The Town of Spillville
Spillville is a predominantly Czech town of about 400 people, which was founded in 1854 by Joseph Spielman. Although the first few settlers were German, like Spielman, the majority to follow were Bohemian and Czechoslovakian. They all immigrated to the site lovingly called "Little Switzerland" and made it their home.
While the original name of Spielville has been Americanized, the traditional values are still a strong influence in Spillville's citizens, with an inviting mix of "Old World" atmosphere and modern hospitality. Even the look and feel of the neatly kept lawns, gardens and homes sends one reminiscing about an earlier age, where time didn't seem to mean so much and certainly wasn't as pressing.
Several "Old World" features of this picturesque village include the Town Square with its Sailors' and Soldiers' Memorial Bandstand, built at the end of the First World War; the Inwood Ballroom, one of approximately 20 left in the state of Iowa; the lofty St. Wenceslaus Church built on the hill; the town's Bily Clocks Museum, a collection of artful clocks given to Spillville by two brothers; as well as the tree-lined streets and charming neighborly feel when you walk down them. No wonder Antonin Dvorak didn't want to leave after his summer vacation was through!
Explore Historical Sites
In Spillville, we have a smaller than usual population, but we have always had larger than usual determination! Come and see for yourself all that this small town has to offer!
Riverside Park & the Inwood Pavillion
The citizens of Spillville have developed one of the most inviting parks in Northeastern Iowa. This park lies on the east side of the village and is bordered by the Turkey River and is the home of the 1925 Dvorak Memorial Stone and the site where Dvorak used to compose each morning. Riverside Park is the home of the Inwood Pavillion where famous bands have played. The Inwood has the finest portable polka floor in North America. It can also be rented out for special events such as wedding and anniversary receptions.
For more information, call 563-534-7158.
The annual Fourth of July day-long celebration includes a softball tournament, entertainment, food stands, beer tent, and a huge fireworks display at dusk.
St. Wenceslaus Church
Built in 1860, this historic church and unique cemetary houses the 1876 Pfeffer organ that Dvorak played regularly during the summer of 1893. The church was remodeled in 1956 and then restored to its original splendor in 1985. The congregation was formed in the 1850's, and the church was named after the patron saint of Bohemia.
View of the church from the cemetery. Note the unique crosses made by Charles Andera. See the new Cross Exhibit at the Bily Clocks Museum
St. Wenceslaus Church
The Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Bandstand
This bandstand was erected in the center of town in 1921 as a tribute to the American servicemen of World War I and still stands as an integral part of most outdoor celebrations.
The Old Mill
The mill was built in 1854 by Joseph Spielman. It has had a long and hard existence on the north edge of town, being washed away by flood at least five times in its past and changing owners at least eight times. One can still see the remnants of this most important structure of pioneer life.
The town of
SPILLVILLE