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Grinnell, Iowa

Grinnell is a city in Poweshiek County, Iowa, United States. The population was 9,564 at the time of the 2020 census. It is best known for being the home of Grinnell College, as well as being the location of the Merchants' National Bank building, designed by famous architect Louis Sullivan.

History
Grinnell was founded by settlers from New England who were descended from English Puritans of the 1600s. Grinnell was founded in 1854 by four men: Josiah B. Grinnell, a Congregationalist from Vermont; Homer Hamlin, a minister; Henry Hamilton, a surveyor; and Dr. Thomas Holyoke. The city was to be named "Stella," but J. B. Grinnell convinced the others to adopt his name, describing it as rare and concise. Grinnell was incorporated on April 28, 1865, and by 1880, Grinnell had a population of around 2,000. Located at the junction of two railway lines (east–west line of the Rock Island Railroad and the north–south Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway), it is the largest community in Poweshiek County.

Grinnell was a stop on the Underground Railroad from its founding. One of the most famous events occurred in February 1859, when abolitionist John Brown, and 12 slaves he was helping escape to freedom, were hosted by J. B. Grinnell and several other community residents. Because of J. B. Grinnell's efforts to help slaves and end slavery, in 2013, the National Park Service included his gravesite at Hazelwood Cemetery on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom listings.

The Mormon Trail ran along the southern edge of Grinnell. The trail was traveled by an estimated 100,000 plus travelers from 1846 to 1869, including some 70,000 Mormons escaping religious persecution. The Pioneer Company of 1846–1847 established the first route; from Nauvoo, Illinois, to Salt Lake City. A stone marker memorializes the Mormon Handcart Trail and the grave of a child who died along the trail near Grinnell.

Grinnell is home to Grinnell College, a private liberal arts college, which was established in 1846.

Two major events marked the early years of the community. On June 17, 1882, a violent, estimated, F5 tornado destroyed most of the college campus and much of the community with a death toll of 68, causing up to $1.3 million in total damages (in 1882 USD). In June 1889, fire destroyed most of the downtown area.

Grinnell was home to the Spaulding Manufacturing Company. H. W. Spaulding began making carriages and spring wagons in Grinnell in 1876. In 1909, Spaulding Manufacturing added automobiles to its production line. At one time, the factory was the largest employer in the county. Automobile production ceased at the Spaulding factory in 1916 when it could no longer compete with the cheaper Ford automobile. The Spaulding factory site became home to the Spaulding Center for Transportation/Iowa Transportation Museum, as well as a 77 unit loft apartment complex which opened in 2017.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.64 sqmi, of which 5.60 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi is water.

Climate
Grinnell has a humid continental climate with hot humid summers, and cold snowy winters. The precipitation averages 38.19 in (970 mm) yearly. Summers are the rainiest times of year, with over two thirds of the precipitation falling between April and September in an average year.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 9,218 people, 3,567 households, and 2,026 families residing in the city. The population density was 1646.1 PD/sqmi. There were 3,844 housing units at an average density of 686.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 91.9% White, 2.0% African American, 0.3% Native American, 2.7% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 0.8% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 3,567 households, of which 27.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.4% were married couples living together, 10.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.2% were non-families. Of all households 36.8% were made up of individuals, and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the city was 35.6 years. 19% of residents were under the age of 18; 21.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.4% were from 25 to 44; 21.9% were from 45 to 64; and 19.1% 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 9,105 people, 3,498 households, and 2,067 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,825.7 PD/sqmi. There were 3,725 housing units at an average density of 746.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.88% White, 1.04% African American, 0.29% Native American, 2.01% Asian, 0.10% Pacific Islander, 0.37% from other races, and 1.31% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.57% of the population.

There were 3,498 households, out of which 27.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.2% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.9% were non-families. Of all households, 34.7% were made up of individuals, and 16.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.5% under the age of 18, 19.9% from 18 to 24, 22.2% from 25 to 44, 19.0% from 45 to 64, and 18.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,625, and the median income for a family was $48,991. Males had a median income of $33,956 versus $23,864 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,939. About 8.9% of families and 13.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 8.1% of those age 65 or over.

Economy
In addition to Grinnell College, other major employers include Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, Grinnell Regional Medical Center, JELD-WEN and Brownell's.

Downtown renovations
In the spring of 2005, Grinnell embarked upon a renovation project to make its downtown area more inviting. It encompassed new water mains, restoration of two-way traffic flow, brick crosswalks in the middle of each block, and more uniform parking spaces in front of downtown businesses. A median strip at each intersection was designed with Grinnell's distinctive Jewel Box pattern. Infrastructure upgrades and aesthetic renovations were also planned for the southern section of the downtown area, to include Commercial Street. Downtown street improvements have continued, and as of 2016, nearly all downtown streets have been redone. Improvements have been made to many business facades. Central Park underwent a major makeover during the summer of 2016, relocating the gazebo and adding a bandstand, public restrooms, and a large group picnic enclosure. In September 2017, Grinnell's first independently owned, boutique hotel (Hotel Grinnell) opened downtown across from Central Park giving visitors luxury accommodations.

Retirement communities
Grinnell is home to two growing retirement communities, the Mayflower community in the middle of town and Seeland Park on the eastern edge. Both communities include housing options for independent living, including duplexes and apartments, and also assisted living accommodations.

Arts

 * The Grinnell Area Arts Council (GAAC) began in 1979 and sponsors many of the creative projects in Grinnell, including various community theater plays, the community band and a summer arts camp. Each season, the GAAC offers a variety of different classes including theater classes, crafts classes, and language classes. GAAC also sponsors various events throughout the year, such as Music in the Park, a free event offered to community members. The Turlach Ur bagpipe band is also a program of GAAC. The Grinnell Arts Center is housed in the renovated old library building. It includes a gallery on the main floor and a small theater performance space on the top level.
 * The Grinnell College Museum of Art at Grinnell College showcases exhibitions of artists in a 7,400 square feet space situated in the heart of Grinnell College's Bucksbaum Center for the Arts. Exhibitions by members of the Grinnell College art faculty can be seen throughout the year, and in May, the annual Student Art Salon features student work.

Architecture
Grinnell has several notable architectural landmarks: Among them, includes the Merchants' National Bank, designed by architect Louis Sullivan in 1914. The bank is one in a series of small banks, referred to as "Jewel Boxes" designed by Sullivan in the Midwest. The Ricker House was designed by Walter Burley Griffin Marion Mahony Griffin in 1911 and completed in 1912. It was the first of seven houses the Griffins designed for Iowa clients, six of which were built and the other five of which are in Mason City. Ricker House was purchased by Grinnell College in 2000 and is operated as a short-term residence for guests of the college for several years. The house was sold in 2019 and became a private residence.

Festivals and events

Grinnell Farmers Market features locally grown produce, freshly baked goods, honey, jams, plants and flowers, and handmade crafts. The market runs from May 16 through October 14 on Thursday and Saturdays. It is located in Grinnell's Central Park, located at 833 4th Avenue.

