E. Iowa Avenue, serves as the central hub for administrative functions, including the appointment and oversight of a seven-member and commission. This commission, appointed by the council for staggered five-year terms, reviews development proposals, enforces zoning ordinances, and guides decisions to promote orderly growth. The city's comprehensive plan, first adopted in 2007 and updated in 2017, focuses on , preservation of community character, and infrastructure needs; a full revision process began in 2023 to incorporate recent population and economic changes, with ongoing input from the commission in 2024. The annual budget for 2025 (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025) projects total expenditures of $4,080,090, covering governmental activities ($2,724,436), business-type enterprises ($960,654), and inter-fund transfers ($395,000). Funding primarily comes from property taxes ($1,236,265) and charges for services, including utility fees ($1,112,644), with the approving the budget annually after public hearings. Kalona was incorporated as a on May 22, 1890, initially operating under basic statutory provisions for small municipalities. Over time, governance has advanced to include a city administrator position appointed by the for day-to-day operations and a codified municipal code that enforces contemporary standards for building permits, compliance, and regulations. The administration coordinates with public services like utilities but focuses on policy and regulatory oversight.

Public Services and Utilities

Kalona's municipal water and sewer systems are managed by the City of Kalona, providing essential services to residents through a network of mains primarily constructed from and materials. These systems support the community's growth by extending lines as needed, ensuring reliable access for households and businesses within . Electricity for Kalona residents is supplied by , which has been actively upgrading the local power grid to enhance reliability. Public safety in Kalona is handled by the volunteer-based Kalona First Responders, who provide (EMS) as a non-transport unit serving the city and surrounding areas. The Kalona , established in 1917, complements these efforts with and rescue operations for the community. The city maintains a low rate, with violent crimes occurring at approximately 2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, contributing to a overall environment. Recreational facilities in Kalona include the municipal Kalona Public Pool, an outdoor aquatic center open seasonally from late May to mid-August, offering swimming lessons, lap swims, and community events. The SouthTown Recreation Area spans over 93 acres of public parkland, featuring hiking paths, disc golf courses, fishing ponds, and playgrounds designed for accessibility. Complementing these are approximately 5 miles of trails across city parks, including loops in the SouthTown area and nearby conservation sites like Frytown, which promote outdoor activities such as walking and biking. The Kalona Public Library houses a collection of over 23,000 volumes, supporting community reading and educational programs with annual circulation exceeding 54,000 transactions. Recent infrastructure enhancements include trail expansions completed in late 2023 at the SouthTown Recreation Area, adding paved paths, naturescapes, and connections to existing networks for improved pedestrian access. In 2025, the city is advancing wastewater improvements through a multi-million-dollar project, including evaluations of advanced treatment systems like SAGR to meet state environmental requirements and increase capacity.

Culture and Attractions

Amish and Mennonite Heritage

Kalona hosts the largest Amish settlement west of the , established in 1846 by families from , , and seeking fertile farmland in Washington and Johnson Counties. This community comprises approximately 1,620 members (as of 2025) across 11 church districts, predominantly Old Order Amish but including a New Order subgroup that promotes more progressive interpretations of Anabaptist principles. The in Kalona emphasize disciplined living while permitting selective modern conveniences, such as field tractors with , distinguishing them from stricter Old Order practices. The Mennonite presence in Kalona traces its local roots to the late , with congregations like East Union Mennonite Church founded in 1889, building on the broader Anabaptist migration to . Today, the community includes several hundred members who maintain varying degrees of conservatism, from traditional to more assimilated groups. Central to preserving this heritage is the Iowa Mennonite Museum and Archives, established in 1971 as part of the Kalona Historical Village, which collects and safeguards Anabaptist documents, artifacts, and stories from Iowa's Mennonite and families dating back to the 1840s. These archives serve as a vital resource for genealogical research and cultural documentation, highlighting the shared Swiss-German origins of both groups. Shared Anabaptist traditions define daily life in these communities, including —modest, unadorned clothing that reflects humility—and reliance on horse-and-buggy transportation to preserve separation from worldly influences. youth participate in , a transitional period typically beginning at age 16, allowing exploration of the outside world before committing to and . remains a foundational belief, rooted in the 16th-century Anabaptist emphasis on and peace, influencing both personal ethics and communal decisions. Inter-community relations between and Mennonites in Kalona have evolved since the late 1880s, fostering cooperation despite the 1693 that separated the two from their common origins, as evidenced by joint contributions to local institutions and mutual respect for differing levels of . In contemporary adaptations, both groups limit technology to align with values of simplicity and community interdependence, with Old Order Amish forgoing grid electricity and automobiles while permitting pneumatic-tired tractors for farming efficiency. New Order and more progressive Mennonite subgroups incorporate modest innovations, such as shared telephones, to support economic needs without compromising core tenets. These communities contribute to local philanthropy through robust mutual aid networks, providing financial and practical support for members facing illness, disasters, or retirement without relying on external insurance, thereby reinforcing social bonds and self-sufficiency.

