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Wayland, Iowa

Wayland is a village in Jefferson Township, Henry County, Iowa, United States. The population was 964 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Wayland was originally known as Crooked Creek. Crooked Creek became a voting precinct on October 5, 1840. The first burial is given to John Bullock, in 1838. He came as a surveyor to this region in 1837. The need to establish a post office followed. Rufus M. Pickell, one of the local leaders, was appointed on February 3, 1843, postmaster for the land east of the Skunk River and south of Crooked Creek. Pickell was also a blacksmith by trade. Establishing a church followed, so the little log cabin Methodist Church was built in 1844. From 1851 to 1880, the town was known as Marshall. Christian Roth Sr. erected a brewery on his homestead in 1856, which was completed at a cost of over $4,000. Until its closing by laws passed in 1884, it had done a prosperous business and had a capacity of 10 barrels a day. Confusion over the name Marshall, Henry County and Marshalltown, Iowa, especially with mail getting mixed, required a change in 1879, with the smaller town relinquishing its name and taking up a new one in 1880. In the 1879 Henry County History book the following names can be found in Jefferson Township: Burrows, Clifton, Cook, Davies, Everts, Farmer, Hull, Jessup, Johnson, Manning, Mathews, Moore, Noble, Ressel, Sayles, Shively, Turney, Walker, Wallbank, Wiggins, and Williams.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.01 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 966 people, 396 households, and 268 families residing in the village. The population density was 956.4 PD/sqmi. There were 417 housing units at an average density of 412.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.5% White, 1.1% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 396 households, of which 26.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.0% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.3% were non-families. 29.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.85.

The median age in the village was 47.1 years. 21.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.3% were from 25 to 44; 26.6% were from 45 to 64; and 26.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the village was 47.9% male and 52.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 945 people, 373 households, and 264 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,097.0 PD/sqmi. There were 386 housing units at an average density of 448.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.31% White, 0.74% Native American, 0.74% Asian, 0.11% from other races, and 0.11% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.11% of the population.

There were 373 households, out of which 29.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.1% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.0% were non-families. 25.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.9% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 19.5% from 45 to 64, and 26.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 74.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,667, and the median income for a family was $40,909. Males had a median income of $30,081 versus $19,688 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,717. About 4.3% of families and 5.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.1% of those under age 18 and 6.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
WACO Community School District operates local public schools.

WACO High School
Originally started in 1962 in Olds, the high school moved to Wayland in 1989. WACO is a consolidation and acronym of the communities Wayland, Ainsworth, Crawfordsville and Olds. The Ainsworth community is no longer a part of the WACO school district. WACO's mascot is the Warrior (Spartan/Trojan) and their colors are powder blue and white. The elementary school is located in Crawfordsville. Prior to WACO, the Wayland High School stood where the current Bomber Field is located, behind the city's fire department. Their mascot was originally the Dutchman and their colors were orange and navy blue. In the late 1940s, their mascot was the Bombers (B-25) and the school changed their colors to purple and white. They fielded their first football team in 1953.

title: Wayland, Iowa


text:
Westwood, Iowa

Westwood is a city in Henry County, Iowa, United States. The population was 101 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.15 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 112 people, 47 households, and 38 families living in the city. The population density was 746.7 PD/sqmi. There were 47 housing units at an average density of 313.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 47 households, of which 23.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 78.7% were married couples living together, 2.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.1% were non-families. 14.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.66.

The median age in the city was 56 years. 19.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 1.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 11.7% were from 25 to 44; 41.9% were from 45 to 64; and 25% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.3% male and 52.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 127 people, 46 households, and 43 families living in the city. The population density was 835.1 PD/sqmi. There were 47 housing units at an average density of 309.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.06% White, 0.79% African American, and 3.15% from two or more races.

There were 46 households, out of which 34.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 93.5% were married couples living together, and 6.5% were non-families. 6.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.76 and the average family size was 2.86.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.6% under the age of 18, 3.9% from 18 to 24, 13.4% from 25 to 44, 46.5% from 45 to 64, and 12.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $89,522, and the median income for a family was $90,571. Males had a median income of $63,438 versus $28,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $33,677. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
The Mount Pleasant Community School District operates local area public schools. Mount Pleasant Community High School is the designated comprehensive high school.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Westwood, Iowa


text:
Winfield, Iowa

Winfield is a city in Henry County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,033 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Winfield was laid out in 1852. It experienced a growth with the arrival of the Burlington and Northwestern Railway in late 1876, connecting the town with Burlington. The line was extended along the east side of town and reached Washington at the start of 1880, and in 1881, the Burlington and Western Railway was incorporated to build a line from Winfield to Oskaloosa. The new line branched from the Burlington and Northwestern just north of town reached Coppock the spring of 1882 and Oskaloosa in late 1883. These were 3 ft gauge railways.

In 1882, the Chicago, Burlington and Pacific constructed a rail line west from a railroad ferry crossing of the Mississippi River at Oakville, Iowa to Oskaloosa. This line passed Winfield along the south border of Winfield, and it largely paralleled the Burlington and Western to Oskaloosa, Iowa. The line was sold to the Central Iowa Railway as soon as it was built, and that line became the Iowa Central Railway a few years later.

Winfield was the hometown of the sports reporter Bill Bryson Sr.

Geography
Winfield is located in northeast Henry County just north of Iowa Highway 78. The East fork of Crooked Creek flows past just east of the city. Mount Pleasant is approximately 12 miles to the southwest.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.05 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,134 people, 437 households, and 302 families living in the city. The population density was 1080.0 PD/sqmi. There were 482 housing units at an average density of 459.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.8% White, 1.1% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 437 households, of which 35.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 14.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.9% were non-families. 27.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 3.02.

The median age in the city was 39.4 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.4% were from 25 to 44; 24.2% were from 45 to 64; and 17.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,131 people, 437 households, and 280 families living in the city. The population density was 1,089.7 PD/sqmi. There were 471 housing units at an average density of 453.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.97% White, 0.35% African American, 0.35% Asian, 0.80% from other races, and 0.53% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.50% of the population.

There were 437 households, out of which 35.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 8.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 32.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.18.

29.8% were under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 17.8% from 45 to 64, and 19.8% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,500, and the median income for a family was $44,500. Males had a median income of $32,125 versus $23,393 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,949. About 11.2% of families and 12.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.0% of those under age 18 and 11.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Winfield is home to the Winfield-Mt. Union Community School District. WMU is classified as a 1A school. Their football team has been 8-player since 2015. Their mascot is the Wolves, and is a member of the Southeast Iowa Superconference (SEISC) North Division.

Notable people

 * Harry Edward Stinson, sculptor.
 * Bill Bryson, Sr., sportswriter

title: Winfield, Iowa


text:
Chester, Iowa

Chester is a city in Howard County, Iowa, United States. The population was 139 in the 2020 census, a decrease of 7.9% from the 151 population in the 2000 census. Chester is located close to the state line from Minnesota.

History
Chester was laid out in 1858.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.34 sqmi, all of it land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 127 people, 64 households, and 36 families residing in the city. The population density was 94.8 PD/sqmi. There were 77 housing units at an average density of 57.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.2% White and 0.8% Native American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population.

