Guthrie County Historical Village

GCHV:  phone 641.755.2989  |  email gchv@netins.net  |  206 W South St—Panora, IA  50216
Inside the Implement Building

1. The MAIN BUILDING: The main complex is home to various displays of life around 1900, such as a dentist's office, a telephone switchboard, military uniforms and equipment dating from the Civil War, and the old Panora Hotel's lobby. There are several animal cases containing species native to this area, a valuable rock and gem collection, as well as Native American artifacts, and many hats, clothing, and costume jewelry in our millinery display. The research library houses books, photos, and maps documenting the history of the county, the State and the Nation. The restrooms and a water fountain for visitors, as well as the curator's office, are also located here.

7. The IMPLEMENT BUILDING: This large compound contains a collection of antique farm equipment, horse-drawn plows, tractors, a threshing machine and binder, and many other items typically found on early-working farms. Also on display are antique cars, covered wagons, and a tribute to Guthrie County coal miners.

11.  The LAW OFFICE: 

The Batschelet Law Office, as it is now known, was originally built in 1878.  It was donated by the Batschelet family to the GCHV in 2004 and was moved to the complex in 2006 for restoration.  It is full of original documents, leather-bound law books dating from the 1870s, furnishings, and even the original walk-in safe.  [More Information]

Guthrie County Historical Village

Tour the Village

GUTHRIE COUNTY HISTORICAL VILLAGE

5. The CHURCH: The New Bethel Methodist Church, built in 1913, was originally located southwest of Guthrie Center and has been used since that time. The congregation still holds services at the Historical Village once a year, and for special occasions, such as weddings, the church is available for rental to the public (If you are interested in reserving the church for a special event or social gathering, please call the Village [641.755.2989] or send an email for more information.). The church features eight original stained-glass windows with many items that have been donated by churches in Panora. The pump organ is from St. Cecilia's Catholic Church, the wooden pews are from the Church of the Brethren, and the communion service is from the Presbyterian Church. [More Information]