As the fertile soil of the Iowa landscape has nourished the lush growth of diverse prairie plants, Soul of the Prairie exists to nourish individuals and groups as they grow deep roots into the fertile soil of relationships with self, God and others.
We are committed to nurturing you just as the gentle gardener nurtures Creation with love, respect and the utmost of gentle care. Whether you want to walk the labyrinths, enjoy the tree-house porch, sit by the fire in The Roost, or just lay in the grass know that the space is waiting for you with welcoming arms!
Soul of the Prairie is located on a multi-generation working Iowa family farm. When you visit, you will kiss the spirit of a traditional Iowa farm and be drawn into the rich heritage it entails. You may even see us planting corn or harvesting soybeans - using our small but trusty tractors and combine. We farm the old way, using small equipment and in ways that nurture the already rich soil into the next generation.
Our large gardens provide our family and visitors with an amazing abundance of fresh produce. You are welcome to work in the gardens to your heart's content, if you wish, and take fresh produce home with you.
Our home and buildings have been lovingly maintained for generations, and have evolved with our family from the era of horse-drawn equipment to the present incarnation as Soul of the Prairie.
The Roost, the centerpiece of Soul of the Prairie, began life in 1916 as a chicken house - built by Huldah, Gordon's German grandmother. Within the walls of The Roost, Huldah - and later her daughter, Margaret - raised thousands of chickens which provided magnificent Sunday dinners for family and friends, and the weekly "egg check" which kept the family in groceries. Gordon's father, Bob, raised hogs in The Roost for a few years, and then turned it into a magical woodshop - where he created heirloom furniture and grandfather clocks for this and future generations.
Several years ago, the "still small voice" within became increasingly insistent to Mary that this tired, old chicken house become a place for stories and retreat. She had studied spirituality and spiritual direction intensively, and created and facilitated many women's retreats in her career as Christian Educator. The labyrinths, which had been created over many years, were yearning to share their power with more seekers.
And so, it happened...With the help of some amazing carpenters, much grace, and the blessings of friends nationwide, the old chicken house was transformed into The Roost, and Soul of the Prairie became an oasis of retreat, exploration, expression, peace, and stories for many.
Each visitor to Soul of the Prairie leaves a piece of their own Spirit in this place, becoming a "gathering of spirits" to hold all who call Soul of the Prairie "home."