There were 64 households, of which 17.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.2% were married couples living together, 4.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 9.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.8% were non-families. 40.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.98 and the average family size was 2.58.

The median age in the city was 48.8 years. 17.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.5% were from 25 to 44; 27.5% were from 45 to 64; and 29.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 55.1% male and 44.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 151 people, 71 households, and 47 families residing in the city. The population density was 113.2 PD/sqmi. There were 82 housing units at an average density of 61.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.34% White, 0.66% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.32% of the population.

There were 71 households, out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.3% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.8% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.64.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.2% under the age of 18, 5.3% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 28.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 71.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $21,875, and the median income for a family was $40,625. Males had a median income of $28,438 versus $21,667 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,240. There were 4.7% of families and 8.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including 22.2% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Howard–Winneshiek Community School District operates public schools. The district was formed from the merger of the Cresco, Lime Springs/Chester, Elma, and Ridgeway school districts, opening on July 1, 1960.

In 2015 the district board voted to close the Lime Springs–Chester Elementary School on a 4–1 basis.

title: Chester, Iowa


text:
Cresco, Iowa

Cresco is a city in Howard County, Iowa, United States. The population was 3,888 in the 2020 census, a decline from 3,905 in 2000 census. It is the county seat of Howard County.

History
Cresco was platted in 1866 at the time the railroad was expanding into the area. Cresco is a Latin phrase meaning "I grow". Cresco was incorporated on June 6, 1868.

On October 20, 1980, The David Letterman Show was broadcast from Cresco, the winner in a competition to host the show.

Geography
Cresco's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 43.374491, −92.115121.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.35 sqmi, all of it land.

Climate
Cresco experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb) with long, cold, snowy winters and very warm, humid summers.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,868 people, 1,660 households, and 962 families residing in the city. The population density was 1154.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,821 housing units at an average density of 543.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.3% White, 0.4% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.6% of the population.

There were 1,660 households, of which 29.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.1% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.0% were non-families. 36.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.95.

The median age in the city was 39.8 years. 25.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.2% were from 25 to 44; 23.6% were from 45 to 64; and 19.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,905 people, 1,652 households, and 1,004 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,184.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,791 housing units at an average density of 543.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.77% White, 0.23% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.15% Asian, 0.03% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.72% of the population.

There were 1,652 households, out of which 30.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.0% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.2% were non-families. 35.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.27 and the average family size was 2.95.

Age spread: 25.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 18.5% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,236, and the median income for a family was $43,682. Males had a median income of $30,088 versus $21,444 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,190. About 2.1% of families and 6.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.2% of those under age 18 and 5.9% of those age 65 or over.

Museums and other points of interest
The Mighty Howard County Fair takes place in June each year. Originally established in 1868, the inaugural Howard County Fair took place in the Howard County Court House Square. The arts and crafts, as well as produce exhibits, were housed on the top floor of the Court House, while larger exhibits were situated on the lawn surrounding the Court House.

Cresco Community Theatre is a non-profit organization open to anyone with an idea or the desire to contribute. The decision of which shows to be produced on the Cresco stage are reached by the contributing members, and range from famously named productions to the locally written plays.

Cresco is home to the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame of Iowa that had its first inductee banquet in 1970. there are 97 members who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of amateur wrestling.

Although Cresco is no longer on a railroad line, it is home to a restored Milwaukee Road FP7 diesel engine which is known as the Heritage Train and displayed in Beadle Park at the center of the city on Highway 9. Cresco is also headquarters for Featherlite Trailers.

The Cresco post office contains a mural, Iowa Farming, painted in 1937 by Richard Haines. Murals were produced from 1934 to 1943 in the United States through the Section of Painting and Sculpture, later called the Section of Fine Arts, of the Treasury Department.

Media
The city newspaper is the weekly Cresco Times Plain Dealer, published on Wednesdays & “The Cresco Shopper” published on Tuesdays.

KCZQ 102.3 FM is a licensed radio station based in Cresco, Iowa, known as "Super C". The station's studios, located near Elm Street, serve as its central operational hub. KCZQ has been owned by Mega Media LTD since it began broadcasting in 1991.

Education
Notre Dame Catholic School in Cresco, and Trinity Catholic school in Protivin, offer private education to elementary school students. There was previously a Notre Dame High School in Cresco. Notre Dame High School graduated its final class in 1989.

Governance and Expansion (1871–1880)
The school board's earliest documented minutes can be traced back to December 1871. Among the initial members of the board were Augustus Beadle, Edward Gillette, W. R. Mead, S. A. Stone, and W. H. Patterson. It was during this period that bonds were issued and subsequently sold for cash, providing the necessary financial resources to expand the school building with the addition of the west wing.

The next year brought about changes in both the composition and governance of the board. In January 1872, the board welcomed new members D. W. Owe and Charles I. White, who joined the ranks alongside Beadle, Stone, Patterson, Gillette, and Mead. A series of appointments took place in March of that same year, with Beadle assuming the role of president, John E. Peck appointed as treasurer, and White taking on the position of secretary.

During the course of 1872, the board undertook initiatives to further enhance the educational facilities. An allocation of $400 was approved for the acquisition of four adjacent lots to the existing schoolhouse, aiming to provide ample space for future development. Additionally, a tax levy of 10 mills on the dollar was introduced to contribute to the school house fund.

Growth and Expansion (1878–1896)
In 1878, an east wing was added to the building. The project was completed by 1880, with a total estimated cost of $13,000. It was during this time that the inaugural commencement ceremony of Cresco High School took place on June 18, 1880, in Cresco's Lyric Hall. The principal, L. T. Weld, delivered an address to the graduating class of six students. Although historical records from this period are somewhat limited, it is known that the high school offered a three-year course of study at the time. This curriculum was later expanded to a four-year program in 1901.

The physical infrastructure of Cresco's schools continued to evolve to meet the needs of its expanding student population. In 1893, a grade school building was erected on the central campus. This structure experienced a devastating fire in 1917.

In response to the growing demands of Cresco's educational landscape, the South Ward grade school was constructed in 1896. This facility underwent a comprehensive renovation in 1953.

Physical Growth and Development (1905–1913)
In order to cater to the ever-changing educational requirements of Cresco, a new high school building was erected in 1905. This project received the approval of the citizens in the independent school district, with a budget not exceeding $25,000, during the month of March in that same year. The construction bids were awarded in May, and by December, classes were already being held in the newly completed facilities.

The structure, 100 feet by 80 feet in size, was built using pressed brick and Postville stone. It reached a height of 84 feet from the grade line to the top of its dome. The cornice and bell tower were made of galvanized iron. Although referred to as a high school, the building accommodated students from grades 3 to 12.

Inside the 1905 building, the first floor consisted of the superintendent's office and five grade rooms. On the second floor, there was the seventh-grade room, six high school classrooms, four recitation rooms, an assembly room, and a laboratory. The basement housed the manual training department and the furnace room.

The building used a steam heating system and an advanced ventilation system. The Howard County Times in 1910 described it: "a series of air ducts lead to the cupola where a number of radiators form an upward current that completely changes the air of all rooms in approximately three minutes. Fresh air from the outside is first warmed over radiators and then conducted to all the rooms, after which it passes out through the ducts leading to the cupola."

