text:
Exira, Iowa

Exira is a city in Audubon County, Iowa, United States, along the East Nishnabotna River and U.S. Route 71. The population was 787 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
The oldest town in Audubon County, Exira was founded in 1857. The town was named for Exira Eckman, daughter of Judge John Eckman from Ohio, who agreed to purchase a lot of property in the town if the town was named for his daughter.

The main industries in and around Exira are agriculture and agribusiness. Exira has a school, completed in 1959. There are four churches in the town.

On July 2, 1958, Exira was ravaged by the flooding of the East Nishnabotna River. Nineteen persons in the area lost their lives, 75 homes were destroyed and almost 20 businesses in the western part of Exira were damaged.

Exira is well known for its Fourth of July celebrations, which have been celebrated since 1861. The morning parade and the evening fireworks draw thousands of visitors to the town. Other attractions in the area include the Plow in the Oak Park, south of Exira on Highway 71, and Littlefield Recreation Area, 6 mi southeast of Exira, which features a 70 acre lake, prairie restoration area and a live bison pair.

Geography
Exira is located at 41.59167°N, -94.87833°W (41.591617, -94.878247).

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 840 people, 381 households, and 217 families living in the city. The population density was 823.5 PD/sqmi. There were 422 housing units at an average density of 413.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.6% White, 0.2% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 381 households, of which 21.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.8% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.0% were non-families. 38.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.06 and the average family size was 2.63.

The median age in the city was 49.7 years. 16.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.4% were from 25 to 44; 27.8% were from 45 to 64; and 29.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 43.1% male and 56.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 810 people, 362 households, and 211 families living in the city. The population density was 791.0 PD/sqmi. There were 394 housing units at an average density of 384.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.64% White, 0.25% African American, 0.12% Native American, 0.49% Asian, and 0.49% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.86% of the population.

There were 362 households, out of which 24.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.2% were married couples living together, 10.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.7% were non-families. 38.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 27.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.08 and the average family size was 2.74.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 4.6% from 18 to 24, 19.0% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 33.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 73.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 69.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,319, and the median income for a family was $32,222. Males had a median income of $25,917 versus $17,656 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,124. About 9.9% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.0% of those under age 18 and 13.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is served by the Exira–Elk Horn–Kimballton Community School District. It was in the Exira Community School District until it consolidated into Exira-EHK on July 1, 2014.

Notable people

 * Ben F. Jensen (1892–1970) U.S. Representative for the former Iowa's 7th congressional district
 * Jack Pardee (1936–2013) NFL player and Head Coach

The Thomas B. Thielen Student Health Center at Iowa State University is named after former Exira resident, Thomas B. Thielen. Thielen served as vice president for student affairs at Iowa State University from 1977 to 1997.

The housing complex, Frederiksen Court, at Iowa State University is named for former Exira resident, Charles "Chuck" Frederiksen. His family moved to Exira, when he was three, where he attended and graduated from high school as valedictorian of his class. For nearly 50 years, Chuck had a distinguished career in the college and university housing profession. He became the Director of Residence in 1967 and retired in 1996. During his tenure at Iowa State, Chuck oversaw the construction, staffing and occupancy of many student housing and dining service facilities, including five residence halls and single and married family apartment complexes. Chuck received two significant recognitions during and following his retirement from ISU. The first was the establishment of the Frederiksen Leadership Award for student leaders living in university housing. The second recognition was the naming of a new housing complex, Frederiksen Court, in April 2002. Frederiksen Court currently houses more than 3,500 single undergraduate students in 29 buildings.

title: Exira, Iowa


text:
Gray, Iowa

Gray is a city in Audubon County, Iowa, United States, along the East Branch of the West Nishnabotna River. The population was 61 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Gray was laid out in 1881 by George Gray, and named for him. The Northwestern railroad was extended to the town in 1882.

Geography
Gray is located at 41.84°N, -94.9825°W (41.840074, -94.982547).

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 63 people, 28 households, and 15 families residing in the city. The population density was 63.0 PD/sqmi. There were 36 housing units at an average density of 36.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.4% White and 1.6% from two or more races.

There were 28 households, of which 21.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.9% were married couples living together, 3.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 46.4% were non-families. 39.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.3% 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 2.87.

The median age in the city was 41.3 years. 20.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 17.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.5% were from 25 to 44; 22.2% were from 45 to 64; and 22.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.0% male and 54.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 82 people, 34 households, and 24 families residing in the city. The population density was 81.9 PD/sqmi. There were 43 housing units at an average density of 43.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 34 households, out of which 23.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.7% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.5% were non-families. 26.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 18.3% from 25 to 44, 25.6% from 45 to 64, and 24.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 79.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,750, and the median income for a family was $48,750. Males had a median income of $26,875 versus $23,333 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,190. There were no families and 2.4% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 9.1% of those over 64.

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

title: Gray, Iowa


text:
Kimballton, Iowa

Kimballton is a city in Audubon County, Iowa, United States. The population was 291 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Kimballton was founded in 1883 when Hans Jensen Jorgensen opened a post office at the site. The town was officially established in 1888, and incorporated in 1908. The town is named for a railroad employee, Edward Kimball.

There are eight sites in or near Kimballton listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Kimballton is located at 41.62833°N, -95.07444°W (41.628280, -95.074492).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.77 sqmi, all of it land.

Kimballton lies 3 mi north of Elk Horn, 13 mi east of Harlan, and roughly 60 miles (roughly 95 km) east of Omaha.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 322 people, 145 households, and 95 families living in the city. The population density was 418.2 PD/sqmi. There were 157 housing units at an average density of 203.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.8% White, 0.3% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 0.6% from two or more races.

There were 145 households, of which 25.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.5% were non-families. 31.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.22 and the average family size was 2.78.

The median age in the city was 47.1 years. 21.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.7% were from 25 to 44; 31.6% were from 45 to 64; and 22% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 342 people, 151 households, and 94 families living in the city. The population density was 450.0 PD/sqmi. There were 161 housing units at an average density of 211.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.12% White, 0.29% Native American, and 0.58% from two or more races.

There were 151 households, out of which 29.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.0% were married couples living together, 2.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.1% were non-families. 35.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.9% under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 24.6% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 23.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,188, and the median income for a family was $37,125. Males had a median income of $26,932 versus $16,364 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,514. About 11.2% of families and 11.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.2% of those under age 18 and 16.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is served by the Exira–Elk Horn–Kimballton Community School District. The former Elk Horn–Kimballton Community School District consolidated effective July 1, 2014.

