Wyatt Earp Experience

Gropen worked with the Pella Historical Museum and an exhibit designer to transform Wyatt Earp’s childhood home into an interactive, immersive museum exhibit. The project involved designing and fabricating a range of experiential elements that interpret Earp’s early life while engaging visitors in a hands-on experience.

Custom wall coverings, artifact mounts, multimedia components, and engineered furniture pieces were integrated seamlessly throughout the home. One playful feature simulated a rocking chair “breaking through” the walls, demonstrating Gropen’s ability to combine storytelling with innovative fabrication. The team also guided the client on color management, file setup, and print specifications to ensure accurate production and smooth installation from Virginia to Iowa, maintaining fidelity to the design vision.

This project shows how Gropen brings history to life, combining storytelling, interactive elements, and inventive fabrication to engage visitors in a memorable, hands-on experience.