Pella Corporation Transforms Community Landscape as Centennial Legacy

Less than 1% of businesses reach the 100-year mark—and one of them is right here in Iowa. This year, Pella Corporation, a locally founded and proudly grown in Iowa business, celebrates its centennial milestone. This milestone marks a century of innovation, growth, and unwavering commitment to the people and communities Pella Corporation has served since 1925. As Pella Corporation commemorates its centennial year, the company has unveiled transformative community enhancements that honor its deep local roots. 

In a special preview event for team members and media on April 30, 2025, Pella Corporation revealed three significant centennial projects: an elaborate new parade float, A Day at the Tulip Factory, created for the 90th Annual Tulip Time Festival, the inaugural Pella Trolley No. 1925 and the grand reopening of the renovated Pella Corporation Museum. These initiatives represent Pella Corporation’s investment in preserving local heritage while creating new community touchpoints for generations to come. 

Pella Corporation also unveiled its brand-new parade float, A Day at the Tulip Factory. From firing pots in the kiln to planting and growing each tulip, the float is inspired by Pella’s manufacturing teams who imagine what’s possible and bring it to life. 

In addition, as a special commemorative gift to Pella Historical Museums, the Pella Trolley No. 1925 made its debut. The free public shuttle ran between the parades, offering transportation services between downtown Pella and Pella Corporation Museum. 

The Pella Corporation Museum in the depot featured a century of company and shareholder family history, showcasing Pella’s spirit of innovation and commitment to manufacturing quality products for its customers. Favorite items were on display, along with never-before-seen vintage sales tools, marketing artifacts and original windows.

Looking ahead

Throughout its centennial year, Pella Corporation will continue hosting a dynamic series of commemorative events. Later this year, Pella Corporation will welcome visitors to experience the newly revamped Pella Plaza at the Iowa State Fairgrounds—a reimagined space that showcases the company's century of innovation and community partnership.