Culture
Kimballton has a large population of Danish ancestry. The Danish community prides itself on its customs, traditions, and ethnicity. Some local citizens still speak in Danish periodically. Also, many Danish traditions are carried on in Kimballton, such as Danish folk dancing. The Kimballton Danes have long enjoyed performing their authentic Danish folk dances for large crowds. In addition, Kimballton Danes share a part of their heritage by cooking Æbleskiver, a Danish pancake, at various times of the year.

title: Kimballton, Iowa


text:
Atkins, Iowa

Atkins is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,056 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Atkins was founded in 1881, following construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad through the territory. It was named for a railroad official.

Geography
Atkins is located approximately 10 miles (16 km) west of downtown Cedar Rapids.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.09 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,670 people, 592 households, and 480 families living in the city. The population density was 1532.1 PD/sqmi. There were 610 housing units at an average density of 559.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.9% White, 0.1% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.7% of the population.

There were 592 households, of which 45.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 72.8% were married couples living together, 4.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 18.9% were non-families. 14.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.82 and the average family size was 3.14.

The median age in the city was 35.7 years. 31.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30.5% were from 25 to 44; 23.1% were from 45 to 64; and 9.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.0% male and 49.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 977 people, 361 households, and 275 families living in the city. The population density was 1,197.6 PD/sqmi. There were 369 housing units at an average density of 452.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.69% White, 0.10% Native American, and 0.20% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.82% of the population.

There were 361 households, out of which 42.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.1% were married couples living together, 5.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.8% were non-families. 20.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.13.

31.3% were under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 34.2% from 25 to 44, 17.7% from 45 to 64, and 11.1% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $50,833, and the median income for a family was $58,375. Males had a median income of $40,950 versus $26,719 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,507. About 1.7% of families and 3.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.0% of those under age 18 and 3.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Benton Community School District operates local public schools.

title: Atkins, Iowa


text:
Belle Plaine, Iowa

Belle Plaine is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,330 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Belle Plaine was founded in 1862 when it was certain the railroad would be extended to that point. "Belle Plaine" is derived from the French meaning "beautiful plain".

Belle Plaine is located on both the historic Lincoln Highway and the cross country tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.23 sqmi, of which 3.22 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

The Iowa River flows roughly southeastward, just south of the city airport.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,534 people, 1,101 households, and 659 families living in the city. The population density was 787.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,258 housing units at an average density of 390.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.8% White, 0.3% African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7% of the population.

There were 1,101 households, of which 27.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.9% were married couples living together, 10% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.1% were non-families. 34.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.9.

The median age in the city was 42.8 years. 23.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.5% were from 25 to 44; 28.2% were from 45 to 64; and 19.1% 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 2,878 people, 1,212 households and 749 families living in the city. The population density was 890.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,318 housing units at an average density of 407.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.92% White, 0.07% African American, 0.03% Native American, 0.17% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.07% from other races, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.66% of the population.

There were 1,212 households, out of which 29.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.5% were married couples living together, 8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.2% were non-families. 33.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.97.

25.7% are under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 26.6% from 25 to 44, 19.6% from 45 to 64, and 20.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,316, and the median income for a family was $47,105. Males had a median income of $31,750 versus $24,966 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,321. About 3.3% of families and 7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.3% of those under age 18 and 10.6% of those age 65 or over.

Government
The current mayor of Belle Plaine is Lyle Morrow. The City Administrator is Stephen Beck. Sandy Walton is the City Clerk. April Kressley is the Parks and Recreation Director. Kris Hudson is the Police Chief. Jason Kaplan is the Fire Chief.

Education
The Belle Plaine Community School District provides education services to the Belle Plaine area. The district is one of three school districts serving Benton County. Belle Plaine High School and the junior high school are co-located. Longfellow Elementary school provides pre-K through 6th grade education.

Climate
Like most other towns in Iowa, Belle Plaine has a Dfa (hot-summer humid continental climate).

January have highs of 28 F (-2 C) and lows of 10 F (-12 C).

February have highs of 34 F (1 C) and lows of 10 F.

March have highs of 46 F (+8 C) and lows of 26 F (-3 C).

April have highs of 61 F (16 C) and lows of 38 F (3 C).

May have highs of 72 F (22 C) and lows of 49 F (9 C).

June hags highs of 81 F (27 C) and lows of 59 F (15 C).

July has highs of 85 F (29 C) and lows of 63 F (17 C).

August has highs of 83 F (28 C) and lows of 60 F (16 C).

September has highs of 76 F (24 C) and lows of 51 F (11 C).

October has highs of 63 F (17 C) and lows of 39 F (4 C).

November has highs of 47 F (+8 C) and lows of 28 F (-2 C).

December has highs of 33 F (+1 C) and lows of 16 F (-9 C).

Source: NOAA

Infrastructure
Iowa Highway 21 passes through Belle Plaine providing north to south travel from Waterloo to Hedrick and connections with both state and US east to west highways, U.S. Highway 30 north of town and Iowa Highway 212 south of town.

The railroad provides east to west freight service to the city.

The city airport is located on the south side of the town.

Notable people

 * George Alexander, 28th Mayor of Los Angeles; lived in Belle Plaine for several years.
 * Marjorie Cameron, artist, occultist, actress, and wife of rocket pioneer and occultist Jack Parsons.
 * Steve Carl, mixed martial artist.
 * William Dana Ewart, invented and patented the linked belt.
 * Tom McLaury, outlaw cowboy; grew up in Belle Plaine.
 * Earl Moran, 20th century pin-up and glamour artist was born in Belle Plaine in 1893.
 * Hap Moran, New York Giants football star, was born in Belle Plaine in 1901.
 * Lonnie Nielsen, professional golfer, was born in Belle Plaine in 1953.
 * Rod Rust, former New England Patriots Head Coach; coached Belle Plaine High School in 1954–1955
 * Henry B. Tippie (1927–2022), businessman in the NYSE Hall of Fame, was born Belle Plaine
 * Frank Wearne, raced seven times in the Indianapolis 500

title: Belle Plaine, Iowa


text:
Blairstown, Iowa

Blairstown is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 713 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Blairstown was platted in 1862. It was named for John Insley Blair, a railroad official.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.52 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 692 people, 295 households, and 199 families living in the city. The population density was 1330.8 PD/sqmi. There were 314 housing units at an average density of 603.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.8% White, 0.7% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 1.0% from other races, and 0.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.3% of the population.