Historical Village and Events

The Kalona Historical Village, established in 1969 by the Kalona Historical Society, serves as a key cultural site preserving the area's pioneer heritage through a complex of 12 restored historical buildings and 4 museums spanning nearly a full . These structures, including a , schoolhouse, depot, and , house 19th-century artifacts that illustrate everyday life in 1800s , such as period furnishings, tools, and agricultural implements. The museums feature immersive displays on local history, including the Iowa Mennonite Museum and Archives, which houses collections on , and Mennonite migration patterns to , and genealogical resources for researchers. In 2025, updates include refreshed exhibits in the railcar and depot interiors, alongside programming for the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, highlighting the roots of these communities dating back to the 1525 Protestant in . Complementing the village are guided Countryside Tours, which provide bus excursions through scenic backroads passing Amish farms, homes, and businesses, offering insights into traditional rural lifestyles without intruding on private properties. These tours, available April through October, depart from central Kalona and integrate educational narration on local customs. Nearby attractions include the Quilt and Textile Museum within the village, showcasing handcrafted Amish quilts and textiles as exemplars of artisanal heritage, alongside specialty cheese shops like those producing organic varieties reflective of the community's dairy traditions. An interactive map on the village's website aids visitors in navigating these sites, plotting routes to the village, tours, and related shops for a self-guided . Annual events at the Historical Village draw crowds to celebrate Kalona's heritage through hands-on activities and seasonal festivities. The Fall Festival, held in late over two days, features craft demonstrations, live , handmade goods, food vendors, and children's activities like shows, with admission supporting village operations. From November through early March, the Open House transforms the village into a display, including the Christmas Tree Walk where visitors stroll among decorated trees, enjoy caroling, wagon rides, s'mores roasting, and warm treats amid illuminated historic buildings. These gatherings emphasize community preservation by educating attendees on Anabaptist history and the enduring cultural practices of and Mennonite settlers in the region.

Education

Public School System

The public education in Kalona, Iowa, is provided through the Mid-Prairie Community School , a rural serving the communities of Kalona, Wellman, and West Chester in Washington and Johnson counties. This district operates multiple attendance centers, with those directly in Kalona including Mid-Prairie East Elementary School (grades K-2, approximately 280 students) and Mid-Prairie Middle School (grades 5-8). The district's junior and senior high programs are housed at Mid-Prairie Middle School and Mid-Prairie High School (grades 9-12, located in Wellman), ensuring comprehensive coverage for Kalona residents. As of the 2024-2025 school year, the district enrolls about 1,155 students across all grades, reflecting stable rural enrollment trends with a slight decline from prior years. The four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate stands at 92.3%, exceeding the state average and underscoring strong student outcomes. Educational programming emphasizes STEM initiatives alongside -focused curricula, tailored to the area's rural economy, including robust courses that integrate hands-on learning in areas like animal science and . Facilities have seen targeted upgrades, including 2022 additions to Mid-Prairie Middle School that expanded classroom space for growing programs and incorporated modern infrastructure to support , such as enhanced network capabilities and tools. The district maintains a commitment to technology access for all students, with dedicated support for devices and online resources to advance instructional goals. Extracurricular opportunities abound, featuring over 30 athletic teams, including , , and track, as well as active chapters of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) that promote and agricultural among roughly 75 members. Funding for the district derives primarily from state appropriations and local property taxes, with an per-pupil expenditure of $22,220 as of 2024, enabling sustained investment in facilities, programs, and staff retention (92% rate). While the public system serves the majority of non- families, many Amish residents in Kalona pursue alternative private education options.

Amish and Private Education

In Kalona, , the operates approximately 13 parochial one-room schools serving grades 1 through 8, with a total enrollment of about 262 students across these institutions. These schools, such as Brookside, Centerville, and Sharon Bethel, are supervised by the Mid-Prairie Community School District but operate under religious exemptions from certain state standards, allowing them to align with values. Instruction emphasizes core subjects like reading, writing, arithmetic, and practical skills relevant to life, including farming and homemaking, typically taught by young, uncertified teachers in a single setting. The educational philosophy in these Amish schools prioritizes biblical principles, moral development, and vocational preparation over advanced academics, with formal schooling ending after to prepare students for apprenticeships and family roles rather than higher education. study is integrated daily, fostering , , and separation from worldly influences, while vocational training reinforces self-sufficiency through hands-on activities like or . Graduation equivalents are achieved via these apprenticeships, which provide real-world skills in trades essential to the Amish economy. Mennonite families in Kalona have access to Hillcrest Academy (formerly Iowa Mennonite School), a private Christian school serving grades 6 through 12 with approximately 170 students and a faith-integrated curriculum that combines rigorous academics with Anabaptist teachings. The school emphasizes college preparation alongside biblical worldview education, distinguishing it from Amish models by offering higher education pathways while maintaining Mennonite heritage. is also prevalent among both and Mennonite families as an alternative for personalized instruction aligned with religious convictions, though exact numbers are not tracked locally. Post-2020, Amish schools in the region adapted to pandemic disruptions by shifting to paper-based remote assignments rather than digital tools, preserving their commitment to limited technology while ensuring continuity of basic education. This approach highlighted ongoing challenges in balancing health needs with traditional separation from public systems, including supervised oversight by the local district.

