Tours of historic buildings featured at event
About 350 people attended the 31st annual Strawberry Fest, Craft Fair and Antique Appraisal Fair held June 28 at the Iola Historical Society.
Visitors enjoyed strawberries and toured the historic village buildings. They were also able to visit the caboose and the Iola & Northern Railway depot, which is undergoing restoration to its original design.
During the event, the Bob and Stella Strand Research Center was officially dedicated.
Several members of the Strand family were present for the dedication, including Stella, who is an active IHS member.
The recently completed center includes shelving to hold more than 100 years of Iola Herald newspapers as well as other items.
A computer area is available for people to access file photos and to do research on family history.
All proceeds from the Strawberry Fest benefit restorations of the historic Iola & Northern Railroad depot, the vintage caboose, and other Iola Historical Society projects.
The Society’s next special event is Taste of Norway & Lost Arts Fair on Saturday, Oct. 3.
The Iola Historical Society’s village is open from noon to 3 p.m. Saturdays in July and August.