Grinnell Games is a weekend family sports festival. Community-organized events include Imagine Grinnell's Half Marathon and 5K Run, the Twilight Bike Criterium, The Amazing Chase, Twilight Trail Run, and the Warrior Run. Grinnell Games draws visitors from across the state with its family-friendly activities, sidewalk sales, live music, and a beer garden on Saturday night.

Media
The Grinnell Herald-Register is a semi-weekly newspaper in Grinnell, Iowa. It was formed on February 13, 1936, after the merger of the Grinnell Herald and Grinnell Register. The Herald was founded on August 16, 1871, as a semi-weekly newspaper, and the Register was founded in 1888. The Grinnell Herald, in turn, was founded as the Poweshiek County Herald on March 18, 1868.

The Poweshiek County Chronicle Republican – often referred to as the Poweshiek County CR or simply The CR – was created in January 2009 as the result of a merger of two newspapers serving other communities in Poweshiek County, the Brooklyn Chronicle and the Montezuma Republican; the Pennysaver, a shopper that had operated in Grinnell, continued, and the new newspaper began incorporating Grinnell news along with its existing coverage of rural Poweshiek County and its communities.

Education
The first school in Grinnell was founded in 1855. Public schools within the Grinnell–Newburg Community School District include Fairview Elementary School (K-2nd grade for the eastern side of town), Bailey Park Elementary School (K–2nd grade for the western side of town), Davis School (3rd–4th grade), Grinnell–Newburg Middle School (5th–8th grade) and Grinnell–Newburg High School (9th–12th grade). There is one private school, Central Iowa Christian School, which enrolls about 35 students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Grinnell is home to Grinnell College, a private liberal arts college. Iowa Valley Community College also operates a satellite campus on the western edge of Grinnell.

Health care
In 2019, the local hospital became a part of the Unity Point Hospital system. Unity Point Grinnell, formerly known as Grinnell Regional Medical Center, is an acute care hospital licensed for 81 beds. GRMC was established in 1967 after the merger of two hospitals, one step in a century of providers joining to serve the community. Nearly 60 physicians provide care at the medical center.

Library

Drake Community Library opened in November 2009. The library serves as a center of community activities. It has 25 public computers, 3 large meetings rooms, two small study rooms, a variety of seating areas and offers a full range of reading and AV materials. The library is actively working to create a digital archive of local history and make archived photos and documents available on their website. A wide range of photos and documents are available for viewing as part of Digital Grinnell and the Poweshiek History Preservation Project. Area residents can also use the Grinnell College Libraries. In 1901, Joel Stewart funded the construction of the first library in Grinnell, the Stewart Library, which served in that capacity until 2009. The building remains in service today as the headquarters for the Grinnell Area Arts Council. The library also has many eco-friendly structures like clerestory for natural light, flooring and furniture made from recycled materials, water-saving fixtures, permeable pavers, and native landscaping.

Parks and recreation
Grinnell has nine parks that are run by Parks and Recreations, including Arbor Lake, Bailey Park, Central Park, Jaycee Park, Lions Park, Merrill Park, Miller Park, Thomazin Park, and Van Horn Park. Ahrens and Paschall Memorial Park is privately run by the Claude & Dolly Ahrens Foundation. The city boasts three aquatic centers. A small indoor pool is part of the Ahrens Family Center. The Grinnell Mutual Family Aquatic Center is open during the summer months. Area residents also have access to the College Natatoriaum Grinnell and other college athletic facilities.

Museums and art galleries
Grinnell Historical Museum was founded as a community collaborative effort through a contest for community development by the Grinnell Herald Register in 1950. Four women's groups—two chapters of the DAR, the Historical and Literary Club, and the Tuesday Club, took as their project the creation of a museum. People responded enthusiastically; donations included a rope bed, a hair wreath, and the twisted bell clapper from the ruins of the first High School, which had burned. The house the museum is currently situated in was generously donated by Rubie Burton. Displays are of interest to visitors of all ages. The kitchen holds an electric refrigerator made by the Grinnell Washing Machine Company, one of the first 50 made in 1932. There is a Military exhibit with uniforms from the Civil War to the Vietnam war. The Carriage House holds several horse-drawn vehicles built by the Spaulding Carriage Factory in Grinnell.

The Grinnell Area Arts Council (GAAC) building, formerly Stewart Library, includes the Stewart Gallery and features works of local and regional artists. The gallery space includes high ceilings and nice light. The GAAC also includes the Loft Theater and is home to the Grinnell Community Theater. In 2008, the GAAC expanded to space across the street and opened The Stew Makerspace. The Stew Makerspace is a collaboration between the Grinnell Area Arts Council and the Wilson Center for Innovation and Leadership at Grinnell College. Located at 927 Broad Street, the Stew houses spaces for ceramics, woodworking, 3D printing, metal working, laser engraving, and much more.

The Faulconer Gallery (now called the Grinnell College Museum of Art) on the Grinnell College campus features year-round exhibits of regional, national and international artists. The space is inside the Bucksbaum Center for the Arts.

Highways

 * I-80.svg Interstate 80 to Davenport and Des Moines
 * US 6.svg U.S. Route 6 to Iowa City and Des Moines
 * Iowa 146.svg Iowa Highway 146 to Le Grand and New Sharon

Rail
Grinnell is served by two freight-only railroad lines: The two lines meet in a diamond near The Peppertree at the Depot Crossing, a railroad-themed restaurant. The Union Pacific line sees 3 trains per day while the IAIS line sees about 2 trains per day.
 * Union Pacific Oskaloosa Subdivision from Marshalltown to Eddyville
 * Iowa Interstate Railroad mainline from Council Bluffs to Bureau Junction, Illinois, and on to Chicago

Airport
The Grinnell Regional Airport, also known as Billy Robinson Field, is a city-owned airport located within city limits about 2 miles south of the town center. The airport provides private and charter flights, and saw an average of 114 aircraft operations per week during 2019.

Community organizations
The Imagine Grinnell Foundation is a small, grassroots foundation that focuses on quality-of-life issues, such as a healthy and sustainable environment, that complement economic efforts.

The Claude & Dolly Ahrens Foundation provides space and office support for the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, the Imagine Grinnell Foundation, and other foundations that are sheltered under the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation umbrella. The Ahrens Foundation focuses on quality of life, health, and parks and recreation through overseeing its own property and collaborating with partner institutions.

The Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation serves as an umbrella organization for smaller nonprofits in the Grinnell area and helps with their financial management.

Mid Iowa Community Action is a private nonprofit that seeks to help those affected by poverty.

The Grinnell Area Arts Council encourages artistic expression at the Grinnell Art Center and throughout the community.

