 The church of Iecava dates from the 17th Century but was damaged in various wars and incidents from the Battle at Gross-Eckau 7 July 1812 to the Second World War and a 1972 fire.In addition to farming, the town supports manufacturing enterprises including vegetable oil and white spirits.Prominent Latvians born in Iecava include Friedrich Wilhelm Matisohn (1871-1913) and Arvīds Pelše (1899-1983).