text:
Le Mars, Iowa

Le Mars is the county seat of Plymouth County, Iowa, United States. It is located on the Floyd River northeast of Sioux City. The population was 10,571 at the time of the 2020 census. Le Mars is part of the Sioux City metropolitan area.

History
Le Mars is the home of Wells Enterprises, Inc., world's largest producer of ice cream novelties in one location and so claims to be the "Ice Cream Capital of the World" although it would probably be more accurate to claim to be the “Ice Cream Novelties Capital of the World”.

Le Mars was platted in 1869, but no lots were sold until the Iowa Falls and Sioux City Railroad Company, a subsidiary of the Iowa Falls and Sioux City Railroad (later part of the Illinois Central Railroad), completed its trackage from Le Mars southwardly to Sioux City in 1870.

Railroad magnate John I. Blair hosted an excursion to the new town, which was then called St. Paul Junction because of its 1871 connection to St. Paul on the nascent Sioux City & St. Paul Railroad. Blair asked the women in the party to name the town, and they submitted an acronym based upon their first names' initials: Lucy Ford and Laura Walker, Ellen Cleghorn or Elizabeth Underhill, Martha Weare and Mary Weare, Adeline Swain, Rebecca Smith and Sarah Reynolds. (Note that some letters represent more than one person.) There was some subsequent uncertainty about who the women of the acronym actually were. For example, the city's web page contains a somewhat different list.

In 1885, Frederick Brooke Close, a young Englishman who had passed up attending Cambridge University to live in Iowa, founded the Northwestern Polo League in Le Mars.

During the Great Depression in 1933, at a time when banks were foreclosing on many farmers, Le Mars caught the attention of the nation when "over five hundred farmers crowded the court room in Le Mars", according to an account by historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr. The farmers were there to demand that Judge Charles C. Bradley suspend foreclosure proceedings until recently passed laws could be considered. Judge Bradley refused. One farmer remarked that the court room wasn't his alone, that farmers had paid for it with their taxes. The crowd rushed the judge, slapped him, and placed a rope around his neck and a hub cap on his head. They did not, however lynch him.

President George W. Bush came to Le Mars on November 3, 2006, to campaign for Jim Nussle, then candidate for Iowa governor, as well as Rep. Steve King. He spoke at Le Mars Community High School to a crowd of over 2500 people. Le Mars is a popular stop for presidential candidates as they make their way across caucus-famous Iowa, and has been visited by nearly every presidential candidate over the past several elections including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney, John McCain, etc.

Wells Enterprises
In 1925, Fred H. Wells Jr. and his sons had opened an ice cream manufacturing plant there. However, the plant (and the Wells name) was purchased by Fairmount Ice Cream in 1928. In 1935, Fred and his sons sought to begin selling ice cream again, but could no longer use their name. They, therefore, sponsored a “Name That Ice Cream” contest in the Sioux City Journal. The winner of the $25 prize suggested "Blue Bunny" because his son had enjoyed seeing blue bunnies in department store windows at Easter. In 2022, the company Ferrero Rocher purchased Wells Enterprise.

Dominating the skyline of present-day Le Mars is Wells' Blue Bunny Dairy's 900000 sqft plant with a 12-story tall refrigeration tower called the "South Ice Cream Plant" – so-named because it is on the south side of town. As of 2005, the plant employed 1,000 and produces 75 million gallons of frozen treats, the milk coming mainly coming from three large Iowa dairy farms. The size of this plant has led to speculation that the company is the world's largest family-owned and managed dairy processor and the world's largest manufacturer of ice cream in one location, with Le Mars claiming to be the "Ice Cream Capital of the World".

Wells is best known for its various sweet products, including Blue Bunny, Bomb Pop, Blue Ribbon, and Chilly Cow. To showcase its sweet treats, Le Mars has an ice cream parlor, which was remodeled in 2019, and includes an old-fashioned ice cream serving station, museum displays, roof-top seating, and gift shop. The ice cream parlor in Le Mars is one of the largest tourist attractions in the state of Iowa. Le Mars hosts an annual celebration "Ice Cream Days" every year in late June which includes many activities such as ice cream socials, concerts, art exhibitions, parades, and more.

Geography
Le Mars is located at 42.78889°N, -96.16583°W (42.788799, −96.165944). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.55 sqmi, of which 8.54 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

Demographics
Le Mars is a part of the Sioux City metropolitan area.

2010 census
As of the census of 2015, there were 9,436 people, 4,013 households, and 2,593 families residing in the city. The population density was 1096.7 PD/sqmi. There were 4,220 housing units at an average density of 471.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.5% White, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 2.9% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.4% of the population.

There were 4,013 households, of which 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.3% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.4% were non-families. 30.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% 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 3.00.

The median age in the city was 39.2 years. 25.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 26.3% were from 45 to 64; and 16.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.4% male and 51.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 9,237 people, 3,640 households, and 2,453 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,356.9 PD/sqmi. There were 3,818 housing units at an average density of 560.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.24% White, 0.45% African American, 0.16% Native American, 0.30% Asian, 0.09% Pacific Islander, 0.94% from other races, and 0.81% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.44% of the population.

There were 3,640 households, out of which 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.0% were married couples living together, 8.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.6% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 3.05.

Age spread: 27.2% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $38,892, and the median income for a family was $47,409. Males had a median income of $35,936 versus $21,757 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,598. About 4.5% of families and 6.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.0% of those under age 18 and 6.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Le Mars is home to two educational institutions, one public and one private.

Le Mars Community School District
Le Mars Community School District is the public school serving over 2,000 students grades PK–12. Le Mars Community, known locally as "Community", has a mascot of a bulldog. Le Mars was a member of the Lakes Conference until July 2019, when it switched to the Missouri River Conference.

Elementary

 * Clark Elementary School (K–5)
 * Franklin Elementary School (K–5)
 * Kluckhohn Elementary School (K–5)

Middle school

 * Le Mars Community Middle School (6–8)

High school

 * Le Mars Community High School (9–12)

Alternative education

 * Individualized Learning Center

Gehlen Catholic Schools
Gehlen Catholic is a private school associated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sioux City serving over 350 students in grades PK–12. Gehlen Catholic's mascot is a jay. Gehlen Catholic is a member of the War Eagle Conference.

Elementary

 * Gehlen Catholic Elementary School

Middle School

 * Gehlen Catholic Middle School

High school

 * Gehlen Catholic High School

Westmar University
Westmar University was a private four-year liberal arts college in Le Mars. It permanently closed on November 21, 1997.

Airports
Le Mars Municipal Airport is owned by the city of Le Mars and located two nautical miles (3.7 km) southwest of its central business district.

Major roads

 * U.S. Route 75 runs north–south through the city of Le Mars.
 * Iowa State Highway 3 runs east–west through the city of Le Mars.
 * Iowa State Highway 60 begins on the north edge of Le Mars and continues northeast to the Minnesota border.

Notable places

 * Plymouth County Courthouse
 * St. George's Episcopal Church
 * Tonsfeldt Round Barn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places
 * Westmar University A private four-year liberal arts college that permanently closed on November 21, 1997.
 * Wells Enterprises
 * Le Mars Public Library
 * Plymouth Roller Milling Company
 * Archie's Waeside is a steakhouse restaurant known for its dry-aged beef steaks. Archie's was named the 2nd best steak house in America by Rachel Ray Magazine. In 2015, Archie's Waeside was awarded the James Beard Foundation's 2015 America's Classics Awards.
 * The Wells Visitor Center and Ice Cream Parlor is located in downtown Le Mars. It was remodeled inside and out in 2018–2019. It offers an old-fashioned serving station, seating, interactive displays, roof-top seating, party room, and gift shop.
 * Bob's Drive Inn is a popular local restaurant serving classic taverns and hotdogs, among other iconic "drive in" items. Bob's Drive Inn has won "Best Hot Dog in Iowa" by People's Magazine.