Dora Perry, a student and later a teacher in Cresco, provided a detailed description of the new building in the 1906 "Old Rose and Black" yearbook. She wrote,"'The new high school building that was erected by the citizens of Cresco in 1905 does honor to the city. It is approached by a sidewalk from East Peck Street to the south or main entrance. Observing its overall structure, one can see that it is built of pressed brick, standing on a foundation of Bedford sandstone. Rising above the spacious roof is the dome and flagstaff, where the Star Spangled Banner often waves over the heads of the many school children. Engraved on the southern side, above the main entrance, is the date 1905. The building can be accessed through three entrances: the main entrance to the south, and the east and west entrances. Let us enter the building and take a quick glance at the interior. The heating and ventilation systems are well-designed, with radiators placed throughout the building. Down in the basement, we find the manual training room. The seventh grade expects to take up this branch of school work in the near future. Across the hall from the manual training department is the furnace room. As we admire the impressive machinery of the heating apparatus, we can't help but marvel at the ingenuity of the human mind to invent such intricate mechanisms for the comfort of others. Now, entering the vestibule, we encounter the stairway that leads to the first floor. While standing there, the following words come to mind: 'Life is what you make it, the world is as you take it.'  To the right of the stairway is the superintendent's office, divided into a public and private office by an oak partition. Its ambiance clearly indicates that both pleasant and unpleasant business is conducted there. On the first floor, there are five grade rooms. The third grade is furnished with large double seats that remind us of the time when we were embarking on our first battles of life. Yet, this room does not exude laziness but rather reflects the hard work accomplished by its occupants. Next to the third grade, across the corridor, is the fourth grade. It is similar to the previous room but displays a higher level of intellectual development, evident in the ornamental details on the walls. Moving west, we find the fifth grade. This cheerful room provides an enjoyable learning environment for the children. Then we come across the sixth grade, where eager faces are ready to tackle their daily tasks. Across the south corridor is the eighth grade. Here, we witness a noticeable development of mental prowess. On the wall, there is a bust of Lincoln, presented to the grade on February 22nd. This statue reminds us of the lines penned by Longfellow: 'Lives of great men all remind us, we can make our lives sublime.' Two stairways lead to the second story, and the first room we encounter is the seventh grade. The interior of this room showcases the students' artwork, with their talent displayed on the walls. Among these works, a picture of Robert Burns holds a prominent place. '"In the subsequent years, Cresco underwent additional construction projects that further transformed its educational institutions. In 1913, a new grade school building was erected on the west side of the central campus, with an estimated cost of $13,000. This additional structure expanded the educational infrastructure, accommodating the growing number of students at the grade school level.

In 1919, Cresco opened the east high school building and the West Ward school building. To finance these projects, bonds totaling $56,000 were issued.

Modernization (1927–1951)
Cresco Junior College, founded on September 6, 1927, was located in a renovated house located opposite the high school buildings. In its first year, Cresco Junior College enrolled 19 students, and 23 students the following year. The college faced a setback due to small enrollment and ultimately had to cease operations after just two years.

In 1935, a new corridor was constructed, linking the 1905 building with the 1919 building. That same year, plans began for the construction of a gymnasium. It was completed in 1938. As part of this expansion, the old gymnasium within the 1919 building was completely reconfigured into a small performance space.

Further expansions and additions were made in 1951 with a new garage and bus barn, and a band room for the music program.

Consolidation and Expansion (1960–1983)
The Howard-Winneshiek Community School District was established on July 1, 1960, through the consolidation of public schools. This brought together the public schools of Chester, Cresco, Elma, Lime Springs, and Ridgeway, necessitating the expansion of educational infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population.

In December 1965, a $1,500,000 bond proposal was approved by voters. The primary objective of this proposal was to secure funding for the construction of new elementary buildings in Lime Springs and Ridgeway, as well as a high school in Cresco. Construction of the new high school in Cresco began in 1967, and Crestwood High School opened in 1968. During the transition to the new high school, the original school buildings in the Central Complex continued to be used for elementary and junior high courses. In 1983, these buildings underwent extensive renovations.

A New Century (1991–Present)
In July 1991, the community members of the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District approved a bond issue of $5.975 million. The purpose of this funding was to construct a new K-8 building situated north of Crestwood High School. The patrons also granted approval for the allocation of $700,000 from an existing schoolhouse fund balance. This amount was specifically designated for the renovation of the outlying centers, ensuring that these educational spaces would receive the necessary upgrades and improvements.

The total cost of this initiative reached $7.2 million. A majority of 64.5% voted in favor of the new school.

Notable people

 * Norman Borlaug, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, attended Cresco High School
 * Charles Bowers, cartoonist and filmmaker
 * Ellen Church, the world's first female flight attendant
 * Edward Aloysius Fitzgerald, the fourth bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona
 * Wilma Anderson Gilman (1881–1971), concert pianist, music teacher, clubwoman
 * Maurice C. Gregory, United States Marine Corps brigadier general
 * Hal Holmes, United States congressman
 * Edward Howard, Roman Catholic archbishop of Portland, Oregon
 * Edouard Izac, Medal of Honor recipient
 * Frank J. Lowry, United States admiral
 * Oliver Munson, Wisconsin state senator
 * Harold Nichols, former Iowa State University wrestling coach, won six NCAA wrestling championships as coach
 * Robert E. Smylie, 24th governor of Idaho; raised in Cresco
 * Elmarie Wendel, American actress and singer
 * Ernest J. Windmiller, Minnesota state legislator and businessman

Attractions

 * Polygonal Barn, New Oregon Township, listed on the National Register of Historic Places

title: Cresco, Iowa


text:
Elma, Iowa

Elma is a city in Howard County, Iowa, United States. The population was 505 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Elma had its start in the late 1880s by the building of the railroad through that territory.

Geography
Elma is located at 43.24565°N, -92.4386°W (43.245649, -92.438598).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.29 sqmi, all of it land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 546 people, 240 households, and 142 families residing in the city. The population density was 423.3 PD/sqmi. There were 272 housing units at an average density of 210.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.3% White, 1.3% African American, 0.2% Pacific Islander, and 2.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.5% of the population.

There were 240 households, of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.6% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.8% were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.70.

The median age in the city was 51.3 years. 19.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.5% were from 25 to 44; 29.7% were from 45 to 64; and 30.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.6% male and 52.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 598 people, 242 households, and 150 families residing in the city. The population density was 464.5 PD/sqmi. There were 264 housing units at an average density of 205.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.33% White, 0.17% African American, 0.17% Native American, and 0.33% from two or more races.

There were 242 households, out of which 24.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.7% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.0% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.88.

20.6% were under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 21.4% from 25 to 44, 22.9% from 45 to 64, and 27.9% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,417, and the median income for a family was $40,417. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $19,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,263. About 10.8% of families and 17.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.3% of those under age 18 and 26.2% of those age 65 or over.

Schools
Howard–Winneshiek Community School District operates public schools. The district was formed from the merger of the Cresco, Lime Springs/Chester, Elma, and Ridgeway school districts, opening on July 1, 1960.

