A Trip Down Memory Lane at Tyden Farm No. 6

Recently I got the privilege of visiting Tyden Farm No. 6 with some of the other North Iowa Bloggers and what a treat it was!

The impressive Tyden No. 6 barn
The impressive Tyden No. 6 barn

The History of Tyden Farm

Tyden Farm No. 6 is located outside Dougherty, Iowa in North Central Iowa.  It is owned by Ted & Judy Pitzenberger, who bought the farm from the Tyden family in the 90’s.  Emil Tyden was a Swedish immigrant who bought several acres of premium Iowa farmland in the early 1900’s and built up a total of 8 farms!  He was a very forward thinking man and was very good to his workers, and because of that he was beloved in the area!  Tyden owned over 200 patents and made his fortune in the industrial sector of the world (Viking sprinklers and the Cargo Seal, which is still used by companies today are his most well-known accomplishments).  However, he also made a strong impression on the agricultural world in North Central Iowa and the people of Dougherty.

Ted explaining to us how the water tower (in the background) worked to provide water to the entire farm!
Ted explaining to us how the water tower (in the background) worked to provide water to the entire farm!

Tyden Farm No. 6 Now..

Pitzenberger’s have worked hard to preserve not only the buildings of Tyden’s No. 6 farm, but also his history and legacy!  Ted & Judy started our tour with a 20 minute documentary film about who Emil was and all of his accomplishments along with the history of the farm! Then, they took us to tour the farm.  The massive barn, the cement block corn crib, the water tower, the gardens, and the museum are all just as impressive as they were many years ago!

The Pitzenberger’s have worked tirelessly to keep the buildings in excellent condition.  This includes the hog house that was dilapidated and renovated dramatically to house their museum.  Their museum holds an extensive collection of home goods, toys, clothes, and holiday decorations from years past!  Also, in here you can enjoy a powerpoint presentation about the house on grounds.  (Because it is their personal residence the home is not part of the tour).

The cement block corn crib that is still in exceptional condition!
The cement block corn crib that is still in exceptional condition!

It is clear that Judy has put great thought into the theme gardens around the farm and it is a labor of love for her to care for them.

This frog was probably my favorite thing in Judy's extensive gardens!
This frog was probably my favorite thing in Judy’s extensive gardens!

 

The Tour

Of course, you can’t forget the great lemonade and cookies that the Pitzenberger’s offer to all tours.  The farm is impressive, the tour is educational and interesting, and the Pitzenberger’s are great people.  The farm is open for tours from mid-July through September and for groups of all size.  You can call them to schedule a tour for your group (especially great for 4H clubs, Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts, school field trips, or just a family outing)!  Thank you to Ted & Judy for their exceptional hospitality and a great afternoon!

Connect with them:

Tyden Farm No. 6: http://tydenfarm.com/

Tyden Narm No. 6 on Facebook

Call: 641-426-4277

One of the many pieces of historic implements!
One of the many pieces of historic implements!

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