Notable people

 * Clarence E. Coe, pioneer of Palms, California and member of the Los Angeles, California, City Council, born in Le Mars
 * Bruce Dreckman, umpire in Major League Baseball
 * Albert W. Durley, Wisconsin State Assemblyman and lawyer
 * Loyal M. Haynes, Brigadier General in U.S. Army, commanding general of 2nd Division Artillery Unit in Korean War and survivor of the 1946 C-53 Skytrooper crash on the Gauli Glacier
 * John Gregory Kelly, Roman Catholic bishop
 * Clyde Kluckhohn, Harvard professor in Social Anthropology, born in Le Mars
 * Keith Knudsen, drummer for the Doobie Brothers
 * Jim Nicholson, former Secretary of Veteran Affairs and Republican Party Chairman
 * Donald Paulin, Iowa state legislator, mayor of Le Mars, and businessman
 * Nancy Jo Powell, former United States ambassador
 * Paul Rust, star of I Love You, Beth Cooper and Love (TV series)
 * Roger C. Schultz, United States Army Lieutenant General and Director of the Army National Guard
 * John Spenkelink, first person involuntarily executed in the United States after the re-introduction of the death penalty
 * Charles A. Spring, influential Presbyterian, son of Revolutionary War chaplain Samuel Spring
 * Thomas Starzl, innovator in organ transplant surgery
 * Isaac S. Struble, congressman and namesake of Struble, Iowa

title: Le Mars, Iowa


text:
Merrill, Iowa

Merrill is a city in Plymouth County, Iowa, United States, along the Floyd River. The population was 717 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Merrill was named in 1872 for the seventh Governor of Iowa, Samuel Merrill. It and became an incorporated city on April 24, 1894.

In 2007, the city hired Drake University public relations seniors to research and develop strategies to attract new residents.

Geography
Merrill is located at 42.72139°N, -96.25083°W (42.721461, -96.250779).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.57 sqmi, all land. It is located near the Floyd River, and is on U.S. Route 75, 20 minutes north of Sioux City.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 755 people, 304 households, and 212 families living in the city. The population density was 1324.6 PD/sqmi. There were 317 housing units at an average density of 556.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.9% White, 0.7% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 304 households, of which 35.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.6% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.3% were non-families. 28.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 3.02.

The median age in the city was 39.7 years. 26.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.2% were from 25 to 44; 27.4% were from 45 to 64; and 15.9% 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 754 people, 280 households, and 203 families living in the city. The population density was 1,739.5 PD/sqmi. There were 294 housing units at an average density of 678.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.41% White, 0.40% African American, 0.27% Asian, 0.66% from other races, and 0.27% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.46% of the population.

There were 280 households, out of which 37.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.2% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.5% were non-families. 24.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.69 and the average family size was 3.24.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.2% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 17.8% from 45 to 64, and 17.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 113.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $43,333, and the median income for a family was $50,000. Males had a median income of $31,620 versus $21,845 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,656. About 2.1% of families and 4.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.2% of those under age 18 and 5.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Le Mars Community School District operates local area public schools.

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

title: Merrill, Iowa


text:
Oyens, Iowa

Oyens is a city in Plymouth County, Iowa, United States. The population was 92 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
Oyens is located at 42.81944°N, -96.05778°W (42.819432, -96.057790).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.09 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 103 people, 42 households, and 30 families living in the city. The population density was 1144.4 PD/sqmi. There were 45 housing units at an average density of 500.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 42 households, of which 35.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.9% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 28.6% were non-families. 23.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.93.

The median age in the city was 40.5 years. 23.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 10.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.4% were from 25 to 44; 29.2% were from 45 to 64; and 14.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 53.4% male and 46.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 132 people, 48 households, and 39 families living in the city. The population density was 1,405.9 PD/sqmi. There were 48 housing units at an average density of 511.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.03% of the population.

There were 48 households, out of which 39.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 75.0% were married couples living together, 4.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.7% were non-families. 14.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.75 and the average family size was 3.03.

Age spread: 27.3% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 34.1% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 8.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 116.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 134.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $53,333, and the median income for a family was $52,500. Males had a median income of $25,714 versus $25,833 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,969. There were no families and 2.0% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

title: Oyens, Iowa


text:
Remsen, Iowa

Remsen is a city in Plymouth County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,678 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Remsen was named for Dr. William Remsen Smith. Smith had a good friend who suggested the name Smithville, but Smith thought that there were too many Smiths in the world, so she chose to give the town his middle name.

Remsen was platted by the Iowa Falls and Sioux City Railroad Town Land and Lot Company on August 28, 1876, and was incorporated in the spring of 1889. The population in 1885 was given at 650, of whom 400 were American born.

Remsen was settled mostly by German and Luxembourg immigrants. Plagued by religious persecution, unwelcome Prussian military conscription and economic limitations, the early immigrants left their native land to start a new life in the land of opportunity now called Remsen.

Remsen citizens retained their Luxembourg traditions of deep religious faith and loyal, energetic, hard working and fun loving style. At the same time they contributed to their share in the building and development of America and were quick to respond whenever Uncle Sam called on his citizens for a service, always eager to do something for the land which gave them the opportunity to raise their families as free and independent American citizens.

During Prohibition, Remsen was a major player in the brewing, transporting and sale of illegal alcohol. Its location adjacent to larger midwestern cities and the amount of farmland between homes made it a perfect area to make moonshine. Much of the moonshine produced ended up in one of two other Iowa cities: Sioux City or Pocahontas.

On July 4, 1936, a massive fire destroyed 15 homes and 18 buildings that housed 38 businesses. The fire started when a couple young kids, never identified, were playing with fireworks when a nearby tent caught fire. With the winds and extreme heat, the fire was out of control within minutes. This resulted in an all-night battle for nearby fire departments. This led to the 84 year long ban of fireworks in Iowa.

Geography
Remsen is located at 42.81306°N, -95.97167°W (42.813118, -95.971673).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.27 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,663 people, 645 households, and 436 families living in the city. The population density was 1309.4 PD/sqmi. There were 704 housing units at an average density of 554.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.2% White, 0.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.9% of the population.

There were 645 households, of which 32.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.8% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.4% were non-families. 29.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.5% 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 3.11.

The median age in the city was 41.4 years. 27.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.8% were from 25 to 44; 24.7% were from 45 to 64; and 20.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,762 people, 671 households, and 460 families living in the city. The population density was 1,655.2 PD/sqmi. There were 701 housing units at an average density of 658.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.49% White, 0.06% Asian, 0.11% from other races, and 0.34% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.34% of the population.

There were 671 households, out of which 34.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.4% were non-families. 28.3% 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 2.53 and the average family size was 3.15.

28.9% were under the age of 18, 5.2% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 17.6% from 45 to 64, and 24.0% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.5 males.

The median household income was $37,950 and the median family income was $48,250. Males had a median income of $32,841 versus $21,094 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,465. About 3.3% of families and 5.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.3% of those under age 18 and 6.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is within the Remsen Union Community School District. The MMC district currently operates as "MMCRU" schools as part of a grade-sharing arrangement with the Marcus-Meriden-Cleghorn Community School District.

It also houses Remsen St. Mary's, a private, Roman Catholic school.

title: Remsen, Iowa


text:
Struble, Iowa

Struble is a city in Plymouth County, Iowa, United States, along the West Branch of the Floyd River. The population was 67 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
Struble is located in Elgin Township, some seven miles north of LeMars, at 42.89417°N, -96.19333°W (42.894252, -96.193304).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.16 sqmi, all land.

There is one main street running east–west with commercial buildings, now vacant. At the west end of Main Street is one active church and a cemetery. Just to the east of town a BNSF Railway line runs north–south. Most of Struble consists of well-kept private homes. Beyond are cultivated fields on gently rolling farmland.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 78 people, 33 households, and 20 families living in the city. The population density was 487.5 PD/sqmi. There were 35 housing units at an average density of 218.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 84.6% White, 10.3% from other races, and 5.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 14.1% of the population.

There were 33 households, of which 30.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.5% were married couples living together, 6.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.4% were non-families. 39.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 3.15.