When Elma had its own K–12 school district, the Elma Eagles Basketball Team made state basketball twice in the 1930s, the first in 1932 and the second in 1937.

Jeff Skoda won state championship in wrestling in 1972 in the 112 weight class at Crestwood after the 1960 consolidation.

In 2013 the district board voted to close Elma Elementary School.

title: Elma, Iowa


text:
Lime Springs, Iowa

Lime Springs is a city in Howard County, Iowa, United States. The population was 473 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
The Old Town of Lime Springs was platted in 1857. After the railroad was built into the area, the town relocated nearby to its tracks. The town, then called Lime Springs Station, was platted again in 1867.

Geography
Lime Springs is located at 43.44944°N, -92.28111°W (43.449578, -92.281226).

The town center originally existed a little farther to the north around the Lidtke Mill on the Upper Iowa River, but moved south when the railroad came to town.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.02 sqmi, all of it land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 505 people, 238 households, and 143 families residing in the city. The population density was 495.1 PD/sqmi. There were 253 housing units at an average density of 248.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.4% White, 0.2% Native American, and 0.4% Asian. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.4% of the population.

There were 238 households, of which 26.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.5% were married couples living together, 9.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.9% were non-families. 35.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.77.

The median age in the city was 45.4 years. 23.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.2% were from 25 to 44; 27.9% were from 45 to 64; and 22.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.5% male and 50.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 496 people, 220 households, and 144 families residing in the city. The population density was 487.8 PD/sqmi. There were 243 housing units at an average density of 239.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.39% White, 0.40% Native American, 0.60% Asian, and 0.60% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.01% of the population.

There were 220 households, out of which 29.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.6% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.1% were non-families. 31.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.81.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.2% under the age of 18, 5.6% from 18 to 24, 26.4% from 25 to 44, 17.3% from 45 to 64, and 25.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,750, and the median income for a family was $39,063. Males had a median income of $30,000 versus $21,776 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,706. About 5.2% of families and 5.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.5% of those under age 18 and 6.8% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Sweet Corn Days is the festival of the year in Lime Springs, held on the second Sunday in August. Festivities start Thursday and go thru Sunday. Friday and Saturday are filled with tractor pulls, softball games, and activities for the whole family. And there is much for kids to do at Brown Park. Friday has music and Saturday night features live music and a street dance. Beer tent open Thursday night thru Saturday night. Sunday features free sweet corn and a parade. Most windows around town are decorated with "Rocky the Raccoon" the Sweet Corn Days mascot.

The historic Lidtke Mill converted into a museum is a popular attraction.

Education
Howard–Winneshiek Community School District operates public schools. The district was formed from the merger of the Cresco, Lime Springs/Chester, Elma, and Ridgeway school districts, opening on July 1, 1960.

In 2015 the district board voted to close the Lime Springs-Chester Elementary School on a 4–1 basis.

title: Lime Springs, Iowa


text:
Bode, Iowa

Bode is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 302 at the 2020 census.

History
Bode got its start in the year 1881, following construction of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railway through that territory.

Geography
Bode is located at 42.86715°N, -94.28791°W (42.867146, -94.287910).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.41 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 302 people, 130 households, and 83 families living in the city. The population density was 736.6 PD/sqmi. There were 165 housing units at an average density of 402.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 90.4% White, 1.3% Native American, 7.3% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.6% of the population.

There were 130 households, of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.3% were married couples living together, 14.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.2% were non-families. 31.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.84.

The median age in the city was 41.3 years. 25.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.2% were from 25 to 44; 25.1% were from 45 to 64; and 20.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.0% male and 50.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 327 people, 148 households, and 95 families living in the city. The population density was 797.6 PD/sqmi. There were 168 housing units at an average density of 409.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.11% White, 1.53% Asian, 2.75% Pacific Islander, and 0.61% from two or more races.

There were 148 households, out of which 23.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.8% were non-families. 31.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.6% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 19.3% from 25 to 44, 21.1% from 45 to 64, and 30.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,917, and the median income for a family was $39,375. Males had a median income of $29,375 versus $20,625 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,014. About 2.1% of families and 5.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.1% of those under age 18 and 2.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is within the Twin Rivers Community School District. In July 2011 the district began a whole grade sharing agreement with the Humboldt Community School District.

The district previously had a grade sharing agreement with the Gilmore City–Bradgate Community School District. Under that agreement Bode was the home of Twin River Valley High School, nicknamed the 'Thunder', the High School for the Twin Rivers School District and the Gilmore City–Bradgate district. The athletic teams (football, volleyball, boys and girls basketball, wrestling, track, golf, baseball and softball) are usually in the lower classes for sports due to the school's small enrollment. TRV is currently in talks with the Humboldt or West Bend-Mallard High Schools for sharing of education and/or sports.

title: Bode, Iowa


text:
Bradgate, Iowa

Bradgate is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States, at the conjunction of Sections 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Avery Township, and rests near the banks of the West Fork of the Des Moines River. The population was 75 in the 2020 census, a decline from 101 in 2000.

On May 21, 2004, the town was almost completely destroyed by a tornado.

Last battle between two Iowa American Indian tribes
Nearby Avery's Hill was the site of a significant event in Iowa history. The last battle between two American Indian tribes in Iowa was fought on this hill in 1854 between the Sioux and the Winnebagos.

Some eighteen Sioux warriors under the leadership of Coustawa (Big Tree) surprised the tribe of Winnebago but were driven back after the death of Coustawa. One of the Sioux warriors was reported to be Inkpaduta, who later led a band of Sioux in the famed Spirit Lake Massacre. The Pocahontas County Historical Society has marked the battle spot on the former Clarence Stearns farm with a flag pole and plaque memorial.

A few area residents of Bradgate and surrounding community have acquired large collections of American Indian artifacts, including arrowheads, discovered during walks along the river and on Avery's Hill.

The early days and origin of name
The first settlement just east of present Bradgate (Section 8) was named Willow Glen with no record of why this name was chosen. However, when the town was platted, the name was changed to Bradgate. Several theories are given as to why this name was chosen but the one accepted by most is that Bradgate was named after Bradgate Park at Newtown Linford, six miles northwest of Leicester in Leicestershire County, England. Likewise, just as Leicestershire County is located just west of Rutland County in England, the town of Bradgate, Iowa, is similarly located just six miles to the northwest of the town of Rutland in Humboldt County, Iowa. There were at least seven English families who left England and moved directly to the Bradgate, Iowa, area.

Bradgate was platted by the Western Town Lot Company in 1881–1882 on the Toledo branch of the Chicago and North Western Railway in Avery Township of Humboldt County. The plat was filed for record on March 7, 1882. The post office was established April 7, 1882.

Cord N. King came to Avery Township in 1864 and purchased 247 acres. He farmed this land and operated a grocery store. Much of the land was donated to the railroad by Cord N. King. It was hoped that the terminal would be built at this spot, but after the entire valley of the Des Moines River flooded on July 7, 1881, it was decided to move the terminal to Eagle Grove.

John Wesley King built a house near the post office and became the town's first postmaster.

"The town that wouldn’t die"
In the summer of 1950, three people from Life Magazine spent a number of days in Bradgate taking numerous pictures and interviewing nearly everyone for a special profile on a small Iowa town. When the article came to be published, residents were anxious to read the story which profiled their farm community. But when the August 1950 issue appeared, all were disappointed. Bradgate was pictured as a dying town.