There were 295 households, of which 33.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.2% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.5% were non-families. 28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.79.

The median age in the city was 39 years. 25.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.6% were from 25 to 44; 24.7% were from 45 to 64; and 17.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.1% male and 49.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 682 people, 289 households, and 195 families living in the city. The population density was 1,434.7 PD/sqmi. There were 309 housing units at an average density of 650.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.41% White, 0.15% from other races, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.29% of the population.

There were 289 households, out of which 30.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.4% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.2% were non-families. 28.7% 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 2.36 and the average family size was 2.87.

24.8% are under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 19.2% from 45 to 64, and 22.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $40,662, and the median income for a family was $47,778. Males had a median income of $36,705 versus $22,083 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,828. About 5.9% of families and 11.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.5% of those under age 18 and 11.6% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Blairstown holds an annual "Sauerkraut Days" celebration.

Rolle Bolle

Many Blairstown residents still play the Belgian yard game Rolle Bolle (called krulbollen in Belgium), first brought to the region by Belgian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Blairstown's courts are located in the Blairstown Ball Park. A game of Rolle Bolle is part of the annual Sauerkraut Days celebration. Rolle Bolle is also played in the nearby towns of Belle Plaine, Clutier, Victor, Marengo, and Ladora.

Education
Benton Community School District operates local public schools.

title: Blairstown, Iowa


text:
Garrison, Iowa

Garrison is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 344 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

It was named for the farmer, Nelson Garrison, who had the post office in his home west of town. He owned the property.(1872).

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.25 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 371 people, 145 households, and 99 families living in the city. The population density was 1484.0 PD/sqmi. There were 166 housing units at an average density of 664.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.2% White, 1.1% African American, 0.3% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.6% of the population.

There were 145 households, of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.3% were married couples living together, 11.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.7% were non-families. 22.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 40.3 years. 24.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.3% were from 25 to 44; 29.1% were from 45 to 64; and 13.5% 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 413 people, 159 households, and 113 families living in the city. The population density was 1,673.3 PD/sqmi. There were 177 housing units at an average density of 717.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.82% White, 0.24% African American, 0.73% Asian, 0.24% from other races, and 0.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.69% of the population.

There were 159 households, out of which 32.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.5% were married couples living together, 11.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.9% were non-families. 25.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.60 and the average family size was 3.16.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 28.6% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $187,485, and the median income for a family was $215,983. Males had a median income of $205,423 versus $164,824 for females. The per capita income for the city was $126,857. About 10.5% of families and 13.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.2% of those under age 18 and 16.7% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
The Old Creamery Theatre Company is a not-for-profit professional theatre founded in 1971 in Garrison. Ten theatre colleagues formed the company in a vacant building that had once served the community of Garrison as a co-op dairy.

Education
The Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District operates public schools. The district was established on July 1, 1993 by the merger of the Vinton Community School District and the Shellsburg Community School District. The city was served by the Garrison school district until July 1, 1969, when it merged into the Vinton school district.

title: Garrison, Iowa


text:
Keystone, Iowa

Keystone is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 599 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Keystone was platted in 1881 when the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad was extended to that point.

Geography
Keystone is located at 42.00092°N, -92.19854°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.45 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 622 people, 250 households, and 165 families living in the city. The population density was 1382.2 PD/sqmi. There were 280 housing units at an average density of 622.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.2% White, 0.5% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6% of the population.

There were 250 households, of which 30.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.2% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.0% were non-families. 32.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.93.

The median age in the city was 42.8 years. 24% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23% were from 25 to 44; 22.7% were from 45 to 64; and 24.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 45.0% male and 55.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 687 people, 273 households, and 174 families living in the city. The population density was 1,855.3 PD/sqmi. There were 281 housing units at an average density of 758.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.42% White, 0.15% African American, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.29% of the population.

There were 273 households, out of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.3% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 32.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 23.6% from 25 to 44, 15.4% from 45 to 64, and 28.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,458, and the median income for a family was $48,750. Males had a median income of $33,333 versus $19,375 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,215. About 1.7% of families and 2.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.4% of those under age 18 and 1.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Benton Community School District operates local public schools.

Notable people

 * Tim Kapucian (born 1967), Iowa State Senator from the 20th District
 * Monte Merkel (1916–1981), American football player
 * Miss Piggy (1974), Muppet

title: Keystone, Iowa


text:
Luzerne, Iowa

Luzerne is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 112 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Luzerne was founded following construction of the Chicago and Northwestern Railway through the territory. Luzerne was platted as a town on the railroad in 1868. It was named after the city of Lucerne, in Switzerland.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.12 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 96 people, 34 households, and 26 families living in the city. The population density was 800.0 PD/sqmi. There were 38 housing units at an average density of 316.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 91.7% White, 2.1% African American, 4.2% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.2% of the population.

There were 34 households, of which 47.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 20.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 23.5% were non-families. 20.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.82 and the average family size was 3.08.

The median age in the city was 28.5 years. 32.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25% were from 25 to 44; 25% were from 45 to 64; and 8.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 53.1% male and 46.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 105 people, 37 households, and 31 families living in the city. The population density was 834.5 PD/sqmi. There were 39 housing units at an average density of 310.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 37 households, out of which 54.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.3% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.2% were non-families. 13.5% 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 2.84 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 33.3% under the age of 18, 4.8% from 18 to 24, 31.4% from 25 to 44, 14.3% from 45 to 64, and 16.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,750, and the median income for a family was $34,688. Males had a median income of $30,833 versus $28,333 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,747. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

title: Luzerne, Iowa


text:
Mount Auburn, Iowa

Mount Auburn is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 162 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Mount Auburn was platted in 1871 when the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Minnesota Railway was extended to that point.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.28 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 150 people, 64 households, and 44 families living in the city. The population density was 535.7 PD/sqmi. There were 68 housing units at an average density of 242.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.0% White, 1.3% Native American, and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.7% of the population.

There were 64 households, of which 31.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.9% were married couples living together, 4.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.3% were non-families. 26.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.89.

The median age in the city was 35 years. 24% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22% were from 25 to 44; 28.7% were from 45 to 64; and 16% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 54.0% male and 46.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 160 people, 62 households, and 46 families living in the city. The population density was 598.5 PD/sqmi. There were 64 housing units at an average density of 239.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 91.88% White, 3.12% Native American, 1.25% Asian, and 3.75% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.62% of the population.