References

  1. https://www.cityofkalona.org/index.asp?SEC=D5DB9FC7-80F0-474D-909C-D23D56F09F4B
  2. https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2020s-total-cities-and-towns.html
  3. https://www.kalonachamber.com/
  4. https://thekalonahistoricalvillage.com/
  5. https://kalonaiowa.org/tours/meet-the-amish/
  6. https://www.kalonachamber.com/kalona-living
  7. https://ouriowaheritage.com/washington-township/
  8. https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Kalona_Old_Order_Amish_Settlement_%28Kalona%2C_Iowa%2C_USA%29
  9. https://amishamerica.com/10-oldest-amish-settlements/
  10. https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Amish_Mennonites
  11. https://amishamerica.com/amish-kalona-iowa/
  12. https://ambrosiabrewcoffee.com/products/bulltown-blend
  13. https://www.city-data.com/city/Kalona-Iowa.html
  14. https://kalonaiowa.org/map/post-office/
  15. https://www.iowadatacenter.org/datatables/PlacesAll/plpopulation18502000.pdf
  16. https://www.edwardsideas.com/portfolio-item/kalona-historical-village/
  17. https://edits.nationalmap.gov/apps/gaz-domestic/public/summary/2395485
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  24. https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/weather/2025/04/01/when-is-tornado-season-in-iowa-accuweather-2025-tornado-forecast-nws/82754353007/
  25. https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/pdf/2020census/cities.pdf
  26. https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/iowa/kalona
  27. https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/pdf/2020census/counties.pdf
  28. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/IA
  29. https://kxrb.com/the-rich-and-surprising-history-of-the-amish-settlements-in-iowa/
  30. https://www.cityofkalona.org/vertical/sites/%7B711028D0-FD55-400A-8310-1E0729562D1D%7D/uploads/Kalona_Comp_Plan_DRAFT_8_21_2017_low_res.pdf
  31. https://www.iowapublicradio.org/2021-08-22/how-a-handful-of-iowa-towns-thrive-rise-above-rural-decline
  32. https://datausa.io/profile/geo/kalona-ia
  33. https://kalonasupernatural.com/simple-methods/amish-mennonite-farms/
  34. https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/Online_Resources/County_Profiles/Iowa/cp19183.pdf
  35. https://kalonasupernatural.com/
  36. https://www.thegazette.com/news/washington-area-boasts-diverse-industries/
  37. https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LAUCN191830000000003A
  38. https://datacommons.org/place/geoId/1940170
  39. https://www.kalonachamber.com/tours
  40. https://midwestweekends.com/plan-a-trip/history-heritage/ethnic-towns/kalona-iowa-amish-organics/
  41. https://kalonaiowa.org/fall-festival/
  42. https://kalonaiowa.org/event/kalona-historical-villages-holiday-open-house-christmas-tree-walk/
  43. https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/the-current/iowa-agritourism-growing-industry-agriculture-pumpkin-patches-apple-orchard/526-885f7727-1eaa-4b42-8bff-6136ade35825
  44. https://amishfurnitureia.com/
  45. https://www.cityofkalona.org/index.asp?SEC=1A14BD0A-8699-4C58-BA27-5C03087ED8B8
  46. https://www.bestplaces.net/voting/city/iowa/kalona
  47. https://www.kciiradio.com/2025/11/04/washington-county-2025-school-and-city-election-results/
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  51. https://www.thenews-ia.com/stories/kalona-starts-ball-rolling-on-new-comprehensive-plan%2C88897
  52. https://www.thenews-ia.com/stories/kalona-pz-defers-action-on-zoning-request%2C121769
  53. https://www.cityofkalona.org/vertical/sites/%7B711028D0-FD55-400A-8310-1E0729562D1D%7D/uploads/2024-2024_Budget_Public_Hearing_Notice.pdf
  54. https://sos.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/2025-02/IncCities.pdf
  55. https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/kalonaia/latest/kalona_ia/0-0-0-1
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  58. https://thenews-ia.com/stories/alliant-energy-partners-with-homeserve-plans-new-easements-in-kalona%2C160613
  59. https://www.facebook.com/KalonaQRS/
  60. https://www.facebook.com/p/Kalona-Volunteer-Fire-Department-KVFD-100064895015074/
  61. https://crimegrade.org/violent-crime-kalona-ia/
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  89. https://www.mphawks.org/district/departments/technology
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