The median age in the city was 41 years. 26.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.1% were from 25 to 44; 36% were from 45 to 64; and 11.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.3% male and 48.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 85 people, 33 households, and 20 families living in the city. The population density was 546.2 PD/sqmi. There were 35 housing units at an average density of 224.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.94% White, 1.18% from other races, and 5.88% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.06% of the population.

There were 33 households, out of which 39.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.5% were married couples living together, 6.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.4% were non-families. 36.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.48.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 36.5% under the age of 18, 1.2% from 18 to 24, 36.5% from 25 to 44, 15.3% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 129.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 107.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $37,813, and the median income for a family was $45,833. Males had a median income of $26,875 versus $21,042 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,423. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
The Le Mars Community School District operates local area public schools.

Notable people

 * Jim Nicholson, former United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Republican National Committee chairman and U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See. Born and raised in Struble.
 * Isaac S. Struble, Congressman (1883–1891) for whom Struble, Iowa is named. Struble lived in nearby LeMars until his death in 1913.

title: Struble, Iowa


text:
Westfield, Iowa

Westfield is a city in Plymouth County, Iowa, United States. The population was 123 at the time of the 2020 census. It is the westernmost point in Iowa, this being due to a bend in the Big Sioux River. The nearby Broken Kettle wildlife refuge is one of the few places in Iowa where prairie rattlesnakes are commonly found.

Westfield is the purported home town of the central character, Jack Smurch, in James Thurber's 1931 short story "The Greatest Man in the World." In the story, the fictional Smurch flies a second-hand, single-motored monoplane in July 1937 all the way around the world, without stopping.

Geography
Westfield is located at 42.75583°N, -96.60417°W (42.755884, -96.604050).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.13 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 132 people, 54 households, and 37 families living in the city. The population density was 1015.4 PD/sqmi. There were 73 housing units at an average density of 561.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 87.1% White, 3.8% Native American, 3.0% from other races, and 6.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.3% of the population.

There were 54 households, of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.9% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 11.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.5% were non-families. 29.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 3.00.

The median age in the city was 39.5 years. 23.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25% were from 25 to 44; 30.2% were from 45 to 64; and 11.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.5% male and 48.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 189 people, 74 households, and 54 families living in the city. The population density was 1,438.3 PD/sqmi. There were 85 housing units at an average density of 646.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 89.42% White, 3.70% Native American, 1.06% Asian, 0.53% from other races, and 5.29% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.12% of the population.

There were 74 households, out of which 33.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 14.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.7% were non-families. 24.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% 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 2.93.

Age spread: 24.3% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 28.6% from 25 to 44, 24.3% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 110.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,929, and the median income for a family was $35,833. Males had a median income of $29,000 versus $17,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,211. About 3.8% of families and 3.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.7% of those under the age of eighteen and none of those 65 or over.

Education
The Akron–Westfield Community School District operates area public schools. The district formed on July 1, 1981, as a merger of the Akron and Westfield school districts. Akron–Westfield Senior High School is the local high school.

title: Westfield, Iowa


text:
Fonda, Iowa

Fonda is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 636 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
The city of Fonda was originally called Marvin. Marvin, however, was deemed too similar to Manson, Iowa and due to mail being mixed up, town officials changed the name to Fonda in 1874. The nearest municipality sharing the name, "Fonda", is Fonda, New York.

Geography

Fonda is located at 42.58278°N, -94.84583°W (42.582819, -94.845810).

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

The town is located at the western edge of the Des Moines Lobe, the most recently glaciated section of Iowa. The Des Moines Lobe is part of the prairie pothole region of the Midwest. The topography is irregular in its gently rolling terrain. Wetlands, glacial erratics, concentric bands of ridges, and large flat areas characterize the land surrounding Fonda. In its natural state, the land is poorly drained, although humans have added an extensive network of tiles to move water from the potholes to local tributaries. The tiles surrounding Fonda empty into Big Cedar Creek, a tributary of the Raccoon River. This waterway, which underwent channelization in the early 1900s, flows past the town on its west end. Evidence of its winding original path still exists, particularly in the Fonda Golf Course and in the schoolyard behind Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church.

Four miles (6 km) northwest of town, Sunken Grove Wildlife Management Area (WMA) exists as a reminder of the past. Large undrained wetlands are surrounded by forests and prairies. The area is home to large populations of migrating birds and permanent populations of wildlife. This public parcel has recently expanded and is adjacent to the Leo Shimon WMA. Together, the two areas comprise 1148 acre of land, a total of slightly less than two square miles.

The remainder of the area surrounding Fonda is agricultural. Vast corn and soybean fields are interspersed by acreages and hog confinements (also known as a concentrated animal feeding operation). The vitality of the town and of the region have been influenced by the shift from a sustenance way of farming to an industrial model. Fewer farmers, less diversity in agricultural products, more agrochemicals, and more tillage have upset the economic system of the town and surrounding countryside. Fonda's AgPartners elevator is partially owned by Cargill. Many of the hog confinements around town are owned by corporations, such as New Fashion Pork, based in Jackson, Minnesota.

Pocahontas County has seen a large decrease in the number of farms. In 1969, there were 1,369 farms. By 1997 the number had dropped to 778. The average farm size has increased from 265 to 459 acres (107 to 186 hectares) in that same time period. In 1969, 844 farms sold 176,705 hogs. In 1997, 162 farms sold 248,666 hogs.

In 1982, 14 poultry farms housed 69,911 layers. By 1997, no farms and no layers existed. In 1982, there were 26728 acre of pastures and acreages in the county. By 1997, that amount had decreased to 16840 acre.

Des Moines, which lies 135 mi south and east of Fonda, receives a large portion of its drinking water from the Raccoon River (and thus Big Cedar Creek). From 1978 to 2004, contamination at its water intake plant due to nitrates (an agrichemical) has increased from 4.5 mg/L to 7.7 mg/L. Nitrate consumption is linked to blue baby syndrome.

Demographics

Fonda has seen a steady decrease in its population in recent decades. In 1980, the town had 863 residents, and in 1990 there were 731.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 631 people, 259 households, and 157 families residing in the city. The population density was 601.0 PD/sqmi. There were 329 housing units at an average density of 313.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.5% Pacific Islander, 2.5% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.7% of the population.

There were 259 households, of which 29.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.0% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.4% were non-families. 35.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.29 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the city was 46.1 years. 23.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.7% were from 25 to 44; 30.5% were from 45 to 64; and 20.9% 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 648 people, 288 households, and 160 families residing in the city. The population density was 632.8 PD/sqmi. There were 339 housing units at an average density of 331.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.61% White, 0.31% African American, and 1.08% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.70% of the population.

There were 288 households, out of which 23.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.4% were married couples living together, 7.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.1% were non-families. 41.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 26.4% 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 2.89.

Age spread: 22.8% under the age of 18, 4.5% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 17.7% from 45 to 64, and 32.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,731, and the median income for a family was $37,500. Males had a median income of $26,597 versus $16,667 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,626. About 7.1% of families and 11.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.8% of those under age 18 and 10.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Fonda is served by the Newell-Fonda Community School District, which operates Newell-Fonda High School in Newell.

It was in the Fonda School District until July 1, 1993, when it consolidated into Newell-Fonda.

Notable people

 * Henry A. Kelly (born 1934), distinguished research professor of English at UCLA
 * Jim Kelly (1893-1972), basketball head coach at DePaul University, track-and-field coach for University of Minnesota and 1956 U.S. Olympic team
 * Ruth Stafford Peale (1906–2008) writer, co-founder of Guideposts with husband Norman Vincent Peale
 * Nathan Post (1881–1938) 8th and 10th Governor of American Samoa

title: Fonda, Iowa


text:
Havelock, Iowa

Havelock is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 130 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Havelock was platted in 1881. It is named for Henry Havelock.

Geography
Havelock is located at 42.83333°N, -94.70167°W (42.833367, -94.701762).

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

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 138 people in 65 households, including 35 families, in the city. The population density was 242.1 PD/sqmi. There were 87 housing units at an average density of 152.6 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 92.8% White, 1.4% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.7% Pacific Islander, and 4.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.5%.

Of the 65 households 21.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.0% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 46.2% were non-families. 38.5% of households were one person and 15.4% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.74.

