A rare and absolutely stunning opportunity awaits to own a piece of Iowa’s deepest agricultural and architectural history. This gorgeous, notable historic homestead—known as the John K. Voorhees Mansion or the Pella Victorian Villa—is now available. This 3-story Victorian Era Italianate Brick mansion, begun in 1866 and completed in 1871, is a true landmark offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern efficiency.
Key Features at a Glance
- Price: $599,900
- Location: 1261 185th St, Pella, IA 50219
- Bedrooms: 6
- Bathrooms: 6
- Square Footage: 4,289 sqft
- Architectural Style: 3-Story Victorian Era Italianate Brick Mansion
- Year Built: 1866 (Completed 1871)
- Key Updates: Geothermal Heating/Cooling, Updated Electrical, Pella Custom Thermal Windows, Finished 3rd Level, Exterior Wall Insulation.
- Lot Size: 1.51 Acres
- Parking: 3-Car Detached Garage
A Seamless Blend of Past and Present
Boasting over 4,000 square feet of meticulously renovated and updated living space, the mansion retains its original historic elements and character while incorporating the amenities and efficiency of a modern-day home. Every update has been thoughtfully executed to preserve the integrity of the 1870s design. The foundation is robust stone, and the stately roof is original slate, a testament to its enduring quality and the quality craftsmanship of its era. For those with a deep appreciation for history and preservation, this home represents a unique chance to be a steward of a property with significant ties to the region, providing a living connection to Iowa’s past.
Architectural Integrity and Custom Craftsmanship
The exterior presents a magnificent example of the Victorian Era Italianate style, characterized by its low-pitched roof, deep eaves supported by decorative corbels, and towering, stately presence. The original brickwork remains a stunning testament to the enduring materials used in its construction. One of the most remarkable features of the renovation is the attention paid to maintaining its Victorian character, particularly in the windows. Custom thermal pane windows were specially designed and fabricated by the renowned Pella Window company. These high-efficiency units were meticulously crafted to precisely echo the size, design, and appearance of the original windows from 1870, ensuring energy savings and superior comfort without sacrificing historical accuracy or aesthetic appeal.
Modern Comfort and Efficiency
While deeply steeped in history, the home offers essential, high-end modern comforts and efficiencies. The entire property benefits from a completely updated electrical system, providing superior safety and reliability for modern appliance use. For outstanding climate control and energy savings, the property features a cutting-edge geothermal heating and cooling system. This environmentally conscious and cost-effective solution drastically reduces utility expenses while maintaining consistent indoor temperatures year-round. Furthermore, the exterior walls have been injected with closed-cell foam insulation, dramatically improving the home’s thermal envelope and overall energy efficiency. This careful combination of preservation and modernization means the new owners can enjoy historic living without the typical maintenance and high-cost headaches associated with vintage homes.
Expansive and Versatile Interior
The sprawling interior encompasses 4,289 square feet, providing ample space designed for both grand entertaining and comfortable family living. The main levels feature a beautiful mix of quality flooring, including well-maintained original hardwood and newer, plush carpeting in select areas. The home includes an impressive six bedrooms and six bathrooms, offering unmatched versatility. This layout is ideal for a large family, frequent long-term guests, or even a potential business venture such as a high-end bed-and-breakfast. The living areas are enhanced by a charming masonry fireplace, adding warmth, ambiance, and a classic focal point to the main room. A finished basement also adds considerable usable space, perfect for storage, a recreation room, or a home gym.
The Newly Finished Third Level
One of the most significant recent additions and selling points is the newly finished third level. An expertly crafted, dedicated staircase now leads to this expansive, fully-finished area. This space includes additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and a cozy sitting area, transforming the mansion into a true, fully functional three-story home. This renovation provides incredible flexibility for its use—it could serve as a private and luxurious primary suite with a dedicated living area, a spacious retreat for older children or teens, or a large, dedicated home office complex away from the main family activity. This completion unlocks the full potential of the home’s vertical space.
