MONTOUR — Carved out of the rolling hills of Tama County sits Pilgrim Heights Camp and Retreat Center, a recreational oasis since 1953. When the COVID-19 pandemic threatened its closure, Executive Director Elisabeth Curtis, who came aboard in September 2022, brainstormed ways to get the camp and center back on the public’s radar.

The site will hold a spring open house and artisan market Friday, May 12 from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Around a dozen vendors will be on hand with Meskwaki tacos available for purchase. Jewelry, art, pieces crafted from wood and laser engraved items will be offered for sale.

“We did our first open house back in November and had about 500 in attendance, which we thought was great for our first market,” Curtis said.

She noted that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the cancelation of approximately 95 to 98 percent of its bookings.

“While it’s not common knowledge, when I took charge of Pilgrim Heights, there was a very short period of time before it was set to close. With redecorating the cabins and revamping our whole business plan, we’re starting to really thrive,” she said. “With my plans and strategies put in place, we are now opening our calendars into 2025 and beyond.”

The idea to host these artisan markets came from her past experience as a seamstress.

“I love helping out local artists that need a way to get their goods out there. I figured what better way than to open up our awesome three-story reception hall where we have ample room for everyone,” she added.

Curtis, who lives in Marshalltown, said getting connected with Pilgrim Heights was kismet.

“My husband and I spent some time in Idaho then came back three years ago. We always wanted to open our own wedding venue. We started calling around, trying to figure out financing,” she noted.

She got in touch with Pilgrim Heights board treasurer Doug Husak who said the current director was leaving in a matter of weeks, and the position might be a good fit for her interests and skill set.

Curtis said she’s spent her time on the job doing outreach about what the facility has to offer.

“We’re getting into the 21st century with social media. It’s been a huge benefit. Just since I took over, we’re up about 6,000 percent (with followers),” she said. “My niche is building businesses and watching them thrive. We’re getting there.”

A non-profit organization, the United Church of Christ originally owned it. About 15 years ago, Pilgrim Height’s non-profit, Our Sacred Space, took over the running of things.

“We’re open to any and all persons to provide that sacred healing space in nature everyone needs,” Curtis said.

Guests can enjoy 100 private wooded acres, 80-acre recreational lake and beach, catch and release fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, Frisbee golf, challenge courses, cross-country skiing, education and nature labs and more.

“We promote taking a break from technology, enjoying the simpler things in life,” she said. “We have a gorgeous outdoor chapel that overlooks a lake, we have a three-story reception hall, a 12-room lodge, tiny cabins and everything in between, with day rates, too…It’s kind of surprising. When you top the road, you can see the Meskwaki Casino. Three miles away is Tama/Toledo. Ten minutes away is Marshalltown. You have this hidden little gem in the middle of central Iowa.”

Curtis said her future goal is to offer the artisan markets for week-long durations.

“We have about 60 acres of lush, green grass and I would eventually love to fill up the entire space,” she said.

Pilgrim Heights Camp and Retreat Center is located at 3005 E. Avenue Montour. To learn more, visit: www.pilgrimheights.org. It may be reached at: 641-492-6165 and office@pilgrimheights.org.