Notable people

 * John O. Bailey (1880–1959), judge and politician who served as the Chief Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court, was born in Grinnell and attended local schools before enrolling at Harvard University.
 * Bruce Braley (born 1957), former member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Iowa's 1st congressional district, was born in Grinnell.
 * Pete Brownell (born 1969), CEO of Brownell's Inc. and President of the National Rifle Association of America from May 2017 to May 2018.
 * Cornelia Clarke (1884-1936), nature photographer
 * Jeff Criswell (born 1964), offensive lineman who played twelve seasons in the National Football League, was born in Grinnell.
 * Kirby Criswell (born 1957), linebacker who played two seasons in the National Football League, was born and raised in Grinnell and attended Grinnell High School.
 * John Darnielle (born 1967), musician and novelist, the main creative force behind The Mountain Goats.
 * Josiah Bushnell Grinnell (1821–1891), city founder and abolitionist to whom Horace Greeley is quoted as having said: "Go West, young man, go West." This story is almost certainly apocryphal, as Greeley claimed that he never said those words to anyone.
 * Danai Gurira, actress, known for her role as Michonne in the hit television series The Walking Dead and as Okoye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
 * Hallie Flanagan (1890–1969), Federal Theater Project head, grew up in Grinnell and also attended Grinnell College.
 * Abby Williams Hill (1861-1943) - artist
 * Harry Hopkins (1890–1946), one of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's advisors and New Deal architect, lived in Grinnell as a teenager before attending Grinnell College.
 * Joe Lacina (born 1985), artist.
 * Helen Lemme (1904–1968), civil rights advocate.
 * David R. Nagle (born 1943), Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1987 to 1993, was born in Grinnell.
 * Robert Noyce (1927–1990), physicist and inventor who co-founded Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel Corporation, he grew up in Grinnell and attended Grinnell College.
 * Bernard E. Pedersen (1925–1996), Illinois businessman and legislator, was born in Grinnell.
 * Billy Robinson (1884–1916), pioneer aviator, moved to Grinnell at the age of 12.
 * Edith Renfrow Smith (1914- ), first Black woman to graduate from Grinnell College.

In popular culture

 * Robert A. Heinlein's 1951 novel The Puppet Masters begins with government agents attempting to investigate an alien ship that landed near Grinnell.
 * Ray Bradbury references Grinnell in The Martian Chronicles and Dandelion Wine.
 * Dean Bakopoulos's 2015 novel Summerlong is set in Grinnell.
 * The 2018 film Saint's Rest was filmed at the Saint's Rest coffee shop in Grinnell.
 * In the film The Half of It, which won the Founders Award at the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival, the main character Ellie Chu eventually attends Grinnell College. Her teacher, a Grinnell alumnus, has encouraged her to apply.

title: Grinnell, Iowa


text:
Guernsey, Iowa

Guernsey is a town in Poweshiek County, Iowa, United States. The population was 63 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Guernsey was platted in 1884. It was named after Guernsey County, Ohio. A post office was first established in Guernsey in 1884.

Geography
Guernsey is located at 41.65°N, -92.34444°W (41.650087, -92.344498).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.18 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 63 people, 27 households, and 18 families living in the town. The population density was 350.0 PD/sqmi. There were 32 housing units at an average density of 177.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.8% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 27 households, of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.6% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.3% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% 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 2.83.

The median age in the town was 43.8 years. 23.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.2% were from 25 to 44; 19.1% were from 45 to 64; and 28.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 52.4% male and 47.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 70 people, 29 households, and 20 families living in the town. The population density was 379.8 PD/sqmi. There were 34 housing units at an average density of 184.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.29% White, 1.43% Native American, 2.86% from other races, and 1.43% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.29% of the population.

There were 29 households, out of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.1% were married couples living together, 3.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.0% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.9% 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 3.05.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.6% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 32.9% from 45 to 64, and 8.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 118.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 127.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,250, and the median income for a family was $46,250. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $16,458 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,727. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
The BGM Community School District operates the local area public schools. BGM Community School District was formed in 1960 with the merger of schools in Brooklyn, Guernsey, and Malcom.

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

title: Guernsey, Iowa


text:
Hartwick, Iowa

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

Geography
Hartwick is located at 41.78528°N, -92.34417°W (41.785264, -92.344290).

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 86 people, 38 households, and 25 families living in the city. The population density was 661.5 PD/sqmi. There were 40 housing units at an average density of 307.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.7% White and 2.3% from two or more races.

There were 38 households, of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 5.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 10.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.2% were non-families. 28.9% 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 2.26 and the average family size was 2.68.

The median age in the city was 35 years. 22.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 27.9% were from 25 to 44; 24.5% were from 45 to 64; and 17.4% 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 83 people, 36 households, and 24 families living in the city. The population density was 640.7 PD/sqmi. There were 40 housing units at an average density of 308.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 36 households, out of which 27.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.7% were married couples living together, 2.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.6% were non-families. 27.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.5% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 26.5% from 25 to 44, 26.5% from 45 to 64, and 19.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,250, and the median income for a family was $43,750. Males had a median income of $33,750 versus $21,875 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,830. There were no families and 2.7% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
H-L-V Community School District operates area public schools.

title: Hartwick, Iowa


text:
Malcom, Iowa

Malcom is a city in Poweshiek County, Iowa, United States. The population was 270 at the time of the 2020 census. The city was named for an early settler. The town's major businesses include BASF, a restaurant, and Dayton Meat Products.

History
Prior to the treaty of May 1, 1843, the area of what is now Malcom was Sac and Fox (Sauk and Meskwaki) lands. Though there were a few settlers earlier, by 1858, the population justified the formation of a township. The railroad was extended from Iowa City in 1863, and the village was laid out on the Little Bear Creek. The town was incorporated on April 23, 1872. The town was badly damaged in the 2020 derecho, when a resident died and several grain silos were toppled.

Education
The first school in Malcom was established in 1855, consisting of six students. In 1864, the Malcom Independent School was established. By 1880, there were 136 pupils in the school. The first high school was started in 1885, though only three years were offered, and many students went to Grinnell to complete their work. The first graduating class of seven students, all girls, was in 1888. A modern two-story brick schoolhouse was dedicated in November, 1903. In 1923–24, a new addition was built at a cost of $38,000. During this time, there were also nine rural one room schools in the township. The last class to graduate from Malcom High School was in 1960, as the school merged with schools in Brooklyn and Guernsey to form the BGM Community School District. The Malcom school was then converted to an elementary school.

Geography
Malcom is located at 41.70749°N, -92.55537°W (41.707486, -92.555373).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.61 sqmi, all land. The town is located just north of Interstate 80. Little Bear Creek runs through the southern edge of town.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 287 people, 132 households, and 86 families living in the city. The population density was 470.5 PD/sqmi. There were 143 housing units at an average density of 234.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.6% White, 0.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 132 households, of which 21.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.3% were married couples living together, 4.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.8% were non-families. 29.5% 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 2.17 and the average family size was 2.70.

The median age in the city was 47.9 years. 17.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.9% were from 25 to 44; 31.4% were from 45 to 64; and 21.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 53.0% male and 47.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 352 people, 144 households, and 102 families living in the city. The population density was 575.6 PD/sqmi. There were 154 housing units at an average density of 251.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.43% White, 0.28% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.28% of the population.

There were 144 households, out of which 28.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.6% were married couples living together, 5.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.5% were non-families. 25.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 29.0% from 25 to 44, 26.1% from 45 to 64, and 15.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $39,167, and the median income for a family was $55,417. Males had a median income of $28,194 versus $19,286 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,059. About 8.0% of families and 9.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.6% of those under age 18 and 8.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Malcom, Iowa


text:
Montezuma, Iowa

Montezuma is a city in Poweshiek County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,442 at the time of the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Poweshiek County.

