Where History & New Beginnings meet.

The Cottage at Woodland Farm is a testament to the rich history & community spirit of Fredericksburg, Iowa. In 1911 John Padden, son of the town’s founder, Frederick Padden, built the beautiful victorian farmhouse on a large acreage. Frederick played a pivotal role in shaping Fredericksburg, helping name the town and establish its first hotel, mill, and other essential services. His contributions laid the groundwork for the thriving small-town community we see today, a place where pride and tradition run deep.

John Padden’s story, however, took a different turn than his father’s. In the 1920s, after building the farmhouse and barns, he lost the property due to foreclosure, having borrowed money from a neighbor to complete the project. He and his family reportedly left town with nothing more than a buck wagon and mules, vanishing from local memory. Despite this, the house stood strong, quietly waiting for a new purpose.

Throughout the decades, the property changed hands many times, but its historical charm remained untouched. In the 1970s, the farm became a bed and breakfast, restored by the Engelbrecht family, who preserved its original woodwork and architectural beauty. Their vision for the land didn’t stop there; they planted a vineyard and transformed the farm into a bustling winery, producing thousands of bottles of wine each year. For a brief period, the property even became a distillery, adding yet another chapter to its evolving story.

Now, The Cottage at Woodland Farm is being brought back to life as a wedding and event venue, where history and modern elegance come together. Katie Maynes is carefully & intentionally restoring the farmhouse and barns, creating a stunning setting for all types of occasions. With beautiful outdoor spaces for ceremonies, a rustic barn for receptions, and cozy overnight accommodations for guests, The Cottage at Woodland Farm truly is a hidden gem ready to serve as the backdrop for life’s most cherished moments.

Katie felt it was ironic that the slogan for Fredericksburg is, “where your future begins”. It’s more than just a venue, it’s truly a reflection of Fredericksburg’s spirit and resilience. We can’t wait to host you at The Cottage at Woodland Farm.