There were 62 households, out of which 32.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.7% were married couples living together, 3.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.8% were non-families. 21.0% 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 2.58 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $39,250, and the median income for a family was $41,786. Males had a median income of $27,083 versus $22,917 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,909. None of the population or families were below the poverty line.

Education
Union Community School District serves the municipality. The district was established on July 1, 1993 by the merger of the La Porte City Community School District and the Dysart-Geneseo Community School District.

title: Mount Auburn, Iowa


text:
Newhall, Iowa

Newhall is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 876 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Newhall was founded in 1881, following construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad through the territory.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.32 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 875 people, 353 households, and 254 families living in the city. The population density was 2734.4 PD/sqmi. There were 376 housing units at an average density of 1175.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.3% White, 1.0% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 353 households, of which 33.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.6% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 28.0% were non-families. 25.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% 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 2.98.

The median age in the city was 39.7 years. 25.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.6% were from 25 to 44; 25.5% were from 45 to 64; and 17.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 886 people, 360 households, and 245 families living in the city. The population density was 2,966.2 PD/sqmi. There were 368 housing units at an average density of 1,232.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.68% of the population.

There were 360 households, out of which 33.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.1% were married couples living together, 4.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.9% were non-families. 27.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.5% 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 3.02.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 27.2% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 26.2% from 25 to 44, 18.7% from 45 to 64, and 21.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $43,269, and the median income for a family was $51,250. Males had a median income of $35,250 versus $29,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,124. About 0.8% of families and 2.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 2.1% of those age 65 over.

Education
Benton Community School District operates local public schools.

title: Newhall, Iowa


text:
Norway, Iowa

Norway is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 466 at the time of the 2020 census. The city is approximately 17 mi southwest of downtown Cedar Rapids. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area. Norway is the setting of the movie The Final Season.

History
Norway was platted in 1863 by Osman Tuttle (born Osmund Endreson Totland in Hjelmeland, Norway) two years after the Chicago and Northwestern Railway had reached this part of the county. Tuttle donated five acres of ground to the railway company with the condition that the new town should bear the name of his native country. During 1864, Tuttle laid out the town site north of the railway truck, which he had recorded as Norway.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.45 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 545 people, 243 households, and 146 families living in the city. The population density was 1211.1 PD/sqmi. There were 256 housing units at an average density of 568.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.0% White, 0.6% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.4% of the population.

There were 243 households, of which 26.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.7% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.9% were non-families. 36.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.92.

The median age in the city was 41.2 years. 23.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.6% were from 25 to 44; 26.8% were from 45 to 64; and 19.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.9% male and 50.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 601 people, 241 households, and 173 families living in the city. The population density was 1,320.9 PD/sqmi. There were 247 housing units at an average density of 542.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.00% White, 0.50% African American, 0.50% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.17% of the population.

There were 241 households, out of which 32.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.2% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.2% were non-families. 25.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.01.

26.1% are under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $44,018, and the median income for a family was $50,278. Males had a median income of $36,103 versus $20,917 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,300. About 4.3% of families and 5.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.6% of those under age 18 and 5.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Students from Norway attend the Benton Community School District.

Prior to 1991, students attended Norway High School, notable for its baseball athletic program (the subject of the feature film The Final Season). The Norway school district merged into the Benton district on July 1, 1995.

Infrastructure
The Union Pacific Railroad runs on the edge of town.

Notable people

 * Mike Boddicker - Former MLB player
 * Bruce Kimm - Former MLB player, coach, and manager
 * Hal Trosky - Former MLB player

title: Norway, Iowa


text:
Shellsburg, Iowa

Shellsburg is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 961 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Shellsburg was founded in 1854.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.77 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 983 people, 428 households, and 276 families living in the city. The population density was 1276.6 PD/sqmi. There were 455 housing units at an average density of 590.9 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 96.7% White, 0.7% African American, 1.0% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.5%.

Of the 428 households 27.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.9% were married couples living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.5% were non-families. 30.1% of households were one person and 15.4% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.74.

The median age was 44.6 years. 20.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 30.1% were from 45 to 64; and 19.3% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.5% male and 51.5% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 938 people, 356 households, and 260 families living in the city. The population density was 1,302.8 PD/sqmi. There were 370 housing units at an average density of 513.9 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 99.04% White, 0.32% Native American, 0.32% Asian, and 0.32% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.43%.

Of the 356 households 36.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.5% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.7% were non-families. 21.9% of households were one person and 8.4% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.00.

The age distribution was 27.5% under the age of 18, 5.0% from 18 to 24, 33.6% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% 65 or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.1 males.

The median household income was $41,912 and the median family income was $49,219. Males had a median income of $36,176 versus $24,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,352. About 8.1% of families and 8.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.6% of those under age 18 and 11.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District operates public schools. The district was established on July 1, 1993 by the merger of the Vinton Community School District and the Shellsburg Community School District.

Media
In June 2006, Shellsburg became one of several locations used to film the movie The Final Season, a story that follows the success of a small town school baseball team before consolidating with a neighboring school district. Portions of downtown Shellsburg were used to portray the nearby town of Norway, in which the movie is based.

title: Shellsburg, Iowa


text:
Urbana, Iowa

Urbana is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,554 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Urbana (previously known as Hoosier Point and Marysville) was laid out in 1847.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.20 sqmi, all land.

Urbana is roughly midway between Cedar Rapids and Waterloo. Interstate 380 and Iowa Highway 150 intersect here.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,458 people, 520 households, and 412 families living in the city. The population density was 662.7 PD/sqmi. There were 543 housing units at an average density of 246.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.5% White, 0.3% African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 520 households, of which 48.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 20.8% were non-families. 15.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80, and the average family size was 3.14.

The median age in the city was 32.1 years. 32.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 35% were from 25 to 44; 19.6% were from 45 to 64; and 7.6% 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 1,019 people, 372 households, and 284 families living in the city. The population density was 1,512.5 PD/sqmi. There were 384 housing units at an average density of 570.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.61% White, 0.29% African American and 0.10% Native American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.59% of the population.

There were 372 households, out of which 43.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.9% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.4% were non-families. 18.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.74, and the average family size was 3.13.