The median age was 43.3 years. 18.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 12.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.7% were from 25 to 44; 32.6% were from 45 to 64; and 14.5% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 177 people in 82 households, including 44 families, in the city. The population density was 314.3 PD/sqmi. There were 95 housing units at an average density of 168.7 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 97.74% White, and 2.26% from two or more races. Of the 82 households 24.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.1% were married couples living together, 6.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.3% were non-families. 42.7% of households were one person and 25.6% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 3.05.

The age distribution was 24.9% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 19.2% from 45 to 64, and 24.3% 65 or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.8 males.

The median household income was $28,462 and the median family income was $32,917. Males had a median income of $25,469 versus $24,375 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,548. About 6.4% of families and 12.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.5% of those under the age of eighteen and 24.4% of those sixty five or over.

Education
Pocahontas Area Community School District operates public schools. It was in the Havelock-Plover Community School District until July 1, 1989, when it consolidated into the Pocahontas School District, resulting in the Pocahontas Area School District.

title: Havelock, Iowa


text:
Laurens, Iowa

Laurens is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. Its population was 1,264 at the 2020 census.

History
Laurens was platted in 1881. It was named in honor of Henry and John Laurens, father and son, two French Huguenots who became residents of Charleston, South Carolina, and were loyal to the Colonies during the Revolution.

Geography
Laurens is located at 42.84722°N, -94.84944°W (42.847105, -94.849542).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.73 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 1,258 people in 571 households, including 332 families, in the city. The population density was 1723.3 PD/sqmi. There were 677 housing units at an average density of 927.4 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 97.5% White, 0.3% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 0.6% from other races, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4%.

Of the 571 households 25.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.5% were married couples living together, 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.9% were non-families. 36.8% of households were one person and 16.4% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age was 45.6 years. 22% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.6% were from 25 to 44; 29.5% were from 45 to 64; and 21.2% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 1,476 people in 656 households, including 400 families, in the city. The population density was 1,999.4 PD/sqmi. There were 711 housing units at an average density of 963.1 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 98.68% White, 0.14% Native American, 0.41% Asian, and 0.75% from two or more races. 1.08% of the population were Hispanic [0.01% Brazilian] [0.02 French] or Latino of any race. Of the 656 households 29.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 8.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 36.9% of households were one person and 22.0% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.84.

24.0% are under the age of 18, 5.4% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 25.5% 65 or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.3 males.

The median household income was $33,188 and the median family income was $43,661. Males had a median income of $31,063 versus $19,716 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,711. About 4.8% of families and 7.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Laurens is home to the Laurens–Marathon Community School District. It was a part of the Laurens Community School District until its consolidation into Laurens–Marathon on July 1, 1976. All grades are located in one building in Laurens. In 2000 the enrollment was 423 for all grades, and there were about 40 full-time teaching staff. High school students from Laurens–Marathon have attended Pocahontas Area High School since 2017.

In popular culture
Laurens was the home of Alvin Straight, a 73-year-old man famous for travelling 240 mi on a lawnmower. His story was made into the film The Straight Story (1999), directed by David Lynch and starring Richard Farnsworth (who received an Oscar-nomination for his performance) and Sissy Spacek. It was filmed partly in Laurens. "Laurens, Iowa" is also the title of an instrumental song in its soundtrack.

Sister city
Laurens, France, became a sister city to Laurens, Iowa, during the preparations for the 2007 quasquicentennial (125th anniversary).

Notable people

 * Jesse Schmidt, record breaking wide receiver for the Iowa Barnstormers of the Arena Football League
 * Alvin Straight, a 73-year-old man famous for travelling 240 miles on a lawnmower; his story was made into the film The Straight Story
 * Becky Stoner, Miss Iowa USA 1969
 * Fred C. Gilchrist, member of the Iowa House of Representatives for one term, in 1902–1904. He also served as president of the board of education of Laurens from 1905 to 1928. Returning to legislative service, he served the Iowa Senate from 1923 to 1931. He served seven terms as a Republican U.S. Representative from Iowa from 1933–44.
 * Adrian Lynch, a pitcher for the St. Louis Browns of the American Baseball League. He broke into the big leagues on August 4, 1920, but played in only five games. His record was 2–0 with a 5.24 ERA.

title: Laurens, Iowa


text:
Palmer, Iowa

Palmer is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 138 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Palmer got its start in the year 1899, following construction of the Rock Island railroad through that territory.

Geography
Palmer is located at 42.63083°N, -94.6°W (42.630929, -94.599948).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.42 sqmi, all of it land.

Palmer lies near the center of Manson crater, an impact structure buried by glacial till and outwash.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 165 people, 85 households, and 40 families residing in the city. The population density was 392.9 PD/sqmi. There were 102 housing units at an average density of 242.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.8% White, 0.6% African American, 1.2% Native American, 1.2% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.2% of the population.

There were 85 households, of which 18.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.5% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 52.9% were non-families. 43.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.94 and the average family size was 2.63.

The median age in the city was 47.8 years. 18.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.6% were from 25 to 44; 35.2% were from 45 to 64; and 19.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.3% male and 49.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 214 people, 100 households, and 58 families residing in the city. The population density was 502.8 PD/sqmi. There were 104 housing units at an average density of 244.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.33% White, 3.74% African American, 0.47% Native American and 0.47% Asian.

There were 100 households, out of which 21.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.0% were married couples living together, 2.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.0% were non-families. 38.0% 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 2.14 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.0% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 21.5% from 25 to 44, 24.8% from 45 to 64, and 25.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 114.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,000, and the median income for a family was $45,250. Males had a median income of $27,778 versus $16,875 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,775. About 10.9% of families and 16.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.4% of those under the age of eighteen and 5.5% of those 65 or over.

Education
Pocahontas Area Community School District operates public schools. It was in the Palmer School District until July 1, 1993, when it consolidated into the Pomeroy–Palmer Community School District; on July 1, 2012, that district consolidated into the Pocahontas Area School District.

Sports
Palmer had many successful semi-pro baseball teams in the heyday of town teams.

Palmer's high school boys' basketball team had a long run of success in the 1980s, winning three straight state championships from 1986 to 1988. Its teams scored record numbers of points, and its games were played in front of packed crowds. Ultimately, the team won 103 straight games, setting the state record.

title: Palmer, Iowa


text:
Plover, Iowa

Plover is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 50 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Plover was platted in 1883, soon after the Des Moines and Fort Dodge Railroad was built through that territory. The railroad president named the town after the plover bird.

Geography
Plover is located at 42.87806°N, -94.62278°W (42.878058, -94.622648).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.54 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 77 people, 34 households, and 20 families living in the city. The population density was 142.6 PD/sqmi. There were 44 housing units at an average density of 81.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.7% White and 1.3% from two or more races.

There were 34 households, of which 26.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 2.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.2% were non-families. 38.2% 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 2.26 and the average family size was 3.05.

The median age in the city was 46.3 years. 24.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.2% were from 25 to 44; 32.5% were from 45 to 64; and 18.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.6% male and 49.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 95 people, 43 households, and 30 families living in the city. The population density was 174.8 PD/sqmi. There were 50 housing units at an average density of 92.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.89% White, 1.05% Asian, and 1.05% from two or more races.

There were 43 households, out of which 23.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.8% were married couples living together, 4.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were non-families. 30.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% 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 2.70.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.8% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 21.1% from 25 to 44, 31.6% from 45 to 64, and 23.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 113.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,306, and the median income for a family was $30,625. Males had a median income of $25,750 versus $26,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,241. There were 17.2% of families and 15.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including 46.7% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Pocahontas Area Community School District operates public schools. It was in the Havelock-Plover Community School District until July 1, 1989, when it consolidated into the Pocahontas School District, resulting in the Pocahontas Area School District.

title: Plover, Iowa


text:
Pocahontas, Iowa

Pocahontas is a city in and the county seat of Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,867 in the 2020 census, a decline from the 1,970 population in 2000.

