Cities and Towns in Bremer County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Bremer County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Bremer County was formed from Native American lands and Winnebago County. The city of Waverly is the county seat. With FIPS code of 17, Bremer County has a population of 25,081 and area of 428 square miles (1,109 km²).
List of all cities in Bremer County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Artesian, IA | 50677 | 319 |
| Bremer, IA | 50677 | 319 |
| Buckcreek, IA | 50674 | 319 |
| Denver, IA | 50622 | 319 |
| Finchford, IA | 50647 | 319 |
| Frederika, IA | 50631 | 319 |
| Horton, IA | 50677 | 319 |
| Janesville, IA | 50647 | 319 |
| Klinger, IA | 50668 | 319 |
| Knittel, IA | 50668 | 319 |
| Murphy, IA | 50677 | 319 |
| Plainfield, IA | 50666 | 319 |
| Readlyn, IA | 50668 | 319 |
| Sumner, IA | 50674 | 319 |
| Tripoli, IA | 50676 | 319 |
| Waverly, IA | 50677 | 319 |
Major Cities and Towns in Bremer County, Iowa
Waverly
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 11.51 square miles
- Population: 10,394 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50677
- Latitude: 42.7253° N
- Longitude: 92.4755° W
Location and History
Waverly is the county seat of Bremer County, located in northeastern Iowa along the Cedar River. Established in 1859, the city was named by early settlers after the Waverly novels by Sir Walter Scott. Waverly’s location along the Cedar River made it a natural hub for trade and transportation, especially as the railroad expanded in the late 19th century. The city grew steadily through agriculture and manufacturing, and today it has a diverse economy, with sectors in healthcare, education, and industry. Waverly is also known for its deep ties to Wartburg College, a private Lutheran liberal arts institution founded in 1852.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waverly is served by the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District, with Waverly-Shell Rock High School as the major secondary school. Wartburg College is the most significant institution in the city, bringing a vibrant student population and cultural events to the area. Major landmarks include the Bremer County Historical Society Museum, which showcases local history, and the Waverly Rail Trail, a popular route for biking and walking. The Cedar River also offers recreational opportunities, with activities such as canoeing and fishing being popular. Waverly celebrates its heritage annually with the Waverly Heritage Days festival, featuring parades, concerts, and family-friendly activities.
Sumner
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.63 square miles
- Population: 2,032 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50674
- Latitude: 42.8469° N
- Longitude: 92.0991° W
Location and History
Sumner is located in the northeastern part of Bremer County, about 25 miles northeast of Waverly. Founded in the 1870s, Sumner was named after Senator Charles Sumner, a prominent abolitionist. The town’s development was closely tied to the arrival of the railroad, which made it a key agricultural shipping point for the surrounding region. Sumner has maintained its small-town charm over the decades, with its economy continuing to rely on agriculture and local businesses. It serves as a service center for the surrounding rural areas, with a strong sense of community and local pride.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sumner is part of the Sumner-Fredericksburg Community School District, which includes Sumner-Fredericksburg High School. The town is known for its historic downtown area, which features buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A notable landmark is the Frederika Memorial Park, located just outside the city, offering a quiet place for outdoor activities. Additionally, the historic Saint John’s Lutheran Church is an important cultural and historical site. Sumner is also home to several parks, including City Park, which hosts the town’s annual Sumner Days festival with local food, crafts, and entertainment.
Denver
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.52 square miles
- Population: 1,919 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50622
- Latitude: 42.6714° N
- Longitude: 92.3394° W
Location and History
Denver is located in southern Bremer County, just 10 miles south of Waverly and about 15 miles northeast of Waterloo. Originally named Jefferson City when it was founded in the 1850s, the town changed its name to Denver in 1863 after the capital of Colorado Territory. Denver began as a farming community and slowly grew due to its strategic location between Waverly and Waterloo. The town developed a reputation for being a friendly, family-oriented community, with a growing residential base that supports both local businesses and agriculture. Over the years, Denver has become a commuter town for those working in nearby Waterloo and Waverly.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Denver is served by the Denver Community School District, with Denver High School being the primary educational institution. The town is home to several parks, including City Park and the Denver City Swimming Pool, providing recreational activities for residents. The Denver Break-Away Days festival is a major annual event that brings the community together for parades, concerts, and sports activities. Denver’s proximity to the Cedar River and local nature trails makes it a great location for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Denver Cyclone Center serves as a hub for community events and activities.
Tripoli
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.11 square miles
- Population: 1,191 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50676
- Latitude: 42.8063° N
- Longitude: 92.2584° W
Location and History
Tripoli is located in northern Bremer County, about 20 miles northeast of Waverly. Founded in the late 19th century, the town was named after Tripoli, Libya, reflecting the trend of naming American towns after exotic foreign locales. Tripoli’s early growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroads and agriculture, particularly grain production. The town has remained a small agricultural center, with much of its economy still focused on farming and local businesses. Tripoli has a tight-knit community and offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with a strong connection to its historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tripoli is part of the Tripoli Community School District, with Tripoli High School as the central educational institution. The town’s main landmark is City Park, a large recreational area that hosts events and community gatherings. Tripoli also features the Bremer County Fairgrounds, which are located just outside the town and host events throughout the year, including the annual Bremer County Fair. The historic Immanuel Lutheran Church is another key site in Tripoli, reflecting the town’s strong religious heritage. Residents and visitors alike enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Sweet Marsh Wildlife Area, which offers opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and fishing.
Readlyn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.71 square miles
- Population: 844 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50668
- Latitude: 42.7028° N
- Longitude: 92.2212° W
Location and History
Readlyn is located in southeastern Bremer County, about 15 miles southeast of Waverly. Founded in the late 19th century, Readlyn was established as a farming community, and agriculture has remained the backbone of its economy. The town is named after Readlyn, England, reflecting the European heritage of many of its early settlers. Over the years, Readlyn has maintained its rural character and small population, with a focus on family farms and a close-knit community. Today, the town serves as a quiet residential area with easy access to the larger cities of Waverly and Waterloo.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Readlyn is part of the Wapsie Valley Community School District, with Readlyn Elementary School serving the town’s younger students. The main landmarks in Readlyn include the Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local military service members, and the Readlyn Historical Society, which preserves the town’s history through exhibits and archives. Another key attraction is the annual Grump Days festival, a quirky community celebration featuring parades, games, and the crowning of the town’s “Grump” as a tongue-in-cheek honor. Readlyn’s rural surroundings also offer opportunities for outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, and birdwatching in nearby nature reserves.