30.5% were under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 38.0% from 25 to 44, 13.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.3% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $49,063, and the median income for a family was $54,327. Males had a median income of $35,682 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,005. About 0.7% of families and 1.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 5.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Urbana is within the Center Point–Urbana Community School District. The district formed on July 1, 1993, with the merger of the Center Point and Urbana districts.

Notable person

 * Cal Eldred, MLB pitcher

title: Urbana, Iowa


text:
Van Horne, Iowa

Van Horne is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 774 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
It was named for William Cornelius Van Horne, a railroad official.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.63 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 682 people, 297 households, and 198 families living in the city. The population density was 1082.5 PD/sqmi. There were 322 housing units at an average density of 511.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.0% White, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 297 households, of which 32.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.2% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.3% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the city was 39.5 years. 25.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.9% were from 25 to 44; 27.1% were from 45 to 64; and 16.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 716 people, 286 households, and 195 families living in the city. The population density was 1,008.2 PD/sqmi. There were 305 housing units at an average density of 429.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.21% White, 0.84% African American, 0.98% Native American, 0.42% Asian, and 0.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.56% of the population.

There were 286 households, out of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.8% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.5% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 28.5% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 28.5% from 25 to 44, 18.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $45,000, and the median income for a family was $49,261. Males had a median income of $30,550 versus $23,092 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,439. None of the families and 2.9% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 6.7% of those over 64.

Education
Benton Community School District operates local public schools.

title: Van Horne, Iowa


text:
Vinton, Iowa

Vinton is a city in Benton County, Iowa, United States. The population was 4,938 in the 2020 census, a decrease from 5,102 in 2000. It is also part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area. Vinton is the county seat of Benton County.

History
Vinton was founded in 1849. It was named for Hon. Plynn Vinton, a state legislator. The first railroad line was extended to Vinton in 1869, and it was incorporated as a city that same year.

Public Library controversy
In 2022, the library in Vinton closed for a short period of time after employees quit for political reasons following complaints and allegations by patrons that included: the head librarian's "hiring and support for LGBTQ+ staff"; books by Jill Biden and Kamala Harris, and none about Donald Trump; "LGBTQ-themed book displays in the children’s section"; and male staff members "wearing dresses". One of the library's former directors said they had 173 books about Christian life, and seven books about "LGBT, gay or transgender" topics; another former director said some patrons "would check out the books and not return them", rather than file written complaints about the books.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.83 sqmi, of which 4.74 sqmi is land and 0.09 sqmi is water.

Vinton is located on U.S. Route 218 and the Cedar River, which has flooded parts of the city, most recently in 2008. The town's extensive tree cover was damaged by a derecho (straight line windstorm) on July 11, 2011.

Climate
This region experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations, going from warm summers to very cold winters. There is precipitation year-round, and snowfall occurs in almost all years. Most summer rainfall occurs during thunderstorms and a very occasional tropical system. This area is classified as humid because it is not dry enough to be classified as semi-arid or arid.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 5,257 people, 2,187 households, and 1,397 families residing in the city. The population density was 1109.1 PD/sqmi. There were 2,299 housing units at an average density of 485.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.8% White, 0.3% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 2,187 households, of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.9% were married couples living together, 11.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.1% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.91.

The median age in the city was 40.3 years. 24.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.1% were from 25 to 44; 24.5% were from 45 to 64; and 19.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.3% male and 52.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,102 people, 2,116 households, and 1,390 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,187.7 PD/sqmi. There were 2,227 housing units at an average density of 518.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.26% White, 0.25% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.27% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.22% from other races, and 0.80% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.94% of the population.

There were 2,116 households, out of which 30.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.8% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.3% were non-families. 29.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.91.

25.0% are under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 27.3% from 25 to 44, 19.5% from 45 to 64, and 20.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,114, and the median income for a family was $41,546. Males had a median income of $32,460 versus $19,988 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,808. About 9.5% of families and 9.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.7% of those under age 18 and 6.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District operates public schools. The district was established on July 1, 1993, by the merger of the Vinton Community School District and the Shellsburg Community School District.

Vinton was the home of the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School, Iowa's state educational institution for vision-impaired students.

Residing in the Braille School since 2008 is the North Central Region headquarters for AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC).

Media
Portions of downtown Vinton, along with the Benton County courthouse, were featured in the 1996 John Travolta film Michael. Also seen during the movie's opening credits was Prairie Creek Church, a rural area Christian church located approximately six miles northeast of the city.

Portions of downtown Vinton were used in the movie "The Final Season".

Notable people

 * Desi Druschel, baseball coach, graduated from Vinton's high school and began his coaching career in Vinton.
 * James Lorraine Geddes (1827–1887) A native of Scotland he moved to Vinton before the American Civil War where he joined as a private but rose in rank to brigadier general and later became Superintendent of the Iowa Institution for the Education of the Blind from 1867 to 1869.
 * Mary E. Holland (1868–1915) A detective and fingerprint expert; She was born in Vinton.
 * Mary Ingalls (1865–1928) was a student at the Iowa College for the Blind (now the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School) in the early 1880s. The town is often mentioned in connection with the writings of her sister Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of Little House on the Prairie.
 * Seaman A. Knapp (1833–1911), whose farming experiments led to the formation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Cooperative Extension System, claimed Vinton, Iowa, as his hometown and named Vinton, Louisiana, after it.
 * Bing Miller (1894-1966) was a professional baseball player and coach for the Philadelphia Athletics; his walk-off hit won the final game of the 1929 World Series against the Chicago Cubs. He was born in Vinton.
 * Sally Pederson (1951- ), who was the 45th lieutenant governor of Iowa, graduated from Washington High School in Vinton.
 * Cato Sells (1859–1948) The Commissioner at the Bureau of Indian Affairs from 1913 to 1921 was born in Vinton.
 * Buren R. Sherman (1836–1904) who would later become the 12th governor of Iowa, was a resident of Vinton from 1863 to 1866, during which he served as county judge for Benton County. His gravesite is in Vinton, in Evergreen Cemetery.
 * Calvin Pearl Titus (September 22, 1879 – May 27, 1966), a soldier of the U.S. Army, was the last American standard-bearer. He received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Peking of the Boxer Rebellion. He was born in Vinton.
 * Everett Warner (1877–1963) was an artist born in Vinton who became a leading contributor to US naval camouflage during both World Wars.

title: Vinton, Iowa


text:
Walford, Iowa

Walford is a city in Benton and Linn counties in the U.S. state of Iowa. The population was 1,366 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Walford was originally called Terry, and under the latter name was laid out in the year 1884 when the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad was extended to that point. In 1889, the town's name was changed to Walford, primarily at the behest of the U.S. Postal Service due to the similarity of names between Terry and Perry, Iowa. In 1897, Walford gained national attention when the general store burned down, leaving a charred corpse; since two men were missing, news stories about the identity of the corpse and the hunt for the survivor made the headlines for weeks.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.11 sqmi, all land.