Geography
Montezuma's longitude and latitude coordinates in decimal form are 41.584737, -92.525258.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.49 sqmi, of which 2.48 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

History
Montezuma was first established in 1848, when local veterans of the Mexican–American War named the city after Monteuczomah, the last Aztec emperor of Mexico. Once a hub of regional railroad transport, Montezuma has continued to evolve and grow in a variety of ways. Montezuma was also a major stop on the stagecoach line between Iowa City and Des Moines on the original Diamond Trail.

Located on the southwest corner of Montezuma's square is the Poweshiek County Historical and Genealogical Society, located in the historic Carnegie library. Housed in the former Poweshiek County Jail is the Poweshiek County History Museum.

The Scott Township School No. 7, also known as the Fitzsimmons School was moved from the original country landscape to the campus of the Poweshiek County Historical Society.

During the summer of 1934, Pentecostal evangelist Morris Plotts held tent revivals throughout south central Iowa, establishing churches in Oskaloosa, New Sharon, Grinnell, Montezuma, and Lynnville. While in Montezuma, Plotts was cited with public disturbance and jailed. He continued to minister from his cell and revival broke out in the jail. Plotts' six-month sentence was suspended for good behavior.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,462 people, 632 households, and 399 families living in the city. The population density was 589.5 PD/sqmi. There were 692 housing units at an average density of 279.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.2% White, 0.4% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 632 households, of which 29.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.4% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.9% were non-families. 32.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.9% 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 2.83.

The median age in the city was 42.5 years. 23.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23% were from 25 to 44; 26.4% were from 45 to 64; and 19.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,440 people, 601 households, and 390 families living in the city. The population density was 586.9 PD/sqmi. There were 641 housing units at an average density of 261.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.75% White, 0.28% African American, 0.07% Native American, 0.35% Asian, and 0.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.42% of the population.

There were 601 households, out of which 28.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.7% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.1% were non-families. 31.1% 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 2.31 and the average family size was 2.91.

23.6% were under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 22.4% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,820, and the median income for a family was $43,083. Males had a median income of $31,483 versus $21,450 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,806. About 3.8% of families and 6.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.8% of those under age 18 and 5.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Montezuma is home to the Montezuma Community School District, a K-12 school district. The mascots are the Braves and Bravettes and the school colors are blue and white.

Girls State Basketball Champions: 1969, 1970

Boys State Basketball Champions: 1971, 1990, 2021

Attractions
Montezuma's agricultural heritage is celebrated in barn quilt art and renewed interest in local preservation has inspired many to continue living out that history. Montezuma is the inaugural home to the first town square Bill of Rights monument in the United States.

Poweshiek County Freedom Rock

Freedom Rock painter Raymond “Bubba” Sorensen II of Greenfield finished the Poweshiek County Freedom Rock in 2016, and is located on the southeast corner of the courthouse square.

Recreational and residential lakes

The development of Diamond Lake, Lake Ponderosa, and Lake Silverado add to the recreational options of the area. Green spaces and wildlife areas like Fox Forest offer hiking and equestrian trails, as well as observation of native vegetation and wildflowers. Nearby Fleming Woods State Preserve offers sanctuary to several species of other indigenous plant life and animals. It is believed that Chief Poweshiek and other Native Americans once lived in these areas.

Churches and denominations
Montezuma is home to several churches. These include the Community Hope Assembly of God, First Evangelical Presbyterian, United Methodist Church, Jackson Church of Christ, Faith Christian Center and West Liberty Church.

Several of these congregations offer Sunday and mid-week services as well as weekly Bible study groups, children's education programs, youth group activities, and missions work opportunities.

Self-Sustaining Municipalities
Montezuma has its own Water Department, with water sourced by nearby Diamond Lake.

In February 2024, Montezuma was selected as the nation's first microgrid community, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy and Iowa State University.

Transportation
Montezuma is located approximately 8 miles south of the exit 191 on Interstate 80 on U.S. Route 63. The city is also serviced by Iowa Highway 85 and county road F57.

Healthcare
Montezuma residents have access to UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Montezuma Medical Clinic, located at 101 West Washington. When hospitalization is required the closest and most convenient hospital for residents is Grinnell Regional Medical Center, located at 210 4th Avenue in Grinnell, Iowa.

Notable people

 * Robin Brown (born 1961) teacher and member of the Minnesota House of Representatives
 * Pete Brownell (American businessman) (born 1969) is the CEO of Brownells, founded by his grandfather, in Montezuma, Iowa.
 * Thomas Jefferson Cowie (1857–1936) Rear admiral in the United States Navy with the destroyer USS Cowie (DD-632) named in his honor.
 * Marsena E. Cutts (1833–1883) teacher, lawyer, and politician serving in both the Iowa House and Senate and the U.S. House.
 * Dan Johnston (1938-2016), Iowa lawyer and state legislator
 * Thomas Harris MacDonald (1881–1957) highway advocate and bureaucrat, chief of the Iowa State Highway Commission and both chief and commissioner of the Bureau of Public Roads.

title: Montezuma, Iowa


text:
Searsboro, Iowa

Searsboro in an unincorporated community in Poweshiek County, Iowa, United States. The population was 148 at the 2010 census. The city attempted to disincorporate in 2011, but the move failed when Poweshiek County refused to take control of the city's infrastructure.

Geography
Searsboro is located at 41.57944°N, -92.70361°W (41.579519, -92.703703).

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 148 people, 71 households, and 41 families living in the city. The population density was 328.9 PD/sqmi. There were 77 housing units at an average density of 171.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.3% White and 0.7% from two or more races.

There were 71 households, of which 19.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.5% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.3% were non-families. 35.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.8% 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 2.63.

The median age in the city was 45.3 years. 15.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.4% were from 25 to 44; 39.2% were from 45 to 64; and 11.5% 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 155 people, 70 households, and 39 families living in the city. The population density was 392.4 PD/sqmi. There were 79 housing units at an average density of 200.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.35% White and 0.65% Native American.

There were 70 households, out of which 22.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 5.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.9% were non-families. 32.9% 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 2.21 and the average family size was 2.90.

In the city the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 25.8% from 45 to 64, and 19.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,795, and the median income for a family was $26,528. Males had a median income of $28,929 versus $27,917 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,958. About 5.1% of families and 5.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.8% of those under the age of eighteen and 5.9% of those 65 or over.

Education
The Lynnville–Sully Community School District operates local public schools.

Notable people
Searsboro is the hometown of Jeff Criswell, a former offensive lineman for the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs.

Franklin Bechly (1873-1965) was born in Searsboro. He became Iowa 6th District Judge, serving from 1927 to 1959.

title: Searsboro, Iowa


text:
Beaconsfield, Iowa

Beaconsfield is a city in Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 15 in the 2020 census, unchanged from 2010 and an increase from 11 in 2000. In the 2000 census Beaconsfield was the least populated incorporated city in Iowa; with the increase in the 2020 census, it is now the second smallest, after Le Roy.

History
Beaconsfield started when the Humeston and Shenandoah Railroad built a train station. In 1881 a town company laid it out as a village. A post office was established in 1882 and closed in 1993.

