| Geisler Library Archives |
The primary purpose of the Archives is to document the history of Central College. Located on the third floor of the Geisler Library, the Archives room is the depository for reports, minutes, publications, programs, publicity, and artifacts relevant to the history of the College, of Pella, and of Dutch settlement in Iowa. Much of the material in the Archives can be used for genealogical research. Christine Peery is the Archivist.
The Archives had its beginning in the 1940's when the papers of Dominie Henry Scholte, founder of Pella, were given to the Library. A few years later, the Nollen papers were added. Today, the Archives houses a variety of material about Pella and its early days, including Bibles, diaries, journals, and histories of early families.
Though newspaper files are not complete, those that have survived are available in print and microfilm. The earliest newspaper is the PELLA GAZETTE Vol. I-IV (February 1, 1855 - February 1, 1860). The Dutch language newspaper PELLA'S WEEKBLAD is complete from Vol. 35-80 (May 15, 1896 - December 31, 1942) when it ceased publication. There are various issues preceding 1896, but only Vol. 9 of 1870 is complete.
The PELLA BLADE, which began in 1865, is represented by many single issues between 1865 and 1885. It is bound between 1885 and 1901, at which time it was superseded by the PELLA CHRONICLE, most of which is bound and/or on microfilm.
The Archives also contains various issues and volumes of other Pella newspapers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These include THE ADVERTISER, THE BANNER, THE BOOSTER PRESS (later called the PELLA PRESS), NIEUSBLAD, THE REPUBLICAN, THE TIMES, THE WEEKLY HERALD, and the WEEKLY VISITOR. Most of these publications are bound or available on microfilm.
Because Central College continues to have a strong affiliation with The Reformed Church in America, the Archives is also a depository for the minutes of the Synod of the RCA. The minutes are complete from 1771 to the present.
Though the schedule varies, the room is open approximately 2 1/2 days per week when classes are in session. Individuals with special research needs may make an appointment at the Circulation Desk to see the Archivist.
Helen Van Dyke Exhibit of miniature books.
See Library Hours page for Archives Availability, or call 641-628-5170 (Archives) or 641-628-5219 (Circulation Desk).