This has remained a sore spot in the years since and in 1976, the motto “The town that wouldn’t die” was chosen to commemorate the community's resolve to withstand the dire premonition and continue forward.

2004 Tornado
On May 21, 2004, a tornado rated F2 struck the town of Bradgate causing widespread damage. The National Weather Service reported that a tornado struck near Rolfe at 6:10 p.m. and hit Bradgate at 6:23 p.m. The tornado severely damaged 30 of the 42 homes in Bradgate. The only building in town that did not receive damage was the new fire station. Though fifteen people sustained minor injuries from flying debris, residents were grateful there were no fatalities.

The tornado that started near Rolfe continued on a 16-mile journey, damaging farm houses, trees, and power lines along the way. MidAmerican Energy power lines and poles, from Rutland north to the Bradgate blacktop, were toppled over the roadway. A storm damage survey team from the National Weather Service in Des Moines rated the tornado F2 in strength. A tornado rated F2 has estimated winds of 113-157 mph, based upon estimates in the Fujita Scale.

Geography
Bradgate's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 42.803434, -94.420405.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.35 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 86 people, 37 households, and 25 families residing in the city. The population density was 245.7 PD/sqmi. There were 40 housing units at an average density of 114.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.3% of the population.

There were 37 households, of which 27.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.4% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.4% were non-families. 27.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.76.

The median age in the city was 44.3 years. 22.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.5% were from 25 to 44; 29% were from 45 to 64; and 17.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 54.7% male and 45.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 101 people, 48 households, and 30 families residing in the town. The population density was 291.1 PD/sqmi. There were 54 housing units at an average density of 155.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 48 households, out of which 18.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.3% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.5% were non-families. 31.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.10 and the average family size was 2.63.

In the town the population was spread out, with 15.8% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 22.8% from 25 to 44, 33.7% from 45 to 64, and 18.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 117.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,000, and the median income for a family was $44,375. Males had a median income of $27,500 versus $15,625 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,407. There were 8.0% of families and 16.8% of the population living below the poverty line, including 27.8% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Avery's Hill
One of the local tourist spots is Avery's Hill, located to the west of town above the West Fork of the Des Moines River, and like the township, named after Oscar F. Avery, the area's first settler who came to farm. The hill is visited for its nature, wildlife, and mushroom hunts. Avery built his house in November 1859 and planted corn the following spring.

Avery's Hill is a wildlife refuge and a place where several generations of area youngsters have engaged in sledding or tobogganing down the large expansive hill.

During the 1920s, an effort was unsuccessfully made to make Avery's Hill into a park. In 1976, after private ownership of the land had changed hands, an effort was successfully made to prevent further tilling and destruction of the scenic area.

The hill was the site of a significant event in Iowa history. The last battle between two American Indian tribes in Iowa was fought on this hill in 1854 between the Sioux and the Winnebagos.

Bradgate State Fishing Access
The Bradgate State Fishing Access is one of over 140 state parks, forests, and wildlife refuges in Iowa. The Access is one of several fishing areas along the West Fork of the Des Moines River located on Bradgate's southern edge.

Three Rivers Bike Trail
The Three Rivers Bike Trail, constructed on an abandoned railroad grade, is a recreational bike trail system that passes through town. Completed in 1991, one of its features is its crossing over the West Fork of the Des Moines River on the town's west edge. The "Three Rivers" refers to both the East and West Forks of the Des Moines River and to the Boone River, all of which it spans.

The 35 mile route stretches from Rolfe in Pocahontas County to Eagle Grove in Wright County with access points in Bradgate, Rutland, Dakota City, and Thor. The trail has forested river lowlands on the western end, and small towns, numerous bridges, and open farmlands on the eastern end.

Education
Children from the town of Bradgate and surrounding community are enrolled in the Gilmore City–Bradgate Community School District.

Twin town
Bradgate is the twin town of Newtown Linford near Bradgate Park in Leicestershire, England.

title: Bradgate, Iowa


text:
Dakota City, Iowa

Dakota City is a city in and the county seat of Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 759 at the time of the 2020 census. Dakota City shares its western border with the much larger city of Humboldt. It is the least populous county seat in Iowa.

History
Dakota City was laid out in 1855 and was named after the Dakota people. A post office was established as Dakotah in 1856, and renamed Dakota City in 1924.

Geography
Dakota City's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 42.721944, -94.200317.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.78 sqmi, of which 0.74 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 843 people, 351 households, and 238 families residing in the city. The population density was 1139.2 PD/sqmi. There were 382 housing units at an average density of 516.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.0% White, 0.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 1.4% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.2% of the population.

There were 351 households, of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.4% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.2% were non-families. 25.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.89.

The median age in the city was 39.3 years. 23.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.3% were from 25 to 44; 27.7% were from 45 to 64; and 14.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.0% male and 49.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 911 people, 356 households, and 253 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,238.0 PD/sqmi. There were 379 housing units at an average density of 515.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.01% White, 0.11% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.44% from other races, and 0.33% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.43% of the population.

There were 356 households, out of which 38.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.3% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.9% were non-families. 25.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 28.0% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 31.0% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 11.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.1 males.

The median household income was $33,977 and the median family income was $39,306. Males had a median income of $30,250 versus $23,229 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,441. About 5.2% of families and 6.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.3% of those under age 18 and 7.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Humboldt Community School District operates public schools. The city is served by Mease Elementary (Dakota City), Taft Elementary School (Humboldt), Humboldt Middle School, and Humboldt High School.

Point of interest
The Three Rivers Bike Trail, built on an abandoned railroad grade, passes through town. One of its interesting features is a trestle just south of its highway 3 overpass where it crosses another abandoned railway — also converted to a trail. The "Three Rivers" refers to the East and West Forks of the Des Moines River and to the Boone River, all of which it spans.

Notable person

 * Harry Reasoner - CBS correspondent

title: Dakota City, Iowa


text:
Hardy, Iowa

Hardy is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 57 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Hardy got its start in the year 1881, following construction of the Cedar Rapids, Iowa Falls and Northwestern Railway through that territory.

Geography
Hardy is located at 42.81028°N, -94.05167°W (42.810207, -94.051713).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.44 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 47 people, 19 households, and 11 families living in the city. The population density was 106.8 PD/sqmi. There were 26 housing units at an average density of 59.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.6% White and 6.4% from two or more races.

There were 19 households, of which 26.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.4% were married couples living together, 5.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.1% were non-families. 36.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 3.36.

The median age in the city was 45.3 years. 34% of residents were under the age of 18; 2.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 12.8% were from 25 to 44; 36.1% were from 45 to 64; and 14.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.9% male and 51.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 57 people, 25 households, and 20 families living in the city. The population density was 128.9 PD/sqmi. There were 30 housing units at an average density of 67.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.49% White, and 3.51% from two or more races.