Climate
This region has significant seasonal temperature differences, going from warm summers to very cold winters. There is precipitation year-round. Most summer rainfall occurs during thunderstorms and during a very occasional tropical system.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,463 people, 479 households, and 414 families living in the city. The population density was 1318.0 PD/sqmi. There were 492 housing units at an average density of 443.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.6% White, 0.1% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6% of the population.

There were 479 households, of which 52.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 75.6% were married couples living together, 7.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 13.6% were non-families. 10.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 2.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.05 and the average family size was 3.29.

The median age in the city was 35.1 years. 33.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30.4% were from 25 to 44; 25.3% were from 45 to 64; and 5.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.4% male and 48.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,224 people, 389 households, and 348 families living in the city. The population density was 1,276.8 PD/sqmi. There were 399 housing units at an average density of 416.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.94% White, 0.25% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.16% Asian, and 0.57% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.08% of the population.

There were 389 households, out of which 56.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 81.2% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 10.5% were non-families. 8.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.6% 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 3.35.

36.4% were under the age of 18, 5.4% from 18 to 24, 39.8% from 25 to 44, 14.1% from 45 to 64, and 4.3% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $67,833, and the median income for a family was $70,000. Males had a median income of $42,197 versus $27,188 for females. The per capita income for the city was $21,370. None of the families and 0.4% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

title: Walford, Iowa


text:
Dunkerton, Iowa

Dunkerton is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 842 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
In 1853, two brothers, James and John Dunkerton, walked from Dubuque, Iowa, to stake out a claim of land near Lester. This claim became the town known as Lesterton, and later Dunkerton. In 1854, John died and was buried in the small cemetery, which now holds four generations of Dunkertons. James remained and built up his land. On December 25, 1854, he married Christiana Hodges. At 60 years of age, James and his eldest son, sold a portion of their land to the railroad, requesting that the railroad be extended to Iowa. This act enabled the present City of Dunkerton to be established.

Attractions
The city maintains four parks, including Charma Park, Eagle Scout Park, Gazebo Park, and Carol Hauptly Memorial Park, as well as Mixdorf Nature Preserve and the Dunkerton Sportsman's Club.

The historic Dunkerton Bridge spans Crane Creek, connecting Charma Park to the city. The pedestrian bridge was built in 1909 and is still usable today.

The Dunkerton Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street replaced an earlier hand-painted billboard containing the names of Dunkerton residents who had served in the military. The new monument, built in the early 2000s, allows families to purchase a brick engraved with the name of a veteran and details of their service. As of October 2003, there were 297 such bricks.

Arts and culture
Dunkerton celebrates "Dunkerton Days" in late July, with a car show, parade, mud volleyball tournament, fishing derby, and bike races, among other activities. The highlight of Dunkerton Days is the fireworks show which brings many people from surrounding areas. Newly added to Dunkerton Days is the Rust + Dust Market, which is a flea market bringing people who like junk from all over Iowa.

Dunkerton Public Library
After many years of city planning and fundraising, the Dunkerton Public Library was rebuilt out of the flood zone and opened its doors in December, 2010. The new facility includes computers, expanded inventory, and a special children's section.

Geography
Dunkerton is located at 42.56833°N, -92.16°W (42.568329, -92.160075).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.99 sqmi, of which 0.98 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 852 people, 327 households, and 237 families residing in the city. The population density was 869.4 PD/sqmi. There were 338 housing units at an average density of 344.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.1% White, 1.1% African American, 0.7% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.6% of the population.

There were 327 households, of which 38.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.6% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.5% were non-families. 24.5% 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 2.61 and the average family size was 3.13.

The median age in the city was 35.3 years. 29.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.7% were from 25 to 44; 25.3% were from 45 to 64; and 10.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.2% male and 51.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 749 people, 269 households, and 206 families. The population density was 792.9 PD/sqmi. There were 292 housing units at an average density of 309.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.26% White, 0.13% Native American, 1.20% Asian, 1.34% Pacific Islander, 0.80% from other races, and 0.27% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.80% of the population.

There were 269 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.2% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.4% were non-families. 19.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.78 and the average family size was 3.18.

Age spread: 29.0% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 30.4% from 25 to 44, 23.4% 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 99.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $41,771, and the median income for a family was $48,229. Males had a median income of $31,083 versus $24,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,863. About 4.4% of families and 5.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.2% of those under age 18 and 3.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Dunkerton, Iowa


text:
Elk Run Heights, Iowa

Elk Run Heights is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,069 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Elk Run Heights was established in 1951.

Geography
Elk Run Heights is located at 42.46861°N, -92.25722°W (42.468587, -92.257290).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.06 sqmi, all land.

Elk Run Heights is a suburb of Waterloo.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,117 people, 461 households, and 337 families living in the city. The population density was 1053.8 PD/sqmi. There were 465 housing units at an average density of 438.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.6% White, 1.7% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.5% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.5% of the population.

There were 461 households, of which 27.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.6% were married couples living together, 9.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.9% were non-families. 21.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 2.79.

The median age in the city was 44.1 years. 19.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23% were from 25 to 44; 33.2% were from 45 to 64; and 15.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.9% male and 50.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,052 people, 394 households, and 325 families living in the city. The population density was 1,060.1 PD/sqmi. There were 397 housing units at an average density of 400.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.53% White, 0.67% African American, 0.10% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 0.29% from other races, and 1.33% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.00% of the population.

There were 394 households, out of which 37.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 69.5% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 17.3% were non-families. 13.2% 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 2.67 and the average family size was 2.92.

Age spread: 25.8% under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 24.0% from 45 to 64, and 14.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $45,179, and the median income for a family was $48,906. Males had a median income of $34,444 versus $25,000 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,129. About 1.0% of families and 1.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.1% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

Education
The Waterloo Community School District serves the community.

title: Elk Run Heights, Iowa


text:
Evansdale, Iowa

Evansdale is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 4,561 in the 2020 census, an increase from 4,526 in 2000. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Evansdale's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 42.467837, -92.282105.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.12 sqmi, of which 4.05 sqmi is land and 0.07 sqmi is water.

