Pella Dutch: Portrait of a Language in an Iowa Community

The book delves into the cultural and linguistic heritage of Pella, Iowa, founded by Dutch religious separatists in 1847. Philip Webber combines sociolinguistic research and regional history, drawing from over 150 interviews with speakers of Pella Dutch. He explores how Dutch influences the local English, documenting vocabulary, humor, and conversational styles. The expanded edition includes new photographs and updates on recent research, celebrating Pella's enduring traditions, including its festivals and unique local customs.