The town was incorporated on January 18, 1990.

The community was named after Lord Beaconsfield of England.

The Hy-Vee grocery chain has its origin in the Beaconsfield Supply Store, a general store opened by Charles Hyde and David Vredenburg in 1930. That location is on the National Register of Historic Places.

On May 23, 1981, a tornado touched down southwest of Beaconsfield for 15.9 miles. It was rated F2.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.72 sqmi, all land.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 15 people, 8 households, and 5 families living in the city. The population density was 20.8 PD/sqmi. There were 14 housing units at an average density of 19.4 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 8 households, of which 62.5% were married couples living together and 37.5% were non-families. 37.5% of households were one person and 25% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 1.88 and the average family size was 2.40.

The median age was 55.5 years. 0.0% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.7% (1) between the ages of 18 and 24; 13.3% (2) from 25 to 44; 40% (6) were from 45 to 64; and 40% (6) were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 46.7% male and 53.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 11 people, 7 households, and 3 families living in the city. The population density was 15.2 people per square mile (5.9/km$2$). There were 13 housing units at an average density of 18.0 per square mile (7.0/km$2$). The racial makup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 7 households, out of which none had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, and 42.9% were non-families. 42.9% of households were one person and 42.9% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 1.57 and the average family size was 2.00.

Population spread: 9.1% from 45 to 64, and 90.9% 65 or older. The median age was 70 years. For every 100 females, there were 57.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 57.1 males.

The median household income was $10,833 and the median family income was $11,667. Males had a median income of $0 versus $0 for females. The per capita income for the city was $5,990. There were no families and 20.0% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 20.0% of those over 64.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

Notable person

 * Peggy Whitson, NASA astronaut on three expeditions, from October 2009 to September 2017, held the office of The Chief Astronaut.

title: Beaconsfield, Iowa


text:
Benton, Iowa

Benton is a city in Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 39 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.64 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 41 people, 18 households, and 13 families living in the city. The population density was 64.1 PD/sqmi. There were 21 housing units at an average density of 32.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.1% White, 2.4% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.9% of the population.

There were 18 households, of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 72.2% were married couples living together, and 27.8% were non-families. 16.7% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.62.

The median age in the city was 53.5 years. 12.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 9.7% were from 25 to 44; 48.9% were from 45 to 64; and 19.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 58.5% male and 41.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 40 people, 19 households, and 14 families living in the city. The population density was 59.8 PD/sqmi. There were 20 housing units at an average density of 29.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.50% of the population.

There were 19 households, out of which 10.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.4% were married couples living together, and 26.3% were non-families. 26.3% 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 2.11 and the average family size was 2.43.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 10.0% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 22.5% from 25 to 44, 32.5% from 45 to 64, and 27.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52 years. For every 100 females, there were 166.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 140.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,250, and the median income for a family was $29,375. Males had a median income of $16,875 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,752. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

Notable people

 * Lemuel de Bra (1884–1954), a writer of short stories, was born in Benton.

title: Benton, Iowa


text:
Delphos, Iowa

Delphos is a former city in Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 26 at the 2020 census. In 2017 the community of Delphos voted to disincorporate. This was approved by the Ringgold County Board of Supervisors in 2018.

History
Delphos was founded in 1880 as Borneo on the Leon, Mount Ayr and Southwestern Railroad. The community had rail service until 1945 and a post office from its inception until 1993. The community was the only incorporated town in Ringgold County to not have a bank, though it once had stores, a blacksmith shop, and a hotel. Few notable landmarks other than homes remain in town, however the former church buildings are still standing as of 2022.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.22 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 25 people, 11 households, and 7 families living in the city. The population density was 113.6 PD/sqmi. There were 15 housing units at an average density of 68.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 11 households, of which 18.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.6% were married couples living together, and 36.4% were non-families. 36.4% 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 2.27 and the average family size was 3.00.

The median age in the city was 50.8 years. 24% of residents were under the age of 18; 0.0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16% were from 25 to 44; 32% were from 45 to 64; and 28% 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 25 people, 12 households, and 6 families living in the city. The population density was 112.1 PD/sqmi. There were 14 housing units at an average density of 62.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 12 households, out of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, and 50.0% were non-families. 41.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 25.0% 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 3.00.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.0% under the age of 18, 20.0% from 18 to 24, 12.0% from 25 to 44, 32.0% from 45 to 64, and 20.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,125, and the median income for a family was $33,125. Males had a median income of $0 versus $42,917 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,925. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

title: Delphos, Iowa


text:
Diagonal, Iowa

Diagonal is a city in northwest Ringgold County, Iowa, the United States. The population was 344 at the time of the 2020 census.

The community was named for the fact that two railroads intersected diagonally near the town site.

Geography
Diagonal is located 5 miles west of US Route 169 and approximately eight miles northwest of Mount Ayr. The Grand River flows past the east side of the town.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 330 people, 119 households, and 71 families living in the city. The population density was 366.7 PD/sqmi. There were 145 housing units at an average density of 161.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.9% White, 0.3% African American, and 1.8% Native American.

There were 119 households, of which 24.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.3% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.3% were non-families. 37.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.79.

The median age in the city was 52.8 years. 15.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.9% were from 25 to 44; 24.9% were from 45 to 64; and 36.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 45.2% male and 54.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 312 people, 139 households, and 87 families living in the city. The population density was 343.5 PD/sqmi. There were 154 housing units at an average density of 169.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 139 households, out of which 23.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.0% were married couples living together, 5.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.7% were non-families. 31.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.5% 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 2.85.

21.2% were under the age of 18, 10.9% from 18 to 24, 25.3% from 25 to 44, 24.4% from 45 to 64, and 18.3% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,063, and the median income for a family was $28,393. Males had a median income of $22,083 versus $18,958 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,601. About 16.5% of families and 15.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 23.7% of those under age 18 and 13.3% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Dick Ives, University of Iowa Three Time All American basketball player
 * Yam Yaryan, Chicago White Sox MLB baseball player, grew up near Diagonal

title: Diagonal, Iowa


text:
Ellston, Iowa

Ellston is a city in Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 19 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
In 1881, anticipating the railroad, Cochran & Le Fever built a general store, giving birth to the village of Wirt. The business failed and was sold six months later, but in March 1882 the Humeston & Shenandoah Railroad established a station here. In 1895 the town's name of Wirt was changed to Ellston so mail would be correctly received, rather than confused with the nearby northeasterly town of Van Wert.

The westerly border of Ellston is county road P-64. This road was originally part of the Dragoon Trace.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.2 sqmi, all land.

Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 57 people, 23 households, and 16 families residing in the city. The population density was 255.5 PD/sqmi. There were 24 housing units at an average density of 107.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 23 households, out of which 39.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.8% were married couples living together, 17.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 30.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 3.13.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.6% under the age of 18, 12.3% from 18 to 24, 26.3% from 25 to 44, 29.8% from 45 to 64, and 7.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 115.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,625, and the median income for a family was $45,000. Males had a median income of $14,583 versus $23,571 for females. The per capita income for the city was $10,345. There were 10.0% of families and 17.5% of the population living below the poverty line, including 28.6% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

Notable person

 * Harley A. Wilhelm, Manhattan Project chemist who invented the Ames process for purifying uranium making the atomic bomb possible, was born on a farm near Ellston.

title: Ellston, Iowa


text:
Kellerton, Iowa

Kellerton is a city in eastern Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 243 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
Kellerton is located on Iowa Highway 2 approximately nine miles east of Mount Ayr and two miles west of the Ringgold-Decatur county line.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.67 sqmi, of which 0.66 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 315 people, 126 households, and 88 families living in the city. The population density was 477.3 PD/sqmi. There were 161 housing units at an average density of 243.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.2% White, 1.0% Native American, 1.6% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

There were 126 households, of which 34.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.4% were married couples living together, 15.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.2% were non-families. 22.2% 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 2.50 and the average family size was 2.91.

The median age in the city was 37.3 years. 27.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.7% were from 25 to 44; 22.9% were from 45 to 64; and 17.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 52.7% male and 47.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 372 people, 152 households, and 96 families living in the city. The population density was 559.2 PD/sqmi. There were 169 housing units at an average density of 254.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.92% White, 0.54% Native American, and 0.54% from two or more races.

There were 152 households, out of which 33.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.0% were married couples living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.2% were non-families. 30.9% 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 2.45 and the average family size was 3.07.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 30.6% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 24.7% from 25 to 44, 19.1% from 45 to 64, and 17.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,000, and the median income for a family was $33,173. Males had a median income of $19,844 versus $18,929 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,442. About 14.9% of families and 20.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.0% of those under age 18 and 29.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

Notable person

 * Duane Miller (born 1947), professional football player and Drake University football record-holder.

title: Kellerton, Iowa


text:
Maloy, Iowa

Maloy is a city in southwest Ringgold County, Iowa, United States, along the Little Platte River. The population was 22 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Settlement of the western part of Ringgold County began in the 1850s. Maloy was platted in 1887, in the same year as the railroad arrived. Maloy was incorporated as a city in 1901. In 1917, the two-story brick Maloy High School was built; after serving from 1920 to 1952, it became an elementary school in the Mount Ayr Community School District.

A major fire on June 17, 1931, razed the Catholic Church, five businesses, a house, and a barn. The school closed in 1972 and was torn down in 1987. The railroad, which once offered both freight and passenger service, was dismantled in 1985.

Geography
Maloy is on Iowa County Road J43 approximately ten miles west-southwest of Mount Ayr. The Little Platte River flows past the west side of the community.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.62 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 29 people in 12 households, including 10 families, in the city. The population density was 46.8 PD/sqmi. There were 15 housing units at an average density of 24.2 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 100.0% White.

Of the 12 households 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 75.0% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 16.7% were non-families. 16.7% of households were one person and 8.3% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 2.60.

The median age was 42.5 years. 20.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 13.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24% were from 25 to 44; 20.5% were from 45 to 64; and 20.7% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 62.1% male and 37.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 28 people in 10 households, including 7 families, in the city. The population density was 45.1 PD/sqmi. There were 11 housing units at an average density of 17.7 per square mile (6.9/km$2$). The racial makup of the city was 100.00% White.

Of the 10 households 50.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.0% were non-families. 20.0% of households were one person and 10.0% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.29.

The age distribution was 32.1% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 28.6% from 25 to 44, 14.3% from 45 to 64, and 17.9% 65 or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city is $36,250, and the median family income was $13,750. Males had a median income of $16,250 versus $11,875 for females. The per capita income for the city was $10,386. There were 50.0% of families and 42.9% of the population living below the poverty line, including 55.6% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

Notable person

 * Luke E. Hart, tenth Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus

title: Maloy, Iowa


text:
Mount Ayr, Iowa

Mount Ayr is a city in Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,988 at the time of the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Ringgold County. Mount Ayr is a rural community in southwestern Iowa, 22 miles west of Interstate 35 on State Highway 2. Mount Ayr was founded in 1875 and the community was named in honor of poet Robert Burns’ birthplace in Ayr, Scotland. The “mount” was added to indicate its location on the highest point of land in the area.

Geography
Mount Ayr is at the intersection of US Route 169 and Iowa Highway 2. Kellerton is approximately nine miles to the east and Diagonal is about eight miles to the northwest.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.69 sqmi, of which 2.67 sqmi is land and 0.02 sqmi is water.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,691 people, 746 households, and 437 families residing in the city. The population density was 633.3 PD/sqmi. There were 822 housing units at an average density of 307.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.1% White, 0.1% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.8% 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 746 households, of which 24.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.9% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 41.4% were non-families. 37.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 24.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age in the city was 49.5 years. 19.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.5% were from 25 to 44; 26.6% were from 45 to 64; and 29.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 44.5% male and 55.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,822 people, 780 households, and 492 families residing in the city. The population density was 720.2 PD/sqmi. There were 856 housing units at an average density of 338.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.96% White, 0.27% Native American, 0.27% Asian, 0.05% from other races, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.44% of the population.

There were 780 households, out of which 26.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.6% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.9% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.82.

Age spread: 22.1% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 20.6% from 25 to 44, 19.7% from 45 to 64, and 30.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 80.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 75.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,893, and the median income for a family was $37,188. Males had a median income of $27,333 versus $20,184 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,444. About 8.3% of families and 13.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.1% of those under age 18 and 14.5% of those age 65 or over.

Library
The Mount Ayr Public Library is a Carnegie Library and has a microfiche film collection dating back to 1838 and a specialized genealogy room.

Parks and recreation
Local places for recreation include:
 * Judge Lewis Recreational Park, the city park
 * Poe Hollow Park & Ringgold Trailway
 * Sun Valley Lake and Resort, including a golf course and boating facilities
 * Fife's Grove and Loch Ayr, including a park and lake

Education
Mount Ayr is the home of the Mount Ayr Community School District, which serves Mount Ayr, Beaconsfield, Benton, Delphos, Ellston, Kellerton, Maloy, Redding, Tingley, and portions of Clearfield.

Mount Ayr has one high school (grades 7-12) and one elementary school (grades K-6), as well as a preschool and alternative high school. Enrollment averages around 50 students in each class. The drama department of Mount Ayr Community High School (MACHS) has produced several students who have played at district and state competitions.

Education statistics
For population 25 years and over in Mount Ayr:
 * High school or higher: 81.4%
 * Bachelor's degree or higher: 16.6%
 * Graduate or professional degree: 5.2%

Airport
Judge Lewis Field, located two miles southeast of Mount Ayr 40.70639°N, -94.22028°W and FAA Identified as 1Y3, is a small airport serving single-engine aircraft, operated by the city of Mount Ayr. The airport has a single gravel runway that is 2600 ft long by 40 ft wide.

Notable people

 * Peggy Whitson (born 1960) first female NASA Chief Astronaut.
 * Duane Miller (born 1947) professional football player and Drake football record-holder.

title: Mount Ayr, Iowa


text:
Redding, Iowa

Redding is a city in southwest Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 63 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.01 sqmi, of which 1.00 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 82 people, 37 households, and 21 families living in the city. The population density was 82.0 PD/sqmi. There were 42 housing units at an average density of 42.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 37 households, of which 21.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.6% were married couples living together, 2.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.2% were non-families. 35.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 29.7% 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 2.95.