Evansdale is a border to border suburb of Waterloo.

History
Evansdale began its existence in 1947, when the residents of the Home Acres and River Forest Area adjoining the east city limits of Waterloo and confronted with a common drainage problem, formed the Home Acres Improvement Association. In August of that year the Association petitioned for articles of incorporation as a town and presented their documents to District Judge William T. Evans through Parkersburg attorney Dale Van Eman, hence Evansdale. The poll resulted in a 205-106 favorable count to incorporate. The history of growth in the area can be timed back to the turn of the century. Situated in East Waterloo Township, Evansdale evolved from several different sections that were developed. Around the turn of the century, William T. Evans owned a farm just south of Watermelon Avenue in what is approximately the present route of Highway 20. Lafayette Road, an extension of Lafayette Street from Waterloo, cut through the Evans' farm. Just east of Evans' farm was a farm owned by Julia B. Richards. The County School #1 sat on the corner of Richards' property in what eventually became known as Evans Crossing. This was the first of the sections which later became Evansdale.

Other large farmers in the area at the time were: Mary C. Crumrine, Jacob Griffith, Samuel R. White, C.C. Wolf, Hugh Newell, Lore Alford, James Gardner, George Shirley, J.H. Johnston, August Westendorf, Frederick Timmermann and Carl Bunger. Another section of land was made up in part by the land owned by C.C. Wolf. The land was located between what is now Grand Blvd. and the present site of Evans Road. In the early 1900s Wolf built the Elk Run Hotel to be used as a summer resort. The hotel had a large ballroom and dining room and was well known by the residents of northeast Iowa. Commuter trains of the Illinois Central railroad brought weekend visitors to the resort, which faced the Cedar River. At that time, Wolf, who was originally from Parkersburg, began to plat lots in the area. However, his hotel business failed, and in 1928 William Fox formed the Home Acres Land Association and developed the land formerly owned by Wolf and some additional land in Evansdale. Mr. Fox operated an insurance agency in Evansdale for many years. The Home Acres Land Association was originally headquartered in the Elk Run Hotel. A third section, which was developed prior to the land development by Fox was Casebeer Heights. Lore Alford, a prominent Waterloo lawyer owned the land at the turn of the century. He sold the property to Jack Casebeer, a Waterloo restaurant owner. Casebeer developed the land as a summer resort. Other sections of Evansdale were developed just prior to 1941 but it was the building boom following the War that created the problems that precipitated the incorporation of the city. Shortly thereafter on November 1, 1947, one-hundred and ten voters turned out to elect the only ticket on the ballot at that time with William Wiltfang as mayor. The first council meeting was conducted November 24, 1947, in an abandoned chicken house owned by Councilman Boelman. Since that time, Evansdale's growth has been steady but complicated. With the growth of the city the installation of sewers and water lines were necessary to keep pace with the needs of the community. Progress was complicated by the introduction of the Urban Renewal program in 1969. However, the program provided for a fresh start for the city with new housing and renovation to give Evansdale a new look.

Government
Evansdale is administered by a five-member city council and a mayor. One council member is elected from each of Evansdale's four wards, and one is elected at-large. The current mayor is Doug Faas. Who has served as a former Evansdale City Council member, and also previously served as a board member on the Waterloo Community School Board. His predecessor was Chad Deutsch. Deutsch was elected in 2007 after unsuccessful attempts in 2001 and 2005 to unseat former Mayor John Mardis, and served three terms as Mayor.

John Mardis served eight consecutive terms as mayor, which made him the longest serving Evansdale Mayor. In 2007 the city had a budget of $3.8 million and a tax rate of $6.75 per $1000 of taxable property valuation. A new community response center was built to house the police and fire rescue, who were outgrowing their respective areas.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 4,751 people, 1,987 households, and 1,316 families residing in the city. The population density was 1173.1 PD/sqmi. There were 2,048 housing units at an average density of 505.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.8% White, 1.7% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7% of the population.

There were 1,987 households, of which 31.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.1% were married couples living together, 12.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.8% were non-families. 26.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.87.

The median age in the city was 38 years. 23.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.2% were from 25 to 44; 27.9% were from 45 to 64; and 13.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.9% male and 51.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,526 people, 1,822 households, and 1,260 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,075.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,871 housing units at an average density of 444.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.44% White, 0.77% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.55% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 0.33% from other races, and 1.66% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.93% of the population.

There were 1,822 households, out of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.1% were married couples living together, 12.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.8% were non-families. 26.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% 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 2.95.

Age spread: 25.5% under the age of 18, 10.2% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 24.4% from 45 to 64, and 13.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,160, and the median income for a family was $37,418. Males had a median income of $29,847 versus $20,434 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,363. About 10.2% of families and 12.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.5% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.

Parks and recreation
Located in Evansdale is a trailhead for the Cedar Valley Nature Trail.

Education
Evansdale children attend the Waterloo Community School District.

Schools in Evansdale:
 * Bunger Middle School
 * Poyner Elementary School - Located on the site of the former St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

title: Evansdale, Iowa


text:
Gilbertville, Iowa

Gilbertville is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 794 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Gilbertville was platted in 1856.

Geography
Gilbertville is located at 42.41722°N, -92.21389°W (42.417252, -92.213964).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.40 sqmi, all land.

Tornado activity

Gilbertville-area historical tornado activity is above Iowa state average. It is 206% greater than the overall U.S. average.

On May 15, 1968, an F5 (max. wind speeds 261-318 mph) tornado 22.7 miles away from the Gilbertville city center killed 5 people and injured 156 people and caused between $5,000,000 and $50,000,000 in damages.

On August 26, 1965, an F4 (max. wind speeds 207-260 mph) tornado 8.1 miles away from the city center killed one person and injured 17 people and caused between $500,000 and $5,000,000 in damages.

Education
Gilbertville is within the Waterloo Community School District.

Private high school
 * Don Bosco High School

Private elementary/middle school
 * Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 712 people, 303 households, and 199 families living in the city. The population density was 1780.0 PD/sqmi. There were 313 housing units at an average density of 782.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.6% White, 0.1% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7% of the population.

There were 303 households, of which 28.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.3% were non-families. 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.87.