There were 25 households, out of which 36.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.0% were married couples living together, 16.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.0% were non-families. 16.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.35.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.1% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 35.1% from 25 to 44, 17.5% from 45 to 64, and 19.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,929, and the median income for a family was $26,250. Males had a median income of $28,750 versus $16,875 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,910. There were 5.6% of families and 15.4% of the population living below the poverty line, including 22.2% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
The Humboldt Community School District operates public schools. The city is served by Mease Elementary (Dakota City), Taft Elementary School (Humboldt), Humboldt Middle School, and Humboldt High School.

title: Hardy, Iowa


text:
Humboldt, Iowa

Humboldt is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 4,792 at the time of the 2020 census, gaining 102 people over the 2010 total.

History
Frank A. Gotch Park (just south of present-day Humboldt and Dakota City) was a location of prehistoric and some Dakota Indian villages near where the two forks of the Des Moines River meet. During westward expansion in the 1800s, this area is thought to be the location of a fort/trading post called Fort Confederation. According to Federal records in 1825, permission was granted to build the fort to trade with the Ihanktonwan Dakota (Yankton Sioux) Indians. Information about the exact details of the fort are unclear, such as if American or French Canadian or Metis traders built it, bringing up many questions about this fort.

The founder of modern Humboldt, Stephen Harris Taft, laid out the plans for Springvale, the original name of the town, in 1863. It was named Springvale because of the several natural springs found near the Des Moines River. Taft had very big plans for the community, and expected many intellectuals from the East to move to his new community.

Taft had five goals for his idyllic community.

 * The town shall be surrounded and full of trees and forests.
 * The town shall be free of the sale of intoxicants.
 * The town shall be founded upon a saw mill and grist mill on the Des Moines River
 * The town shall have the moral fortitude of a solid church and good schools, and that it shall become a town of thinkers and beauty.
 * The town shall grow with a college of university importance, and have a church that will not dissent into factions.

Taft undertook the great task of turning empty, blooming prairie into the community of his dreams. He brought out a group of settlers (including a doctor) in 1863, and they lived together in the few houses that had been built. The grist mill was built, known now as the Corydon Brown House. The first few years were spent laying out the town. Taft wanted very wide boulevards throughout the town, and the community is still known for its streets. Taft also edited the Humboldt County True Democrat through the offices of the Fort Dodge Sentinel in Fort Dodge.

Springvale was renamed Humboldt (after the German explorer and naturalist Alexander von Humboldt) in hope of a merger between Springvale and Dakota City (the county seat of Humboldt County), but no merger took place. This is the first of two major shortcomings that would stunt Humboldt's growth and keep it from reaching Taft's goals.

A meeting in 1866 occurred that formed the Springvale Collegiate Association, led by Taft. After the flood in 1867 that destroyed the town's dam, the issue became popular again in 1869. The association was renamed to Humboldt Collegiate Association in accordance with the town's name change. It was reported that "great enthusiasm" was the feeling in the room, however when the question was posed to the county's voters on October 12, 1869, the measure to appropriate swampland for a Northern Iowa College was defeated. Taft was not defeated, however, and looked East for funding. After almost missing a payment deadline that would've sunk the college for good, Taft broke ground on June 17, 1870. He ended his address by saying "Hundreds are here present today. Tens of thousands shall gather here a hundred years hence to commemorate the birth of the institution and rejoice in the blessings it shall have conferred."

Humboldt College opened its doors on September 13, 1872. The first three years were designed as preparatory work intended to supplement the pupils' public education that ended around eighth grade. The subsequent four years were college work. June 1879 brought the first graduation class of three families. They would be the only students to ever receive a degree from the institution. At this time, Taft and the college were in financial trouble. An endowment fund capable of supporting Taft's vision seemed impossible to create, and following turbulent financial times in the East, the college closed in 1916. The building was razed in 1926, following unsuccessful attempts to rent the structure. Without the college, Taft's dreams of Humboldt becoming an intellectual center of knowledge in the West could not be realized.

In July 1955, when contacts between Americans and Soviets were rare, Humboldt hosted a delegation of Soviet officials (and national and international reporters) for an overnight glimpse of rural American life.

On March 27, 1972, ABC-TV broadcast a half-hour documentary on Humboldt entitled "A Small Town in Iowa." The program was written and produced by Andy Rooney and narrated by Harry Reasoner, a Humboldt native. The show portrayed Humboldt as a kind of paradise that struggled to keep its most talented youth from leaving for larger cities, and asked, "what is it about paradise that's turning the bright kids off?" The answer, according to Reasoner and Rooney, was that "what seems to be missing is more a shortcoming of ours, than of the small town. It is that those of us with ego and ambition are not usually happy performing in front of an audience the size a small town provides."

The First National Bank of Humboldt and its shareholders were the primary victims of what the Des Moines Register described as “one of the most spectacular white-collar crimes in state history.” In 1982 Humboldt native Gary Vance Lewellyn, then a Des Moines stockbroker, attempted to pump up the value of the stock of a high-tech company by singlehandedly creating phony market demand for it. To carry out the scheme, he illegally obtained access to bonds of the First National Bank of Humboldt valued at $16.7 million, and secretly pledged the Bank's bonds as security for his personal orders of the company's stock through Wall Street investment firms. When Lewellyn missed margin calls on his stock purchases, the firms obtained the bonds. Suspicious federal regulators closed the Humboldt Bank when it could not account for its missing bonds (and considered, but rejected, the idea of liquidating it). Its accountholders were protected by federal insurance but the shares in the bank became worthless. For his crime, Lewellyn was sentenced to twenty years in prison, but served only five years. Lewellyn died in 2012.

Geography
Humboldt is located at 42.72361°N, -94.22139°W (42.723631, -94.221520). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.80 sqmi, of which 4.64 sqmi is land and 0.16 sqmi is water.

Humboldt County is located entirely within the Des Moines Lobe of the Western Corn Belt Plains ecoregion, as defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). One of the flattest regions in Iowa, the Des Moines Lobe ecoregion is a distinctive area naturally defined by Wisconsin glaciation but modified by humans for extensive agriculture. In general, the land is level to gently rolling with some areas of relief defined by glacial features like moraines, hummocky knobs, and kettles, and outwash deposits. The lobe does not have any loess deposits like the Loess Hills to the west.

The stream network is poorly developed and widely spaced, with major rivers carving valleys that are relatively deep and steep-sided. Almost all of the natural lakes of Iowa are found in the northern part of this region (the Iowa Great Lakes). Most of the region has been converted from wet prairie to agricultural use with substantial surface water drainage. Only a small fraction of the wetlands remain, and many natural lakes have been drained as a result of agricultural drainage projects via drainage tiles or ditches.

Climate
Humboldt, like almost all of Iowa, has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa). Humboldt experiences all four seasons characterized by cold winters, wet springs, hot summers, and relatively short autumns. Wide temperature ranges are common within this climate zone.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 4,690 people, 2,091 households, and 1,250 families residing in the city. The population density was 1010.8 PD/sqmi. There were 2,246 housing units at an average density of 484.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.9% White, 0.6% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 3.0% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.0% of the population.

There were 2,091 households, of which 24.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.2% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.2% were non-families. 35.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age in the city was 45.3 years. 22.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.9% were from 25 to 44; 26% were from 45 to 64; and 24.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.7% male and 52.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,452 people, 1,965 households, and 1,202 families residing in the city. The population density was 957.7 PD/sqmi. There were 2,090 housing units at an average density of 449.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.41% White, 0.20% African American, 0.04% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 0.65% from other races, and 0.45% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.50% of the population.

