Unearthly Tales:
Triumph & Tragedy
Saturday, October 17
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As autumn shadows lengthen, climb aboard the Pella Trolley for an evening among Pella’s departed. Journey through Oakwood Cemetery as we uncover the triumphs, tragedies, and darker tales of five Pella residents laid to rest within its grounds. After your journey among the headstones, return to Strawtown Inn for drinks, light bites, and a final toast to the dearly departed.
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Event hosted in partnership with Pella historian Bruce Boertje, Strawtown Inn, and Visit Pella.
Boarding Location:
Strawtown Inn
1111 Washington Street
Pella, IA 50219
Tour Times:
5:00pm
6:15pm
7:30pm
Tickets:
Members $40
Non-members $45
Advance purchase required
FAQs
What will the event entail?
Your evening begins at Strawtown Inn, where you’ll board the Pella Trolley at your scheduled tour time. The trolley will carry you to and through Oakwood Cemetery as you hear the stories of five Pella residents laid to rest there. After approximately one hour, you’ll return to Strawtown Inn, where you can enjoy drinks, light bites, and the ambience of this historic inn.
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How is this year’s Unearthly Tales different from last year?
Unearthly Tales returns in 2026 with all-new stories and an all-new format! This year’s experience takes place on one evening (Saturday, October 17) rather than across two days. The entire cemetery tour will also be enjoyed from aboard the Pella Trolley. Whether you joined us last year or are venturing into Pella’s past for the first time, there will be new tales to uncover.
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What does my ticket include?
Your ticket includes the trolley tour and stories, as well as one beverage at Strawtown Inn. Additional drinks and light bites will be available for purchase.
How much walking will there be?
Very little! This year, the entire cemetery tour will be enjoyed from aboard the Pella Trolley. The trolley will carry you through Oakwood Cemetery as you hear each of the five tales, so guests will not need to walk between gravesites.
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How long does the tour last?
The trolley portion of the experience will last approximately one hour, from departure to your return to Strawtown Inn. You’re welcome to linger afterward to enjoy drinks, light bites, and the atmosphere at Strawtown.
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Where should I park and check in?
Parking and trolley boarding will take place at Strawtown Inn. Please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time so that the trolley can depart promptly.
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Is the trolley heated?
Yes! However, we recommend dressing for an October evening, particularly as you may spend some time outdoors before boarding or after your tour.
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Is the event accessible?
The Pella Trolley is equipped with an accessible ramp. Because this year’s cemetery tour takes place entirely aboard the trolley, guests will not need to navigate the cemetery grounds on foot.