The median age in the city was 42.7 years. 21.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23% were from 25 to 44; 26.6% were from 45 to 64; and 19.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.4% male and 50.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 767 people, 297 households, and 212 families living in the city. The population density was 1,957.8 PD/sqmi. There were 305 housing units at an average density of 778.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.48% White, 0.13% African American, and 0.39% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.78% of the population.

There were 297 households, out of which 35.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.3% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.6% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% 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 3.14.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 27.1% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 28.4% from 25 to 44, 19.6% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $41,490, and the median income for a family was $47,917. Males had a median income of $31,458 versus $24,286 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,367. About 4.0% of families and 4.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.9% of those under age 18 and 7.6% of those age 65 or over.

In popular culture
Irish-English singer-songwriter, Gilbert O'Sullivan named his 2011 album Gilbertville after Gilbertville. The album cover features Exit 66 on Highway 380, which is the halfway point between Raymond (his real name) and Gilbertville.

title: Gilbertville, Iowa


text:
Hudson, Iowa

Hudson is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 2,546 at the time of the 2020 census. The rural community of Hudson has grown in recent years and is included as a part of the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Hudson was platted in 1857.

Geography
Hudson is located at 42.40889°N, -92.45222°W (42.408794, -92.452111).

U.S. Route 63 and Iowa Highway 58 meet just south of Hudson's center. U.S. Route 20 follows a path north of the town.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.47 sqmi, of which 8.40 sqmi is land and 0.07 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,282 people, 878 households, and 688 families living in the city. The population density was 271.7 PD/sqmi. There were 931 housing units at an average density of 110.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.1% White, 0.3% African American, 0.5% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.6% of the population.

There were 878 households, of which 35.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.2% were married couples living together, 6.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 21.6% were non-families. 18.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.60 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age in the city was 41.7 years. 26.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 14.4% 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 2,117 people, 787 households, and 613 families living in the city. The population density was 274.9 PD/sqmi. There were 815 housing units at an average density of 105.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.49% White, 0.19% African American, 0.43% Asian, 0.66% from other races, and 0.24% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.71% of the population.

There were 787 households, out of which 39.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 69.6% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.1% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% 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 3.10.

Age spread: 28.9% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 26.6% from 25 to 44, 26.2% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $56,065, and the median income for a family was $64,737. Males had a median income of $41,576 versus $26,667 for females. The per capita income for the city was $24,101. About 1.9% of families and 3.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.1% of those under age 18 and 3.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Hudson, Iowa


text:
Janesville, Iowa

Janesville is a city in Black Hawk and Bremer counties in the U.S. state of Iowa. The population was 1034 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Janesville was founded in 1849 by John T. Barrick, a Quaker and abolitionist who had relocated to Iowa from Ohio. According to the book, "The Janesvillians, Volumes I and II" by Maxine Leonard, John T. Barrick built the first mill and frame house in the area. He platted the town of Janesville, which he named in honor of his wife, Jane McPherson Barrick.

Janesville was a farming community with a population of 311 in 1900, according to the Iowa Data Center. The town's population increased to just 445 by 1950. Due to its proximity to Waterloo-Cedar Falls, the population of Janesville increased to 840 by 1980, when the town was referred to as a "bedroom community". During the farm crisis and economic recession that hit Northeast Iowa in the 1980s, Janesville's population declined slightly. Since the mid-1990s, with the completion of the four lane bypass U.S. Highway 218 / Iowa Highway 27, known as the "Avenue of the Saints", Janesville's population is again increasing. New residential subdivisions continue to develop within the city of Janesville and the surrounding area.

Geography
Janesville is located at 42.64611°N, -92.46278°W (42.646008, -92.462663). The city is located on the county line between Bremer and Black Hawk counties, and is bisected by the Cedar River.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.49 sqmi, of which 1.44 sqmi is land and 0.05 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 930 people, 398 households, and 262 families residing in the city. The population density was 645.8 PD/sqmi. There were 409 housing units at an average density of 284.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.4% White, 0.6% African American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.3% of the population.

There were 398 households, of which 29.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.8% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.2% were non-families. 28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 40.2 years. 24.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.5% were from 25 to 44; 25.3% were from 45 to 64; and 18.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.6% male and 50.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 829 people, 349 households, and 246 families residing in the city. The population density was 572.5 PD/sqmi. There were 359 housing units at an average density of 247.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.16% White, 0.36% Asian, and 0.48% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.24% of the population.

There were 349 households, out of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.2% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.5% were non-families. 25.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.83.

22.7% are under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 30.2% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $40,060, and the median income for a family was $47,143. Males had a median income of $31,488 versus $21,481 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,878. About 2.5% of families and 3.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.2% of those under age 18 and 6.7% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
The Janesville Public Library was created in 1962 with the inspiration of Clark Corwin with help from Hattie Zo Shoesmith and Margaret Theis. The library started as an all volunteer and all donated materials library in a room located in the city hall. Arlene Warm volunteered her services as a librarian. In the late 1960s, the city council authorized a 200 dollar a year grant for the library. In 1973, the library received a $10,000 (~$ in ) grant from the Kinney Lindstrom Foundation that had to be matched by the local public. These funds allowed the library to expand into a new area. the library has approximately 10,000 books, 55 magazine and newspaper subscriptions, 1,200 videos, 85 audio tapes, 6 computers for patron access, and offers audio book downloads. The library has an average of 1,000 patrons each month.
 * Janesville Public Library

Author Deb (Mather) Renner wrote a book, released December 15, 2010 and published by The Printery in Waverly, about the Riviera Ballroom that was torn down and replaced with the Riviera Roose center. Madge and Heine Kurtz opened the ballroom in 1951 and it closed in the late 1980s. Renner was a graduate of Janesville high school in 1982.
 * Riviera Ballroom

Education
Janesville and the surrounding area, including the unincorporated town of Finchford, are served by the Janesville Consolidated School District. The public school district serves approximately 335 students, pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade. Extensive renovations and an addition to the Janesville schools were completed in early 2008, funded by operating surpluses.

Students at Janesville High School can choose to take advanced courses at nearby Waverly-Shell Rock High School in Waverly, the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, and Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo. Wartburg College is located in nearby Waverly.

Notable people

 * Bill Dix, Republican, former member of Iowa Legislature, Janesville High School Class of 1981
 * Albert J. Loveland, Democrat, former U.S. Under-Secretary of Agriculture and candidate for U.S. Senate, 1950

title: Janesville, Iowa