The median age in the city was 51.5 years. 24.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.7% were from 25 to 44; 36.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.0% male and 50.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 78 people, 35 households, and 24 families living in the city. The population density was 77.6 PD/sqmi. There were 41 housing units at an average density of 40.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 35 households, out of which 20.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.0% were married couples living together, 2.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.4% were non-families. 25.7% 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 2.23 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 17.9% under the age of 18, 3.8% from 18 to 24, 24.4% from 25 to 44, 34.6% from 45 to 64, and 19.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 47 years. For every 100 females, there were 110.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 113.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $13,750, and the median income for a family was $36,250. Males had a median income of $24,375 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $10,144. There were 22.2% of families and 30.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including 15.8% of under eighteens and 40.0% of those over 64.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

title: Redding, Iowa


text:
Tingley, Iowa

Tingley is a city in northern Ringgold County, Iowa, United States. The population was 136 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Tingley was founded in 1883.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.68 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 184 people, 76 households, and 48 families living in the city. The population density was 270.6 PD/sqmi. There were 94 housing units at an average density of 138.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.5% of the population.

There were 76 households, of which 27.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.6% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.8% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 2.98.

The median age in the city was 45 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.9% were from 25 to 44; 18.5% were from 45 to 64; and 31.5% 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 171 people, 87 households, and 44 families living in the city. The population density was 253.6 PD/sqmi. There were 109 housing units at an average density of 161.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.25% White, and 1.75% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.58% of the population.

There were 87 households, out of which 19.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.5% were married couples living together, 6.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.3% were non-families. 46.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 33.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.97 and the average family size was 2.78.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 19.9% under the age of 18, 6.4% from 18 to 24, 20.5% from 25 to 44, 27.5% from 45 to 64, and 25.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 69.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $22,321, and the median income for a family was $34,375. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $22,222 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,475. About 7.7% of families and 10.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.7% of those under the age of eighteen and 19.0% of those 65 or over.

Education
Mount Ayr Community School District operates public schools serving the community.

title: Tingley, Iowa


text:
Auburn, Iowa

Auburn is a city in Sac County, Iowa, United States. The population was 265 at the 2020 census.

In 2014 Larry Finley, a former mayor of the town, stated in the Carroll Daily Times Herald that the Auburn community had embraced its financial identity as a "bedroom community."

History
Auburn was platted in 1888. It was named after the city of Auburn, New York.

Geography
Auburn is located at 42.25083°N, -94.87722°W (42.250857, -94.877191).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.50 sqmi, all land.

Auburn is 15 mi from Carroll, 15 mi from Lake City, and 15 mi from Lake View.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 322 people, 127 households, and 90 families living in the city. The population density was 644.0 PD/sqmi. There were 146 housing units at an average density of 292.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.7% White and 0.3% Asian.

There were 127 households, of which 34.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.3% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 29.1% were non-families. 26.8% 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 2.54 and the average family size was 3.03.

The median age in the city was 36 years. 28.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.8% were from 25 to 44; 20.6% were from 45 to 64; and 20.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.2% male and 48.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 296 people, 132 households, and 79 families living in the city. The population density was 609.9 PD/sqmi. There were 142 housing units at an average density of 292.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.99% White, 0.34% Asian, and 0.68% from two or more races.

There were 132 households, out of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.0% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.4% were non-families. 34.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.5% 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 2.85.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.3% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 25.7% from 25 to 44, 17.9% from 45 to 64, and 23.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $42,500, and the median income for a family was $45,833. Males had a median income of $26,667 versus $21,042 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,494. About 3.3% of families and 4.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.8% of those under the age of eighteen and 5.9% of those 65 or over.

Education
The city is served by the East Sac County Community School District.

It was previously a part of the Lake View-Auburn Community School District. The public school building in Auburn closed in 1987. The city government acquired the school building, converted it into a community center, and sold it since the price of heating was cost prohibitive. the former school is a private residence. On July 1, 1996, the Lake View-Auburn district merged into the Wall Lake View Auburn School District. That in turn merged into East Sac County on July 1, 2011.

Previously the town had a Catholic school. The water treatment company Krudico acquired it in 1990.

Notable person

 * Roy Reiman, magazine publisher

title: Auburn, Iowa


text:
Early, Iowa

Early is a city in Sac County, Iowa, United States. The population was 587 at the 2020 census.

History
Early was incorporated on May 22, 1883, and is named after D.C. Early, a local settler.

Geography
Early is located at 42.46194°N, -95.15139°W (42.461903, -95.151290).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.39 sqmi, all land.

Demographics

Early's "claim to fame" is that it is the Crossroads of the Nation, because U.S. Highway 71 and U.S. Route 20 intersect there.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 557 people, 246 households, and 146 families living in the city. The population density was 1428.2 PD/sqmi. There were 287 housing units at an average density of 735.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.2% White, 1.4% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.5% Pacific Islander, 3.1% from other races, and 1.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.5% of the population.

There were 246 households, of which 27.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.6% were married couples living together, 9.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.7% were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.26 and the average family size was 2.95.

The median age in the city was 40.9 years. 25.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24% were from 25 to 44; 27.7% were from 45 to 64; and 16.5% 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 605 people, 258 households, and 166 families living in the city. The population density was 1,532.3 PD/sqmi. There were 293 housing units at an average density of 742.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.03% White, 0.66% African American, 0.17% Native American, 2.31% from other races, and 0.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.13% of the population.

There were 258 households, out of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.2% were married couples living together, 7.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.3% were non-families. 32.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.97.

27.8% were under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 18.3% from 45 to 64, and 18.5% were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,972, and the median income for a family was $40,521. Males had a median income of $27,778 versus $18,929 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,317. About 8.1% of families and 12.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 9.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Early is a part of the Schaller-Crestland Community School District. The district formed on July 1, 1993, by the merger of the Schaller Community School District and the Crestland Community School District. Schaller-Crestland's nickname is the Wildcats, and their school colors are black, white, and gold.

Prior to consolidation with Nemaha, the Early Community School District had been known as the Cardinals, and their school colors were red and black. In 1958, the Early Community School and the Nemaha Community School merged to become the Crestland Community School District. The new district adopted the Cadets as their nickname, and their school colors were black and white. Nemaha had been known as the Bluejays; their school colors were blue and white.

In 2010, Schaller-Crestland began whole grade sharing with Galva-Holstein School district. The elementary schools stayed separated, with students going to Schaller, Galva and Holstein respectively. Grades 6-8 were moved from Galva and Schaller respectively to the Early high school. Grades 9-12 were moved to Holstein's High School. Their Mascot is now the Raptors and their School Colors are Black, Gold and Orange.

Song
The city is the topic of the song "Early", by folk musician Greg Brown. It appears on his album 44 & 66, released in 1980.