History
Pocahontas was first settled and surveyed in 1870 by Warrick and Buelah Price of Cleveland, Ohio. The city was named after Pocahontas, a Powhatan woman from Jamestown, Virginia. Other geographical names in the county related to the colony at Jamestown are Rolfe, Powhatan Township and Varina.

Pocahontas was incorporated as a city on May 16, 1892.

April 9, 2011 tornado
During the tornado outbreak of April 9–11, 2011, several tornadoes hit Pocahontas County and the surrounding area. No one was injured and there were no fatalities. The strongest was an EF4 that touched down west of town.

Geography
Pocahontas's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 42.734476, -94.673017.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.02 sqmi, all land.

Pocahontas lies at the northwestern margin (rim) of Manson crater, an impact structure buried by glacial till and outwash.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Pocahontas has a hot-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,789 people, 852 households, and 493 families residing in the city. The population density was 885.6 PD/sqmi. There were 953 housing units at an average density of 471.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.3% White, 0.3% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.1% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.3% of the population.

There were 852 households, of which 21.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.0% were married couples living together, 7.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.1% were non-families. 39.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.04 and the average family size was 2.70.

The median age in the city was 51.1 years. 19.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.6% were from 25 to 44; 29.5% were from 45 to 64; and 29.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.6% male and 53.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,970 people, 883 households, and 549 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,059.8 PD/sqmi. There were 946 housing units at an average density of 508.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.68% White, 0.25% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.20% from other races, and 0.61% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.51% of the population.

There were 883 households, out of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 36.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 24.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 2.79.

Age spread: 23.1% under the age of 18, 4.8% from 18 to 24, 22.1% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 24.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,865, and the median income for a family was $42,690. Males had a median income of $29,806 versus $19,886 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,556. About 6.7% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.9% of those under age 18 and 5.9% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation
In 1900, a railroad came to Pocahontas. Air transportation for the town is provided by Pocahontas Municipal Airport (FAA Identifier KPOH), located approximately one mile northeast of the city. The airport has two runways, the first is designated 11/29, with a concrete surface 4100 x 60 ft (1250 x 18 m) and runway edge lights, the second is designated 18/36 with a turf surface 1998 x 135 ft (609 x 41 m) and is unlighted.

Education
Pocahontas Area Community School District operates public schools.

Notable people

 * Larry Biittner (1946–2022), former Major League Baseball player
 * Peg Mullen (1917–2009), anti-war activist and writer
 * James V. Schall (1928–2019) Jesuit priest, professor of Government at Georgetown University, and prolific Roman Catholic writer
 * Alaskan serial killer and baker, Robert Hansen, grew up here, where his parents owned the Pocahontas Home Bakery.

title: Pocahontas, Iowa


text:
Rolfe, Iowa

Rolfe is a city in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 509 at the time of the 2020 census.

This city was named after the Englishman John Rolfe, who married Pocahontas in Jamestown, Virginia.

History
Rolfe was platted in 1881 at the junction of two railroads.

Geography
Rolfe is located at 42.81444°N, -94.53°W (42.814333, -94.530029).

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 584 people, 248 households, and 159 families living in the city. The population density was 556.2 PD/sqmi. There were 305 housing units at an average density of 290.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.3% White, 0.5% African American, 1.0% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.4% of the population.

There were 248 households, of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.2% were married couples living together, 12.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.9% were non-families. 29.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.3% 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 2.72.

The median age in the city was 46 years. 22.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20% were from 25 to 44; 27.7% were from 45 to 64; and 23.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.1% male and 50.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 675 people, 296 households, and 185 families living in the city. The population density was 643.9 PD/sqmi. There were 326 housing units at an average density of 311.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.63% White, 0.44% African American, 0.30% Native American, 0.15% Asian, 0.44% from other races, and 1.04% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.04% of the population.

There were 296 households, out of which 24.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.2% were non-families. 34.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.85.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.7% under the age of 18, 6.4% from 18 to 24, 21.0% from 25 to 44, 22.7% from 45 to 64, and 27.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,861, and the median income for a family was $32,500. Males had a median income of $28,750 versus $19,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,426. About 9.7% of families and 12.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.2% of those under age 18 and 11.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Pocahontas Area Community School District operates public schools. It was in the Rolfe Community School District until July 1, 1993, when it consolidated into the Pocahontas Area School District.

title: Rolfe, Iowa


text:
Varina, Iowa

Varina is an incorporated small, rural village in Pocahontas County, Iowa, United States. The population was 68 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Varina got its start in the year 1899, following construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway through that territory. It was named after Varina Farms, a plantation established by John Rolfe in Jamestown, Virginia.

Geography
Varina is located at 42.66°N, -94.89889°W (42.659864, -94.898808).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.27 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 71 people in 30 households, including 17 families, in the city. The population density was 263.0 PD/sqmi. There were 35 housing units at an average density of 129.6 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 97.2% White and 2.8% African American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.0%.

Of the 30 households 30.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.3% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.3% were non-families. 43.3% of households were one person and 20% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 3.35.

The median age was 35.5 years. 36.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 0.0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.7% were from 25 to 44; 22.4% were from 45 to 64; and 21.1% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 53.5% male and 46.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 90 people in 36 households, including 25 families, in the city. The population density was 364.9 PD/sqmi. There were 44 housing units at an average density of 178.4 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 100.00% White.

Of the 36 households 27.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.8% were non-families. 22.2% of households were one person and 11.1% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 2.85.

The age distribution was 23.3% under the age of 18, 5.6% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 20.0% from 45 to 64, and 23.3% 65 or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 122.6 males.

The median household income was $35,469 and the median family income was $35,156. Males had a median income of $24,688 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,611. There were 9.7% of families and 12.0% of the population living below the poverty line, including 47.4% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Varina is served by the Newell-Fonda Community School District, which operates Newell-Fonda High School in Newell. It was created on July 1, 1993, as a consolidation of the Fonda Community School District and the Newell-Providence Community School District.

Churches
There is a Catholic and Methodist Church in Varina. The Catholic church is Saint Columbkilles and the Methodist is First United Methodist Church.

Organizations
American Legion Post 588 W.D. Steiner is located in Varina.

title: Varina, Iowa


text:
Alleman, Iowa

Alleman is a city in Polk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 423 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Des Moines–West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Alleman was named for early settler John L. Alleman. It did not incorporate as a city until May 18, 1973, making it the most recent city to incorporate in Polk County.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.70 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 432 people, 151 households, and 130 families residing in the city. The population density was 160.0 PD/sqmi. There were 152 housing units at an average density of 56.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.4% White, 0.2% Asian, and 1.4% from two or more races.

There were 151 households, of which 37.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 74.2% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 13.9% were non-families. 11.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.86 and the average family size was 3.09.

The median age in the city was 41.3 years. 28.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.3% were from 25 to 44; 35.9% were from 45 to 64; and 7.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.5% male and 49.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 439 people, 140 households, and 132 families residing in the city. The population density was 176.9 PD/sqmi. There were 142 housing units at an average density of 57.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.32% White, 0.23% Asian, and 0.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.46% of the population.

There were 140 households, out of which 47.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 86.4% were married couples living together, 5.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 5.7% were non-families. 4.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.14 and the average family size was 3.23.

31.7% are under the age of 18, 4.8% from 18 to 24, 31.4% from 25 to 44, 25.1% from 45 to 64, and 7.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.8 males.

As of the 2000 census, the median income for a household in the city was $66,458 and the median income for a family was $66,154. Males had a median income of $45,000 versus $31,719 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,970. About 1.5% of families and 1.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.3% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

Economy
The Heartland Cooperative grain storage facility is located in Alleman, with a capacity of 774000 bushels.

Education
The community is within the North Polk Community School District. Alleman is the home of North Polk High School, North Polk Middle School, North Polk Central Elementary School, North Polk bus barn, and the North Polk District Office. A new high school and outdoor activities facility were opened in 2013.

Media
Because of its central location and relatively high altitude for central Iowa, two Doppler weather radar stations are located in Alleman: WHO-TV 13's First Alert Mega Doppler, and KCCI-TV 8's Super Doppler 8. A storm in July 2011 resulted in the radome from the Mega Doppler being torn from the structure and landing in a nearby yard.