There were 1,965 households, out of which 24.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.3% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.8% were non-families. 35.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.84.

Age spread: 21.8% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 22.9% from 25 to 44, 22.0% from 45 to 64, and 26.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $39,338, and the median income for a family was $49,526. Males had a median income of $32,438 versus $22,586 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,656. About 4.4% of families and 7.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.0% of those under age 18 and 4.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Humboldt Community School District operates public schools. The city is served by Mease Elementary (Dakota City), Taft Elementary School, Humboldt Middle School, and Humboldt High School.

Notable people

 * G. Duncan Bauman (1912–2003) - Newspaper reporter, editor, publisher of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat, 1977-84
 * Jack Clancy - Football player for the Miami Dolphins
 * Christian Clemenson - Emmy Award-winning actor; recent roles include Thomas Burnett in United 93 and Jerry "Hands" Espenson in Boston Legal
 * Kevin Dresser - Head wrestling coach, formerly Virginia Tech but currently Iowa State University, and 1986 national wrestling champion (142 lbs.) at the University of Iowa
 * Theodore G. Garfield - Second-longest-serving justice of the Iowa Supreme Court, 1941–1969 (from 1961 to 1969 as Chief Justice)
 * Frank A. Gotch - world heavyweight wrestling champion from 1908 to 1915
 * Frank A. Gotch (MD) - American physician who derived the mathematical expressions Kt/V and standardized Kt/V used internationally to quantify and prescribe dialysis therapy for kidney failure
 * L. W. Housel - Former Connecticut State Legislator (1901–1902). Two-time Democratic candidate for governor of Iowa (1928 and 1932).
 * Byron McKeeby - American artist, educator and master printmaker
 * John H. Mitchell (1899–1992) - Iowa state representative and attorney general
 * Jon Porter - U.S. Representative from Nevada, January 3, 2003 – January 3, 2009
 * Harry Reasoner - CBS and ABC news correspondent and television host
 * Bruce Reimers - NFL offensive guard for Cincinnati and Tampa Bay
 * Dick Schultz - College sports coach, executive director of the United States Olympic Committee

title: Humboldt, Iowa


text:
Livermore, Iowa

Livermore is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 381 at the time of the 2020 census. Livermore is the hometown of former University of Iowa and NFL tight end Dallas Clark.

History
Livermore was founded in 1879. The community grew in importance as an agricultural center with grain elevators and feed mills and merchants serving the surrounding rich farmland. The community is located adjacent to the confluence of the East Fork Des Moines River and Lott's Creek. Early industries included a brick and tile factory and agricultural products processing. As north central Iowa's rural population dwindled, so has Livermore's population. Its remaining elementary school closed in 2005.

Geography
Livermore is located at 42.86694°N, -94.18417°W (42.866849, -94.184051) at the confluence of Lotts Creek with the East Fork Des Moines River.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.70 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Livermore has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa), including all four seasons characterized by harsh winters, and mild summers.

July is the hottest month of the year, with an average high of 84 °F and an average low of 62 °F. Temperatures above 100 °F are uncommon. January is the coldest month with an average high of 25 °F and an average low of 7 °F. The city's highest temperature was 104 °F, recorded in 1982. The lowest temperature recorded was -33 °F, in 1985.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 384 people, 164 households, and 106 families residing in the city. The population density was 548.6 PD/sqmi. There were 197 housing units at an average density of 281.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.9% White, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, 1.0% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.3% of the population.

There were 164 households, of which 28.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.4% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.83.

The median age in the city was 41 years. 24.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 27.1% were from 25 to 44; 28.7% were from 45 to 64; and 15.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.7% male and 50.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 431 people, 183 households, and 109 families residing in the city. The population density was 616.4 PD/sqmi. There were 204 housing units at an average density of 291.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.77% White and 0.23% Pacific Islander. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.46% of the population.

There were 183 households, out of which 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.9% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.9% were non-families. 35.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.9% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 25.5% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 18.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,328, and the median income for a family was $32,411. Males had a median income of $25,789 versus $19,583 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,714. About 10.6% of families and 12.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.2% of those under age 18 and 14.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is within the Twin Rivers Community School District.

Community

With a sizeable German Catholic population surrounding Livermore, the community's largest church is Sacred Heart Catholic, followed by Livermore United Methodist and Immanuel Lutheran. Bethel Presbyterian Church closed in the late 1970s and the building is now home to the Livermore Community Club and museum. Other community attractions include Old Settlers' Park, which dates to 1890, when early Livermore families each contributed a log to build a cabin in the thickly wooded park located at the west entrance to the community. The town also features a library, community swimming pool and a high school baseball/softball complex. Just north of Livermore is the picturesque Spring Valley Golf Club, named Iowa's best nine-hole course, before it was expanded to 18 holes. Otto Field American Legion Post 415 is located in Livermore and the town's Friends & Neighbors Club is an active seniors organization with its own building. Livermore Daze is an annual celebration that brings together antique car enthusiasts, parade participants and hundreds of residents and visitors to the weekend event.

Notable person

 * Dallas Clark (1979– ) football player for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and Indianapolis Colts of the NFL, 2003–2011.

title: Livermore, Iowa


text:
Ottosen, Iowa

Ottosen is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 40 in the 2020 census, a decline from 61 in 2000.

History
Much of the town burned in a fire in the mid 20th century and was never rebuilt.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.57 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 55 people, 23 households, and 17 families living in the city. The population density was 96.5 PD/sqmi. There were 26 housing units at an average density of 45.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 90.9% White and 9.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.6% of the population.

There were 23 households, of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.2% were married couples living together, 4.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.1% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.65.

The median age in the city was 44.8 years. 29.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 1.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.1% were from 25 to 44; 30.9% were from 45 to 64; and 18.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.3% male and 52.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 61 people, 24 households, and 19 families living in the city. The population density was 107.1 PD/sqmi. There were 31 housing units at an average density of 54.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 24 households, out of which 41.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.3% were married couples living together, 12.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.8% were non-families. 16.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 2.89.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.1% under the age of 18, 3.3% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 27.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 117.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $34,000, and the median income for a family was $34,000. Males had a median income of $25,714 versus $25,000 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,525. There were no families and 3.8% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 33.3% of those over 64.

Education
It is within the Twin Rivers Community School District.

title: Ottosen, Iowa


text:
Pioneer, Iowa

Pioneer is an unincorporated community in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 4 at the time of the 2020 census, and elected to unincorporate as a municipality in 2020.

Geography
Pioneer is located at 42.65444°N, -94.39083°W (42.654422, -94.390775).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.06 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 23 people, 8 households, and 6 families living in the city. The population density was 383.3 PD/sqmi. There were 9 housing units at an average density of 150.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.7% White and 4.3% African American.

There were 8 households, of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.5% were married couples living together, 12.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 25.0% were non-families. 12.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.88 and the average family size was 3.33.