Murder of Dustin Wehde
In August 2011, Tracey Ann Richter was charged with first-degree murder and was convicted by a jury in November 2011. On June 1, 2012, Dateline NBC aired a two-hour episode titled "Twisted", about the 2001 shooting death of Early resident Dustin Wehde. Tracey Richter, a neighbor of Wehde's, was convicted of first-degree murder on November 7, 2011, and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole [Case No. FECR011900]. Richter appealed her conviction. On January 9, 2013, the Iowa Court of Appeals upheld the conviction of Tracey Ann Richter.

title: Early, Iowa


text:
Lake View, Iowa

Lake View is a city in Sac County, Iowa, United States. The population was 1,113 in the 2020 census, a decline from the 1,278 population in 2000.

History
The area around what is today called Black Hawk Lake was settled by white settlers in 1867. The first settlement was built by Robert Throssel and his son, followed by Joseph Parkinson, Noah Borah, William Johnston, Thomas Waddicor and George Trainer. In 1880 Platt Armstrong and James Fletcher built a railway station for the North Western Railway Company and laid out the town of Fletcher. The town was incorporated as a city and the name was changed from Fletcher to Lake View in 1887. The present name was selected for the scenic view over Wall Lake.

Geography
Lake View is located at 42.30705°N, -95.04739°W (42.307049, -95.047394).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.42 sqmi, of which 2.12 sqmi is land and 0.30 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,142 people, 564 households, and 326 families residing in the city. The population density was 538.7 PD/sqmi. There were 950 housing units at an average density of 448.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.3% White, 0.3% African American, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 0.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.1% of the population.

There were 564 households, of which 17.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.2% were married couples living together, 6.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.2% were non-families. 38.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.95 and the average family size was 2.54.

The median age in the city was 54.3 years. 16.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 16.7% were from 25 to 44; 33.3% were from 45 to 64; and 30.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.2% male and 52.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,278 people, 571 households, and 360 families residing in the city. The population density was 696.4 PD/sqmi. There were 818 housing units at an average density of 445.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.06% White, 0.39% African American, 0.08% Native American, and 0.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.23% of the population.

There were 571 households, out of which 22.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.6% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.8% were non-families. 33.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.75.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.7% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 19.7% from 25 to 44, 26.5% from 45 to 64, and 28.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,691, and the median income for a family was $33,333. Males had a median income of $26,932 versus $19,773 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,857. About 9.5% of families and 13.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.0% of those under age 18 and 8.5% of those age 65 or over.

Parks and recreation
The Sauk Rail Trail is a 33-mile trail running between the Black Hawk Lake in Lake View and Swan Lake in Carroll. It runs through several parks and the communities of Carnarvon, Breda and Maple River Junction. The multi-purpose recreational trail provides an outdoor recreational experience for the public, preserves a varied habitat for wildlife and preserving native vegetation.

Education
The city is served by the East Sac County Community School District. It was a part of the Lake View-Auburn Community School District until July 1, 1996, when it merged into the Wall Lake View Auburn School District. That in turn merged into East Sac County on July 1, 2011.

Lake View has one school, the high school for the district. The elementary school is located in Sac City, and the middle school is also in Sac City. It was formerly the combined high school and middle school for the Wall Lake View Auburn School District. The school's mascot is a Viking-inspired "Raider". The superintendent is Jeff Kruse. The principal of the high school is Kevin Litterer.

title: Lake View, Iowa


text:
Nemaha, Iowa

Nemaha is a city in Sac County, Iowa, United States. The population was 66 at the time of the 2020 census.

Geography
Nemaha is located at 42.515°N, -95.08944°W (42.514999, -95.089332).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.07 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 85 people, 33 households, and 23 families living in the city. The population density was 1214.3 PD/sqmi. There were 36 housing units at an average density of 514.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 88.2% White, 3.5% African American, 1.2% Asian, and 7.1% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 12.9% of the population.

There were 33 households, of which 30.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.5% were married couples living together, 9.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 30.3% were non-families. 24.2% 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 2.58 and the average family size was 3.13.

The median age in the city was 39.5 years. 29.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.7% were from 25 to 44; 28.3% were from 45 to 64; and 11.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 56.5% male and 43.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 102 people, 42 households, and 25 families living in the city. The population density was 637.4 PD/sqmi. There were 44 housing units at an average density of 275.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.06% White, 0.98% Native American, and 1.96% from two or more races.

There were 42 households, out of which 35.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.8% were married couples living together, 4.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.1% were non-families. 28.6% 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 2.43 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.5% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 131.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 120.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,708, and the median income for a family was $31,250. Males had a median income of $21,250 versus $28,125 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,997. There were 8.3% of families and 9.5% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Education
Nemaha became now part of the Ridge View School District as of 2010, which formed when the Galva-Holstein and Schaller-Crestland school districts merged. Previously, it was a part of the Schaller-Crestland Community School District. The district formed on July 1, 1993, by the merger of the Schaller Community School District and the Crestland Community School District.

Before the merger with Crestland in 1958, Nemaha was an independent school district. They were known as the Blue Jays.

title: Nemaha, Iowa


text:
Odebolt, Iowa

Odebolt is a city in Sac County, Iowa, United States. The population was 994 at the time of the 2020 census.

History
Odebolt was platted in 1877 when the Chicago & Northwestern Railway was extended to that point. Odebolt was incorporated as a city May 13, 1878.

While the etymology of Odebolt's unusual name is unquestioned — being named after the Odebolt Creek — the etymology of the creek's name is disputed. It has been ascribed to a story of a French fur trapper and to multiple stories of a bolt falling in the creek. The trapper's name was reportedly Odebeau, and his name corrupted.

Hometown of Iowa Hawkeyes star cornerback Cooper DeJean.

Geography
Odebolt is located at 42.31028°N, -95.25139°W (42.310416, -95.251354). Odebolt Creek arises near here, flows through Ida Grove, then into the Maple River.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,013 people, 433 households, and 269 families living in the city. The population density was 964.8 PD/sqmi. There were 511 housing units at an average density of 486.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.5% White, 0.2% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 0.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.8% of the population.

There were 433 households, of which 26.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.9% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.9% were non-families. 34.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.1% 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 2.89.

The median age in the city was 45 years. 23.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.5% were from 25 to 44; 26.2% were from 45 to 64; and 23.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.8% male and 52.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,153 people, 467 households, and 296 families living in the city. The population density was 1,102.7 PD/sqmi. There were 518 housing units at an average density of 495.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.22% white.

There were 467 households, out of which 27.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.1% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.6% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.1% 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 2.99.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.4% under the age of 18, 4.9% from 18 to 24, 22.8% from 25 to 44, 18.8% from 45 to 64, and 30.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,208, and the median income for a family was $40,917. Males had a median income of $30,000 versus $18,438 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,971. About 7.6% of families and 9.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.9% of those under age 18 and 10.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Odebolt is a part of the Odebolt–Arthur–Battle Creek–Ida Grove Community School District. It was a part of the Odebolt–Arthur Community School District, until its merger with the Battle Creek–Ida Grove Community School District on July 1, 2018. Schools serving the community include OABCIG Elementary Odebolt, OABCIG Middle School in Odebolt, and OABCIG High School in Ida Grove.

Notable People
Cooper DeJean, NFL Player for the Philadelphia Eagles

title: Odebolt, Iowa