Because Alleman is located about midway between Des Moines and Ames, many radio and television stations transmit from towers located in the town. These towers include some of the world's tallest structures, reaching over 600 m. Along with the towers, a large portion of the Alleman low-altitude airspace is obstructed by the many guy-wires supporting the structures, making the area extremely hazardous for small, low-altitude aircraft. The specific antennas are:
 * Local TV Iowa Tower Alleman, 609.6 m, constructed in 1972.
 * Des Moines Hearst-Argyle Television Tower Alleman, 609.6 m, constructed in 1974.
 * Saga Communications Tower Alleman, 469.1 m, constructed in 1982.
 * American Towers Tower Alleman, 609.3 m, constructed in 2001.

title: Alleman, Iowa


text:
Altoona, Iowa

Altoona is a city in Polk County, Iowa, United States, and part of the Des Moines metropolitan area. The population was 19,565 at the 2020 census. It is home to the Adventureland amusement park and Prairie Meadows horse racing track and casino.

History
Anthony Yant first settled in what is now Altoona in 1854, the same year Gilbert T. Taylor settled there. The land was originally surveyed in 1847 and put up for sale by the US government in 1848, but it took six years to sell. After many sales between different families, the Davis family ended up with the land on February 1, 1868.

The Davises hired surveyor Julian B. Bausman to lay out the city. He is also credited for giving the city the current name. Altoona is named for the Latin word for "high," altus, after surveyor Julian B. Bausman discovered Altoona was the highest point on the Des Moines Valley Railroad between Des Moines and Keokuk.

The plot was recorded on July 30, 1868, and the Post office opened the next day. When the Rock Island Railroad came to Altoona in September of that year, they referred to Altoona as Yant, the city's original name.

Altoona was incorporated as a city on March 11, 1876.

In addition to serving as Altoona's first mayor, Francis English was the town doctor. After the great train crash of 1877, English was the first doctor on the scene.

Altoona's second mayor was Thomas Haines, who operated the T.E. Haines tile and brick company. Haines donated land to the city of Altoona to be used as a park, now known as Haines Park.

The only other mayor of Altoona to have a park dedicated to him is Sam Wise, noted for paving the streets of Altoona, and building a sewer system that was advanced for its time and allowed for future expansion. His dedication to Altoona's parks led to the city's sports complex being named the "Sam Wise Youth Complex."

By the turn of the 20th century, Altoona could almost be classified as a coal camp. United Mine Workers of America Local 407 was organized in Altoona in 1897, and by 1902, it had 61 members. This was close to 20 percent of the town's population at the time.

On May 5, 2003, the Altoona City Council recognized the Altoona Area Historical Society as the city's official organization to collect, secure, and preserve the artifacts and records of the city of Altoona and surrounding areas. In 2011 the Altoona Area Historical Society started major renovation work on the interior of Altoona's oldest building. The building is now a museum.

In 2013, construction began for a new Facebook data center. Facebook asked local company RPM Access to build and operate a wind farm that will put more energy into the system than the data center will consume.

In February 2016, the Cinemark Altoona theater opened.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 9.35 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the census  of 2020, there were 19,565 people, 7,575 households, and 5,166 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,675.1 PD/sqmi. There were 8,007 housing units. The racial makeup of the city was 86.5% White, 4.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 1.7% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 1.0% from other races, and 6.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.9% of the population.

There were 7,575 households, of which 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.9% were married couples living together, 24.9% had a female householder with no spouse or partner present, 15.5% had a male householder with no spouse or partner present, and 6.7% were cohabitating couples. 31.8% of all households were non-families. 25.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The median age in the city was 36.7 years. 28.2% of residents were under the age of 20; 5.8% were between the ages of 20 and 24; 27.4% were from 25 to 44; 24.1% were from 45 to 64; and 14.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.6% male and 51.4% female.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 14,541 people, 5,459 households, and 3,945 families residing in the city. The population density was 1555.2 PD/sqmi. There were 5,702 housing units at an average density of 609.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.1% White, 1.1% African American, 0.1% Native American, 1.1% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 0.9% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.9% of the population.

There were 5,459 households, of which 42.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, 11.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.7% were non-families. 22.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 3.12.

The median age in the city was 33.7 years. 30% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30.4% were from 25 to 44; 23.1% were from 45 to 64; and 9.1% 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 10,345 people, 3,850 households, and 2,895 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,835.4 PD/sqmi. There were 3,959 housing units at an average density of 557.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.11% White, 0.92% African American, 0.33% Native American, 0.46% Asian, 0.41% Pacific Islander, 0.77% from other races, and 1.20% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.65% of the population.

There were 3,850 households, out of which 43.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.5% were married couples living together, 14.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.8% were non-families. 19.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.66 and the average family size was 3.08.

Age spread: 30.6% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 33.3% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 7.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $50,162, and the median income for a family was $58,306. Males had a median income of $36,030 versus $28,205 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,336. About 4.0% of families and 5.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.2% of those under age 18 and 4.2% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Altoona (along with nearby Runnells, Mitchellville, and parts of Pleasant Hill and Des Moines) is part of the Southeast Polk Community School District, and its students attend Southeast Polk High School. The town is home to four of the district's eight elementary schools: Altoona, Centennial, Clay, and Willowbrook. The Altoona Elementary building also was the town's high school until it joined the Southeast Polk consolidation in 1962.

Transportation
Transit in the city is provided by Des Moines Area Regional Transit. Routes 17 and 99 provide bus service connecting the city to the region.

Notable people

 * John Falsey (1951–2019), writer, director, and producer of TV shows such as Northern Exposure
 * John Houbolt (1919–2014), Aerospace engineer promoted the lunar mission mode called Lunar orbit rendezvous for going to the Moon and back
 * Geri Huser (born 1963), Democratic Iowa House representative
 * Kyle Orton (born 1982), NFL quarterback.
 * Ed Skinner (1936–2015), Iowa lawyer and legislator
 * Neal Edward Smith (1920–2021), former US Representative from Iowa and an author
 * Jamie Solinger, Miss Iowa Teen USA 1992, Miss Teen USA 1992, Miss Iowa USA 1998

title: Altoona, Iowa


text:
Ankeny, Iowa

Ankeny is a city in Polk County, Iowa, United States and a suburb of the state capital of Des Moines, as part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA metropolitan statistical area. As of the 2020 census, the population of Ankeny was 67,887, making it the seventh most populous city in the state. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Iowa. Currently, the city's incorporated area totals 29.14 square miles.

History
Ankeny was founded as an agrarian community on April 22, 1875, by John Fletcher Ankeny and Sarah "Sally" Ankeny ( Wolgamot) on eighty acres purchased on July 11, 1874, for US$1,600. The town, a single square mile, was formally incorporated on February 28, 1903.

"In 1881, the town of Ankeny consisted of seven houses, a Methodist Church, a depot, a combination store/post office, livery stable, a blacksmith shop, rooming house, machine shop, and a school. There was no delivery of mail in the area at this time, and newspapers arrived in town on the train every Friday."

The railroad was eventually laid from Des Moines to Ames, via Ankeny. This rail was completed in 1874 and passenger service established on July 11, 1880, for 33 cents. In the 19th century, the city's industry was primarily agriculture — specifically sorghum and swine production. The former was processed at a nearby mill, while the latter were driven to the market at Keokuk, Iowa.

20th century
A local newspaper, the Ankeny Times, began publication on May 17, 1902. Utilities continued to slowly develop with telephone service in 1903 and sparse electricity in 1907. Standard residential electricity only became widespread in 1919 after the Central Light and Power Company was authorized to construct a power plant and operate in the city.

Ankeny's first fire department, a volunteer department, was established in 1907 and sparsely outfitted. Four significant fires ravaged the business district (locally known as uptown) between 1932 and 1940, but businesses rebuilt.

In the early 20th century, coal mining became significant as many companies opened shafts and mines near the city in 1903, 1907, and 1908. The Enterprise Coal Company utilized Ankeny as a company town and went on to produce over 100,000 tons of coal in 1914, ranking among the top 24 coal producers in the state. In 1912, United Mine Workers Local 2476 in Ankeny had 246 members, over half of the total population at the time, and Local 2511 in Enterprise had 395 members.

