Cities and Towns in Adair County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Adair County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Adair County was formed from Cass County. The city of Greenfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Adair County has a population of 7,541 and area of 569 square miles (1,474 km²).
List of all cities in Adair County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adair, IA | 50002 | 641 |
| Bridgewater, IA | 50837 | 641 |
| Fontanelle, IA | 50846 | 641 |
| Greenfield, IA | 50849 | 641 |
| Hebron, IA | 50858 | 641 |
| North Branch, IA | 50002 | 641 |
| Orient, IA | 50858 | 641 |
| Stanzel, IA | 50849 | 641 |
| Zion, IA | 50858 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Adair County, Iowa
Greenfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.08 square miles
- Population: 1,982 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50849
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.3050° N, 94.4621° W
Location and History
Greenfield, the county seat of Adair County, is located in the southwestern part of Iowa, about 60 miles west of Des Moines. Founded in 1856, Greenfield was named after the lush, green fields that surround the town. The town became the county seat in 1875, and its early development was tied to agriculture, particularly farming and livestock. Over the years, Greenfield grew as a small farming community with strong ties to the surrounding rural areas. The arrival of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century further spurred its growth, making it a local center for trade and transportation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Greenfield is served by the Nodaway Valley Community School District, with Nodaway Valley High School being the primary educational institution in the town. Notable landmarks include the Adair County Courthouse, a historic building located in the town square and a focal point of the community. Another key site is the Warren Cultural Center, which offers theater performances, art exhibits, and educational programs in a beautifully restored historic building. Greenfield is also home to the Freedom Rock, a large boulder painted annually by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen to honor veterans. The annual Greenfield Harvestfest is a popular community event, celebrating the town’s agricultural roots.
Adair
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.34 square miles
- Population: 781 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50002
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.5006° N, 94.6417° W
Location and History
Adair is located on the western edge of Adair County, near the intersection of Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 6. Founded in 1872, the town is named after General John Adair, a hero of the War of 1812 and the namesake of Adair County. Adair’s growth was closely tied to the railroad, with the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad running through the town, making it an important stop for trade and travelers. The town is best known for its connection to the infamous Jesse James gang, which robbed a train near Adair in 1873, marking the first train robbery in the West.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Adair is part of the Nodaway Valley Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Greenfield. A key landmark in the town is the Jesse James Historical Site, which commemorates the location of the famous train robbery. Another notable site is the Adair Viaduct, an engineering feat that allowed trains to cross over the town. The town’s peaceful parks and proximity to the Middle Raccoon River offer residents opportunities for outdoor activities. The Adair City Park, featuring playgrounds and picnic areas, is a popular gathering place. Adair’s historic past and small-town charm make it a notable spot in Adair County.
Stuart
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.57 square miles
- Population: 1,782 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50250
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.4978° N, 94.3186° W
Location and History
Stuart is located on the eastern border of Adair County and is divided between Adair and Guthrie Counties. Founded in 1870, Stuart was named after Charles Stuart, a prominent Iowa landowner and businessman. Like many towns in the region, Stuart grew rapidly due to its location along the railroad, serving as an important trading center for local farmers. In the early 20th century, Stuart became known for its brick and tile production, with several factories operating in the town. Over time, Stuart has evolved into a residential community with easy access to Interstate 80, making it a convenient stop for travelers and a quiet place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stuart is part of the West Central Valley Community School District, with West Central Valley High School serving the local student population. Notable landmarks in Stuart include the Historic All Saints Catholic Church, an architectural gem known for its Gothic Revival style and stained-glass windows. The Rock Island Depot, a restored train station, serves as a museum and community center, celebrating the town’s railroad heritage. Stuart also hosts the annual Good Egg Days Festival, featuring parades, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The town’s proximity to the Raccoon River Valley Trail makes it a popular destination for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fontanelle
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: 672 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50846
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.2881° N, 94.5614° W
Location and History
Fontanelle is located in the southwestern part of Adair County, about 12 miles south of Greenfield. Founded in 1855, the town was named after Chief Logan Fontanelle, a prominent leader of the Omaha Tribe. Fontanelle originally developed as a farming community, with agriculture serving as the backbone of its economy. The town’s early settlers were drawn by the fertile soil, and it soon became a hub for grain and livestock production. While small, Fontanelle has maintained its agricultural roots and strong sense of community over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fontanelle is served by the Nodaway Valley Community School District, with students attending Nodaway Valley High School in nearby Greenfield. The town’s key landmarks include the historic Fontanelle Public Library, which has served as a center of education and community events since the early 20th century. The Fontanelle City Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and space for community events. The town’s annual Fourth of July celebration is a highlight, with parades, fireworks, and festivities that bring together residents and visitors alike. Fontanelle’s quiet, rural atmosphere and deep ties to farming make it a peaceful and close-knit community.
Orient
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.29 square miles
- Population: 408 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50858
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.2033° N, 94.4186° W
Location and History
Orient is a small town located in the southeastern part of Adair County, approximately 10 miles southeast of Greenfield. The town was platted in 1879 and developed as a farming community with the arrival of the railroad, which helped boost local trade. Orient is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Henry A. Wallace, a prominent agricultural innovator, former U.S. Vice President, and Secretary of Agriculture. Wallace’s work in hybrid corn and agricultural economics left a lasting impact on American farming practices.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Orient is part of the Orient-Macksburg Community School District, with students attending Orient-Macksburg High School. The most notable landmark in the town is the Henry A. Wallace Country Life Center, which honors Wallace’s legacy through educational programs on sustainable agriculture and rural life. The center also features walking trails, gardens, and events that celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage. Orient hosts the annual Wallace Foundation Farm Field Day, drawing visitors interested in farming innovation and history. The town’s peaceful setting and historical significance make it a unique part of Adair County.
Bridgewater
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: 152 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50837
- Latitude and Longitude: 41.2353° N, 94.6728° W
Location and History
Bridgewater is one of the smallest towns in Adair County, located in the southwestern part of the county, about 15 miles southwest of Greenfield. Founded in 1885, Bridgewater was established as a farming and trading post for the surrounding rural area. The town’s growth was modest, and it remained a small, tight-knit community focused on agriculture. Despite its small size, Bridgewater has retained its charm and rural character over the years, serving as a quiet residential area for local farmers and their families.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bridgewater is part of the Nodaway Valley Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Greenfield. The town’s main landmarks include the Bridgewater United Methodist Church, which has been a focal point of community life since its founding. The town’s peaceful streets and proximity to the rolling farmland offer a serene, rural atmosphere. Bridgewater’s small-town charm is reflected in its local traditions and close-knit community, making it an example of rural living in Adair County. Community events, including holiday celebrations and local gatherings, help foster strong connections among residents.
