Tour Inside The Iowa 1871 John K. Voorhees Mansion With Amazing Floors

Set amidst the picturesque rolling fields of Iowa stands a remarkable example of 19th-century craftsmanship and vision—the John K. Voorhees Mansion.

Built in 1871, this stately Italianate brick residence captures the grandeur of the Victorian Era while offering the comfort and efficiency of modern living.

Known locally as the “Pella Victorian Villa,” the mansion remains one of Iowa’s most distinguished historic homesteads, steeped in agricultural heritage and architectural refinement.

From the moment one approaches the estate, its presence commands attention. The three-story structure rises gracefully from the surrounding landscape, its symmetrical façade and bracketed cornices reflecting the romantic ideals of the Italianate style.

The tall, arched windows—replicated in recent restorations by Pella Windows to match the original designs—add an air of stately elegance.

Even after more than 150 years, the mansion still exudes a timeless dignity that speaks to the ambition and prosperity of its builder, John K. Voorhees, a pioneer farmer and influential figure in Iowa’s agricultural development.

Step inside, and the mansion’s history unfolds through every finely preserved detail. The first floor greets visitors with soaring ceilings, carved moldings, and richly colored hardwood floors that have earned admiration from architectural enthusiasts far and wide.

These floors, painstakingly restored, gleam beneath the natural light that filters through tall windows—a visual testament to 19th-century craftsmanship and enduring beauty.

The wide central hallway leads to a series of formal rooms designed for entertaining, where original door frames, plaster medallions, and ornate fireplace mantels tell of a time when artistry and domestic life were one and the same.

Yet, while the Voorhees Mansion honors its origins, it has also been thoughtfully adapted to meet the standards of the modern age. Every major system has been updated to ensure comfort and sustainability.

A geothermal heating and cooling system now runs quietly beneath the historic structure, providing energy-efficient climate control year-round. The electrical wiring has been modernized, and the exterior walls have been foam-insulated—ensuring that this grand home remains as comfortable as it is beautiful.

Each update, from the smallest fixture to the grandest restoration, has been carried out with sensitivity to the home’s architectural soul.

The kitchen—once a purely functional space—has been transformed into a warm and welcoming heart of the home. Blending rustic charm with modern amenities, it features updated appliances, generous counter space, and handcrafted cabinetry that mirrors the home’s historic character.

Just beyond, elegant dining and sitting rooms offer spaces that seem tailor-made for both family gatherings and formal occasions. Every room showcases meticulous woodwork and an appreciation for proportion, color, and texture that define Victorian elegance.

The second floor of the mansion reveals the same harmony of history and modern design. Here, spacious bedrooms line the hallway, each with large windows overlooking the Iowa countryside.

Updated bathrooms with contemporary fixtures and classic finishes blend seamlessly into the period design. The comfort level throughout is remarkable, proof that a house built in the 19th century can indeed feel perfectly suited for the 21st.

One of the most exciting additions to the Voorhees Mansion is the newly finished third floor. Once used for storage and servant quarters, it now serves as a bright and versatile living space. With its own staircase, this level features additional bedrooms, bathrooms, and a charming sitting area.

The conversion preserves the integrity of the original structure while opening new possibilities for family life, guests, or creative work.

Outside, a detached three-car garage with a separate workshop expands the estate’s functionality. The surrounding grounds—verdant and serene—recall the mansion’s agricultural roots. This land once symbolized the success of Iowa’s early farmers, and today it continues to frame the home in natural beauty and historical context.

Situated just off Highway 163, the Voorhees Mansion offers the rare combination of rural tranquility and accessibility. A short drive connects it to nearby towns and cultural attractions, allowing residents to enjoy peaceful countryside living without sacrificing convenience.

For historians, architects, or anyone with an eye for artistry, the mansion stands as a tangible link between Iowa’s pioneering past and its dynamic present.

For those who wish to learn more about this architectural treasure, searching “Pella Victorian Villa” or “John K. Voorhees Mansion” reveals its deeper story—of restoration, craftsmanship, and community pride. Each account adds a new layer to the legacy of this magnificent home, one that continues to inspire admiration more than a century after its creation.

Today, the 1871 John K. Voorhees Mansion is far more than a historic residence—it’s a living piece of Iowa’s heritage. Its exquisite floors, grand proportions, and thoughtfully restored interiors invite visitors to step back in time while appreciating the innovation that keeps it thriving. It stands as a reminder that true beauty endures not by resisting change, but by embracing it with respect for the past and vision for the future.