World War II and Post-War
Prior to the 1930s, most of the land in Ankeny found agricultural use: however, manufacturing became increasingly significant. In the 1940s, amidst World War II, the US federal government vacated and seized farms via eminent domain in 1941 for the construction of a military ordnance plant. The plant was fully operational from 1942 until being put on standby on V.E. Day, 1945 and officially closed immediately prior to VP day.

Post-World War II, Deere & Company purchased the factory in 1947, which began to manufacture agricultural equipment under the new name John Deere Des Moines Works. The rest of the land surrounding the plant was purchased by Iowa State University for agricultural research.

In 1958, mail delivery to residences began. The same year, a second local newspaper, the Ankeny Press-Citizen, began publication on October 1. The city's status was upgraded in 1961 from town to city by the state and federal government. In 1966, the Ankeny Times stopped publication.

Later 20th century
In August 1967, Des Moines Area Community College purchased 240 acres on the southeast of the Iowa State University plot: construction began in 1968 on a new main campus (a.k.a. Ankeny Campus). Construction on main facilities continued through the 1970s. Also in the summer of 1967, Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary was established in Ankeny. The college was formerly based in Omaha, Nebraska and known as Omaha Bible Institute (OBI) and Omaha Baptist Bible College (OBBC).

An F4 tornado struck the city in June 1974, along with Des Moines, Pleasant Hill, Runnells, Boundurant, and Carlisle. Casualties totaled two dead and fifty injured. Local Ankeny stores offered discounts in the wake of the tornado.

In 1989, public and private interests began planning for a local airport in northeast Polk County. Ankeny Regional Airport, the result of the project, opened in February 1994, with the first flight being a Cessna 182 Skylane.

21st century
In 2003, changes in Iowa state law allowed Iowa State University to sell off its research plot near Ankeny, which it did to the city in June 2005 for $23.6 million. The year prior, in 2004, the city government requested proposals for a new district called Prairie Trail to be created on the plot. Later in September 2005, the city sold the land to Dennis Albaugh, whose company submitted the chosen proposal, for the same price. The city agreed to invest up to $20 million in basic infrastructure for the district, which Albaugh's company agreed to match and enter into a Civic Trust Fund to be used for public facilities.

In 2008, Ankeny was recognized as one of the top ten towns for families by Family Circle. In 2009, Ankeny was ranked No. 62 in MONEY Magazine's top 100 places to live list.

In May 2017, an $8.5 million bond referendum was successfully held to create a new, modern library. The project, having an overall budget of $25 million, broke ground on July 1, 2018. The old Kirkendall Public Library had been used since 1996 and had 26000 ft2 while the new library has 55000 ft2 of space. The new Kirkendall Public Library opened in February 2020.

Geography
Ankeny is located in north-central Polk County. It is bordered on the east by Interstate 35, with U.S. Route 69 running through the center of the town. Most of the area of Ankeny is dry land with a small number of park ponds and streams. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 29.33 sqmi, all land. The City itself states that 29.14 mi2 of that land is incorporated.

Like most of Polk County, Ankeny exists at the bottom area of the Des Moines Lobe, a topographical landscape area, in an area known as the Bemis Advance. The Lobe was formed during the Wisconsin glaciation leaving significant deposits resulting in an area with low relief.

The upper sediments Ankeny sits upon are primarily a variable mixture of silt, sand, gravel, and loam types less than 8 meters in depth. The water table is seasonally elevated. The bedrock the city sits on is part of the Cherokee Group and composed of primarily grey shale and sandstone, with secondary black shale, coal, and mudstone.

Climate
According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Ankeny has a hot-summer humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfa" on climate maps.

Demographics
Since the city's first census results in 1910 of 445 inhabitants, Ankeny's population has grown to an estimated 67,887 people in 2020, an increase of 48% from the 45,562 of the 2010 census, which itself was a 68.1% increase from 2000.

Ankeny has been noted multiple times in recent years by the Census Bureau for rapid population growth, being listed as the fourth fastest growing city July 2016 – 2017 with a growth rate of 6.4% and the tenth fastest growing July 2017 – 2018 with a growth rate of 4.6%. To keep pace with growing population numbers, the city has requested a special census every decade since the 1970s in 1975, 1985, 1994, 2005, and 2014.

High growth rates have led to nearly 80% of Ankeny residents surveyed in 2018 to agree the city's population growth was "somewhat too fast" or "much too fast". The growth has also led to infrastructure strain and challenges.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 67,887 people and 24,532 households residing in the city. The racial makeup of the city was 93.4% White, 1.4% African American, 0.1% Native American, 2.3% Asian, 0.6% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.8% of the population.

There were 24,532 households, of which 27.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them. The average household size was 2.61.

Regarding household income, the median household income was $89,484 while per capita income was $41,784. Poverty affected 4.6% of families.

2010 census
As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 45,582 people, 17,433 households, and 12,087 families residing in the city. The population density was 1554.1 PD/sqmi. There were 18,339 housing units at an average density of 625.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.7% White, 1.2% African American, 0.1% Native American, 2.0% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.6% 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 17,433 households, of which 38.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.9% were married couples living together, 7.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.7% were non-families. 22.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.08.

The median age in the city was 31.9 years. 27.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 33.7% were from 25 to 44; 21.1% were from 45 to 64; and 8.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.0% male and 51.0% female.

Regarding household income, the median income was $51,914 while average income was $70,883. Family income had a median of $62,982 and average of $82,446. Among full-time, year-round workers, the median earnings were $46,478 for men and $36,040 for women. Poverty affecting families was present at a 10.1% general rate with a 28.9% rate of families run by single mothers. Poverty affected 13.8% of inhabitants, 19.2% of minor inhabitants, and 12.1% of those 18 years old and older.

2014 special census
In 2014, a special census was performed by decision of the city, on which it spent $825,000. This census was completed on December 12, 2014, and listed a new official population count of 54,598 inhabitants and 21,918 households, an increase of 19.7% and 25.7%, respectively, to the 2010 decennial census. Documenting the increased population numbers allowed the city to accrue an estimated $4.5 million more in allocated state funding for road construction and repairs.

Economy

The Ankeny city government's fiscal year 2020 budget listed total property values of $779 million in commercial, $177 million in industrial, $56 million in utilities, $113 million in multi-residential, and $4.64 billion in residential property. The median home value is $197,500. In 2018, the budget reads, Ankeny "saw one of its best years for construction activity" with commercial construction valued $71 million and residential construction valued $173 million. The number of businesses in Ankeny for the year totaled 5,089 with $972 million in taxable retail sales.

The largest businesses by highest taxable valuation are as follows: Deere & Company ($42.6 million), DRA Properties, LC ($36 million), Mid-American Energy ($27.4 million), DLE Seven, LLC ($24 million), Casey's General Stores ($23.3 million), Hurd Fleet, LLC ($21.7 million), Denny Elwell Family, LC ($20.8 million), B&G Foods North America ($19.9 million), Woodland Reserve Apartments, LC ($19.9 million), and Perishable Distributors of Iowa, Ltd. (a Hy-Vee subsidiary) ($17.3 million).

The largest employers by number of employees are as follows: Ankeny Community Schools (1,965), Deere & Company (1,900), Casey's General Stores (1,260), the City of Ankeny (786), Perishable Distributors of Iowa, Ltd. (687), Des Moines Area Community College (611), Baker Group (560), Purfoods (517), B&G Foods North America (400), and Accumold (350).

Industry-wise, the largest percentages of industry occupation are as follows: education and health care services (23.34%), finance, insurance, and real estate (14.07%), retail (11.99%), professional services (9.03%), entertainment and recreation (7.81%), manufacturing (7.77%), construction (5.59%), other services (5.13%), public administration (4.81%), transportation, warehousing, and utilities (3.71%), wholesale (3.68%), agriculture (1.78%), information and data (1.29%).