The median age in the city was 38.5 years. 26.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.1% were from 25 to 44; 21.6% were from 45 to 64; and 17.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 56.5% male and 43.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 21 people, 10 households, and 6 families living in the city. The population density was 333.1 PD/sqmi. There were 11 housing units at an average density of 174.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 10 households, out of which 20.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, and 40.0% were non-families. 30.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.10 and the average family size was 2.67.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.0% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 19.0% from 25 to 44, 33.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52 years. For every 100 females, there were 162.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 112.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $19,375, and the median income for a family was $36,875. Males had a median income of $22,083 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $10,079. There are 28.6% of families living below the poverty line and 50.0% of the population, including 100.0% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Government
At the time of discontinuance, Pioneer had a mayor and three city council members, which met monthly. The only city employee was the part-time city clerk. Though it has lowered its tax rate, city coffers turned over to the county at discontinuance were at "about $150,000".

Major highways
Pioneer is located just off Humboldt County Route C49, approximately 8.5 mi west of US Route 169.

Utilities
Water service is provided by a county-owned well and water distribution system. As of 2020, the system had three residential customers and the Pro Cooperative grain elevator.

Education
It is within the Gilmore City–Bradgate Community School District.

Notable person

 * Merle J. Isaac (1898–1996), arranger and composer

title: Pioneer, Iowa


text:
Renwick, Iowa

Renwick is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 234 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Renwick was platted in 1882.

Geography
Renwick is located at 42.82833°N, -93.97833°W (42.828341, -93.978284).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.00 sqmi, all land.

Renwick's population density is estimated at 261 people per square mile, which is considered very low for urban areas.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 242 people, 119 households, and 70 families residing in the city. The population density was 242.0 PD/sqmi. There were 141 housing units at an average density of 141.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.9% White, 0.4% African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.2% of the population.

There were 119 households, of which 23.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.6% were married couples living together, 3.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.2% were non-families. 37.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.03 and the average family size was 2.63.

The median age in the city was 46.1 years. 19.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.5% were from 25 to 44; 31.9% were from 45 to 64; and 21.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.4% male and 49.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 306 people, 135 households, and 76 families residing in the city. The population density was 308.4 PD/sqmi. There were 150 housing units at an average density of 151.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.35% White, 0.33% Asian, and 0.33% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.33% of the population.

There were 135 households, out of which 29.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 2.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 43.0% were non-families. 37.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.27 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.9% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 19.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,333, and the median income for a family was $38,750. Males had a median income of $27,344 versus $18,333 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,609. About 5.8% of families and 7.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.3% of those under the age of eighteen and 10.2% of those 65 or over.

Education
The Humboldt Community School District operates public schools. The city is served by Mease Elementary (Dakota City), Taft Elementary School (Humboldt), Humboldt Middle School, and Humboldt High School.

Previously Renwick was served by the Boone Valley Community School District, which operated the Boone Valley School, built in 1915, in Renwick. On January 1, 1988, the Boone Valley district dissolved, with a portion absorbed by other school districts. That year the Boone Valley School closed, and in 1989 alumnus Frank Siemens and his family bought it for $5,000. The business Boone Valley Implement is in the former school. By 2015 Siemens spent $500,000 to refurbish the building. In 2015 Jason Clayworth and Charles Litchfield of the Des Moines Register stated "A large portion of the older section of the school remains relatively unused."

Renwick Public Library has in its collection 5,351 books, 131 audio materials, 532 video materials, and 23 serial subscriptions.

Arts and culture
Donkey Daze is Renwick's town festival held every year during the first Saturday in June and features a six court volleyball tournament. As many as 25 teams from around North Central Iowa have participated in past years.
 * Annual festivals

Transportation
Renwick has a privately owned airport licensed in 1991 called the Flying S Ranch Airport. The airport is located approximately 2 mi from the center of town.

title: Renwick, Iowa


text:
Rutland, Iowa

Rutland is a city in Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 113 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Rutland was platted in 1869. It was named after Rutland, Vermont.

Rutland was formerly serviced by Iowa Highway 367, which was decommissioned in 1980.

Geography
Rutland is located at 42.75889°N, -94.29278°W (42.758785, -94.292847) on the West Fork Des Moines River.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.90 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 126 people, 63 households, and 37 families residing in the city. The population density was 140.0 PD/sqmi. There were 66 housing units at an average density of 73.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.2% White and 0.8% from two or more races.

There were 63 households, of which 15.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.6% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.3% were non-families. 28.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.00 and the average family size was 2.43.

The median age in the city was 49 years. 14.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 10.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.6% were from 25 to 44; 34.9% were from 45 to 64; and 19.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.0% male and 50.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 145 people, 64 households, and 40 families residing in the city. The population density was 161.3 PD/sqmi. There were 69 housing units at an average density of 76.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.24% White, 0.69% Native American, and 2.07% from two or more races.

There were 64 households, out of which 29.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.1% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.5% were non-families. 34.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.27 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.8% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 23.4% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 116.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,556, and the median income for a family was $32,321. Males had a median income of $24,375 versus $15,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,432. There were none of the families and 2.7% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 9.1% of those over 64.

Education
The Humboldt Community School District operates public schools. The city is served by Mease Elementary (Dakota City), Taft Elementary School (Humboldt), Humboldt Middle School, and Humboldt High School.

Notable person

 * Doreen Wilber, archery gold medalist at the 1972 Summer Olympics.

title: Rutland, Iowa


text:
Thor, Iowa

Thor is a town in Norway Township, Humboldt County, Iowa, United States. The population was 181 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
The town of Thor is a farming community which was originally built up chiefly by Scandinavian immigrants. Settlement of the township started in 1869 with the filing of a claim by Ole Willicksen, who was a native of Stavanger, Norway. In 1881, the town of Thor was laid out by the Western Town Lot Company. Thor was platted in 1882. It was named after the mythical deity Thor in Old Norse mythology.

Thor was formerly serviced by Iowa Highway 302, which was decommissioned in 1980.

Geography
Thor is located at 42.68861°N, -94.04889°W (42.688687, -94.048902).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.00 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 186 people, 73 households, and 49 families residing in the city. The population density was 186.0 PD/sqmi. There were 80 housing units at an average density of 80.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.2% White, 1.1% Asian, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 73 households, of which 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.9% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.9% were non-families. 26.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 3.12.

The median age in the city was 32.7 years. 25.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 32.9% were from 25 to 44; 17.8% were from 45 to 64; and 11.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 52.2% male and 47.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 174 people, 82 households, and 45 families residing in the city. The population density was 174.6 PD/sqmi. There were 88 housing units at an average density of 88.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 82 households, out of which 23.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.1% were married couples living together, 3.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 45.1% were non-families. 36.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.76.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.8% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 28.2% from 45 to 64, and 15.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,000, and the median income for a family was $37,500. Males had a median income of $29,375 versus $23,000 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,410. About 9.5% of families and 10.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.0% of those under the age of eighteen and 24.1% of those 65 or over.

Education
The Eagle Grove Community School District serves children from PreK to 12th grade. The district covers area of Wright, Humboldt, and Webster counties, and serves the communities of Eagle Grove, Thor, Vincent, Woolstock, and the surrounding rural areas.

Notable person

 * John K. Hanson (1913–1996), founder and former chairman of Winnebago Industries Inc.

title: Thor, Iowa