Cities and Towns in Butler County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Butler County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Butler County was formed from Black Hawk County and Buchanan County. The city of Allison is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Butler County has a population of 14,332 and area of 580 square miles (1,502 km²).
List of all cities in Butler County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Allison, IA | 50602 | 319 |
| Aplington, IA | 50604 | 319 |
| Aredale, IA | 50605 | 641 |
| Austinville, IA | 50608 | 319 |
| Bristow, IA | 50611 | 641 |
| Clarksville, IA | 50619 | 319 |
| Dumont, IA | 50625 | 641 |
| Fern, IA | 50665 | 319 |
| Greene, IA | 50636 | 641 |
| Kesley, IA | 50649 | 319 |
| New Hartford, IA | 50660 | 319 |
| Packard, IA | 50619 | 319 |
| Parkersburg, IA | 50665 | 319 |
| Powersville, IA | 50636 | 641 |
| Shell Rock, IA | 50670 | 319 |
| Sinclair, IA | 50665 | 319 |
Major Cities and Towns in Butler County, Iowa
Allison
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.86 square miles
- Population: 1,006 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50602
- Latitude: 42.7536° N
- Longitude: 92.7969° W
Location and History
Allison, the county seat of Butler County, is located in north-central Iowa, approximately 30 miles west of Waverly. The town was established in 1881 and named after U.S. Senator William Boyd Allison, a prominent Iowa politician. Its location along the railroad contributed to its early growth as an agricultural and trade center. Throughout its history, Allison has remained a predominantly agricultural community, with farming and related industries serving as the backbone of the local economy. The town’s rural charm and rich heritage are reflected in its well-preserved historic buildings and strong community spirit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Allison is served by the North Butler Community School District, with North Butler High School located nearby in Greene. The town is home to several key landmarks, including Wilder Park, which offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities for residents and visitors. The Butler County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1881, stands as a testament to the town’s role as the county seat. The Allison Days celebration, held annually, brings the community together with parades, food, and entertainment. Additionally, the nearby Shell Rock River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing and kayaking.
Clarksville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: 1,328 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50619
- Latitude: 42.7874° N
- Longitude: 92.6734° W
Location and History
Clarksville is located in eastern Butler County, along the Shell Rock River, about 15 miles east of Allison. The town was founded in 1857 and named after John A. Clark, one of the area’s early settlers. Clarksville’s development was largely driven by its proximity to the river, which provided water power for early mills. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the town’s growth, turning it into a local hub for agriculture and commerce. Today, Clarksville maintains its small-town charm while serving as a center for local farming activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarksville is part of the Clarksville Community School District, with Clarksville High School serving the local student population. The town’s major landmarks include Heery Woods State Park, which offers scenic trails, camping, and access to the Shell Rock River for fishing and canoeing. The historic Clarksville Swinging Bridge, a pedestrian suspension bridge built in the early 20th century, is a unique feature of the town. Clarksville’s annual Pioneer Days festival celebrates the town’s heritage with parades, live music, and other family-friendly activities. The riverfront location provides numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic views.
Parkersburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.52 square miles
- Population: 2,015 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50665
- Latitude: 42.5744° N
- Longitude: 92.7879° W
Location and History
Parkersburg is situated in southwestern Butler County, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 57 and Iowa Highway 14. The town was founded in 1857 by Colonel George Parker, after whom it is named. Parkersburg grew steadily as a regional trade center due to its location on major transportation routes. The town faced a major challenge in 2008 when a devastating EF5 tornado swept through, causing extensive damage and loss of life. Since then, the community has shown remarkable resilience, rebuilding and continuing to thrive while retaining its close-knit, small-town character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Parkersburg is part of the Aplington-Parkersburg Community School District, with Aplington-Parkersburg High School being a key institution in the area. The town is famous for its high school football program, having produced several NFL players, including the late coach Ed Thomas, whose legacy is honored in the community. Major landmarks include Miracle Park, which was built in the aftermath of the tornado as a symbol of hope and recovery. Beaver Meadows Golf Course and the nearby Cedar River provide recreational opportunities for residents. The Parkersburg Heritage Days festival is an annual event celebrating the town’s history and resilience.
Shell Rock
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.26 square miles
- Population: 1,268 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50670
- Latitude: 42.7104° N
- Longitude: 92.5826° W
Location and History
Shell Rock is located in southeastern Butler County, along the banks of the Shell Rock River, about 15 miles southeast of Allison. Founded in 1855, the town was named after the river, which is rich in shell rock deposits. Shell Rock’s early economy revolved around milling and agriculture, with the river providing a vital resource for powering mills. The arrival of the railroad in the 19th century further spurred development, transforming the town into an important local trading hub. Today, Shell Rock retains its small-town charm while benefiting from its scenic riverside location and proximity to larger cities like Waverly.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shell Rock is part of the Waverly-Shell Rock Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Waverly. The town is home to several parks, including McCague Memorial Park, which offers riverfront access, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. The Shell Rock River provides excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Each year, the town celebrates Shell Rock River Days, a festival featuring parades, live music, and community events. The town’s historical museum showcases the rich history of the area, including its early milling operations and development along the river.
Aplington
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.34 square miles
- Population: 1,116 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50604
- Latitude: 42.5836° N
- Longitude: 92.8824° W
Location and History
Aplington is located in southwestern Butler County, about 3 miles west of Parkersburg. The town was founded in 1857 by John Apling, after whom it is named. Aplington’s early growth was tied to the expansion of the railroad, which made the town an important agricultural shipping point for local farmers. Over the years, the town has maintained its agricultural heritage while slowly evolving into a residential community with easy access to nearby larger cities. Aplington is known for its strong sense of community and small-town pride.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Aplington is part of the Aplington-Parkersburg Community School District, with Aplington-Parkersburg High School being shared between the two towns. The Aplington Recreation Complex offers residents a variety of amenities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. Each year, the town hosts Aplington Days, an event that brings together residents for a parade, carnival, and local entertainment. The historic Aplington Opera House is a key cultural landmark, hosting performances and community events throughout the year. The surrounding rural landscape, dotted with farms, reflects the town’s strong agricultural heritage.
Dumont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.98 square miles
- Population: 634 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50625
- Latitude: 42.7508° N
- Longitude: 92.9743° W
Location and History
Dumont is located in northwestern Butler County, near the county’s border with Franklin County. The town was established in the late 19th century as an agricultural community, serving the needs of local farmers. Named after Timothy Dumont, an early settler and landowner, the town grew with the construction of the railroad, which made it a shipping point for grain and livestock. Dumont has retained its small-town atmosphere over the years, with a focus on farming and local services. The town’s rural location and peaceful environment make it an attractive place for those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dumont is part of the Hampton-Dumont Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Hampton. The town’s primary recreational area is Dumont Park, which offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Dumont’s historic downtown includes several well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s 19th-century roots. The annual Dumont Summerfest is a popular local event, featuring parades, games, and family-friendly activities. The surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and birdwatching.