The United States Census Bureau estimates that between 2013 and 2017 that 78.7% of the population 16 years old and older were part of the civilian labor force with 73.4% specifically for women.

Previously in 2012, the Census Bureau's Survey of Business Owners (SBO) reported that 4,388 businesses called Ankeny home with a total reported $8.081 billion in business and $748 million in annual payroll. Of those businesses, the reported industries were 619 construction, 143 wholesale, 547 retail, 198 transportation and warehousing, 93 data and information technology, 279 finance and insurance, 491 real estate and rental, 478 professional, scientific, and technical services, and 248 administrative, supportive, waste management, and remediation.

Parks and recreation
There was previously a YMCA in Ankeny, of the YMCA of Greater Des Moines. On March 1, 2019, that YMCA closed due to problems with funding and a decline in the number of members.

Public and private parks
Ankeny currently has "60 parks covering over 800 acres with a mixture of recreational facilities" which include athletic facilities, playgrounds, green spaces, picnic shelters, two aquatic centers, two community centers, a dog park, bandshell, skate park, disc golf course, and more. Ankeny has many trail areas in the city totaling over 100 miles of length. The city has two sports complexes. The larger Prairie Ridge Sports Complex comprises 124 acres and provides well-maintained fields for a variety of ball sports. Many public and private sports organizations and teams base themselves at the complex which serves over 6,500 youth athletes. The smaller Hawkeye Park Sports Complex features a handful of fields typically used for adult leagues and individual recreational use. In addition, the city operates Otter Creek Golf Course, a 200.6 acre facility, as a public golf venue.

The city puts on a variety of recreational programs year-round, sometimes involving school district facilities, which range from all-ages athletic teams and training, senior citizen activities, seasonal/holiday events, dances, first aid and CPR training, arts and crafts, public yoga, charter bus expeditions, and basic skills. Artistic and cultural organizations also exist within the city such as the Ankeny Area Historical Society, Ankeny Art Center, Ankeny Community Band, Ankeny Community Chorus, Ankeny Community Theatre, and Art for Ankeny.

Miracle Park, a 14000 ft2 playground, is an "all-inclusive" facility specifically designed to accommodate special needs youth. Designed in 2015, the Park adjoins the nearby Ankeny Miracle League baseball field, which provides a location for a local special needs baseball league.

In 2019, the city estimates 160,000 attendees to the two aquatic centers during the summer season, over 14,000 sports events held at the two complexes, over 36,000 participants in public programming (with about 7,600 of those in senior citizen programs), and 29,300 rounds of golf played at Otter Creek.

Government
The city code of Ankeny specifies the municipal governance is in the form of a Mayor–council government while the description in city documents describes the city as "Mayor/Council/Manager". The Mayor and City Council officers are elected for four year terms with Council terms overlapping. Any elected positions in the city fall under Chapter 376 of the Code of Iowa.

Mayor
The current Mayor of Ankeny is Mark Holm. Holm, a former City Council member, was elected in November 2021 and took office in January 2022.

The office of Mayor, as listed in the city code, acts as the city CEO and supervises the whole of city governance, representing the city, working as President of the City Council, and appointing officers and officials. The baseline mayoral salary is $10,000 yearly plus expense reimbursement. In regards to Council legislation, the Mayor may only approve, veto, or disregard, never voting on the legislation. The Mayor also appoints one of the members of the council as Mayor Pro Tem.

City council
The city council consists of five members. The current members are Bobbi Bentz (Mayor Pro Tem), Kelly Whiting, Jeff Perry, Todd Shafer, and Joe Ruddy.

The council maintains local legal, economic, civic, and public authority over the city, as well as appointing city officers. One member of the council is appointed by the Mayor as Mayor Pro-Tem whom also serves as vice-president of the council and discharges the Mayor's duties if absent or unable. Mayor veto of Council decisions can be overridden by supermajority. Councilor salaries are $7,000 yearly.

Primary and secondary
Ankeny features both public and private institutions for primary and secondary education.

Ankeny Community School District
Ankeny's public school district is the sixth largest district of its kind in the state with an approximate $190 million yearly budget. It currently educates nearly 12,000 students and employs over 1,500. It serves most of the city limits. The district encompasses sixteen school buildings and has two feeder systems with corresponding institutions. In 2013, the community school district split into the current two high school system. The district slowly split incoming students into separate systems until the full split was made in 2013. Prior to the split, Ankeny's universal mascot was the Hawk, with the Jaguar being introduced with the new secondary system based around Ankeny Centennial High School.

Other public schools
A portion of southern Ankeny on the edge of the city limits is in the Saydel Community School District.

An expanding portion of northern Ankeny, (Northgate, Northgate East, Harvest Ridge) is in the North Polk Community School District, located in Alleman.

Private
Ankeny Christian Academy (a.k.a. ACA) is a private, accredited, and non-denominational Christian school that offers both primary and secondary schooling, as well as preschool. The school was established in February 1992 and opened its doors in August 1993, moving to its current 1604 West 1st Street location in early 2000.

St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School was opened in August 2015 by the Diocese of Des Moines on the western side of the city at 1102 NW Weigel The initial school and church building had a cost of $8.2 million. Dr. The school initially housed K-3rd grade students. Each year following, a new grade is added until it serves K-8th grade students in 2020. On October 21, 2021, a groundbreaking was held for an expansion with a cost of $3.5 million, with $3.2 million paid through cash and gifts. The area Catholic high school is Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines.

Post-secondary
Ankeny hosts a variety of public and private post-secondary education institutions.

Des Moines Area Community College (a.k.a. DMACC) has been based in the city since creation of the Ankeny Campus in the summer of 1967. The Campus currently educates over 15,000 students on their 304-acre plot and offers a large variety of degree, diploma, and certificate programs. Since its inception, the college has been undergoing near-constant additions and renovations. Many other campuses exist across the state under the direction of the Ankeny Campus.
 * Public

Iowa State University formerly operated a research farm in south Ankeny. However, that land was sold off in 2005 and is now being developed as the Prairie Trail district.

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, the oldest private college in Ankeny, has been an institution in the city since 1967. Originally founded as the Omaha Bible Institute in 1921, the college changed names to the Omaha Baptist Bible College in 1960, before moving from Omaha, Nebraska to Ankeny in the summer of 1967. The graduate-level seminary was added in January 1986.
 * Private

Upper Iowa University, based in Fayette, Iowa, operates an extension facility in the city at 1535 SE Delaware Ave.

Transportation
The city of Ankeny lists, as of 2018, 543 miles of road, 369 cul-de-sacs, 6,238 street lights, and 72 traffic signals on city roadways.

Ankeny Regional Airport, a public, non-commercial airport, provides air access to Ankeny and has since 1994. The airport currently claims to be the state's third-busiest and allows corporate, individual, and freight use. It is a relief airport for Des Moines International Airport.

Des Moines Area Regional Transit (a.k.a. DART), a public transit agency, operates an express bus route between Ankeny and Des Moines. The route includes stops at DMACC's Ankeny Campus and the High Trestle Trail trailhead in the city. Additionally, the agency operates on-call shuttle services in the city as well.

Notable people

 * Dennis Albaugh (born 1949) Owner, CEO of Albaugh Inc., No. 468 on Forbes 2009 list of World's Billionaires
 * Carmine Boal (born 1956), former Republican Iowa State Representative
 * Chris Fehn (born 1972), musician and member of Slipknot, a Grammy Award-winning heavy metal band
 * Jeff Lamberti (born 1962), former Republican Iowa Senator and State Representative
 * Joel Lanning, former football linebacker and quarterback, Iowa State University alumni
 * Riley Moss, professional football cornerback for the Denver Broncos
 * Larry Noble, former Republican Iowa Senator
 * Justin Phongsavanh, F54 Paralympic javelin thrower
 * Paul Rhoads (born 1967), college football coach, head coach at Iowa State University from 2009 to 2015.
 * James Root (born 1971), musician and rhythm/lead guitarist of heavy metal band Slipknot, and the lead guitarist for the rock band Stone Sour
 * Connie Yori (born 1963), former head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers women's basketball team

title: Ankeny, Iowa