Cities and Towns in Chickasaw County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Chickasaw County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Chickasaw County was formed from Fayette County. The city of New Hampton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 37, Chickasaw County has a population of 11,887 and area of 505 square miles (1,308 km²).

List of all cities in Chickasaw County, IA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alta Vista, IA 50603 641
Bassett, IA 50645 641
Boyd, IA 50659 641
Chickasaw, IA 50645 641
Fredericksburg, IA 50630 563
Ionia, IA 50645 641
Jerico, IA 50659 641
Lawler, IA 52154 563
Little Turkey, IA 52154 563
Nashua, IA 50658 641
New Hampton, IA 50659 641
50661 641
North Washington, IA 50659 641
50661 641
Saude, IA 52154 563

Major Cities and Towns in Chickasaw County, Iowa

New Hampton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 4.32 square miles
  • Population: 3,494 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50659
  • Latitude: 43.0581° N
  • Longitude: 92.3172° W

Location and History

New Hampton, the county seat of Chickasaw County, is located in northeastern Iowa along U.S. Highway 63 and Iowa Highway 24. Established in 1855, the town was named after New Hampton, New Hampshire, reflecting the origins of its early settlers. The town grew rapidly after the railroad arrived in the 1860s, becoming a central hub for the agricultural industry in the region. New Hampton’s economy has long been tied to farming, with corn, soybeans, and livestock production playing central roles. The town has maintained a balance between its rich historical roots and modern development, serving as the main commercial and governmental center for Chickasaw County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

New Hampton is served by the New Hampton Community School District, with New Hampton High School as the primary educational institution. Major landmarks in the town include the Chickasaw County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to the early 20th century. Mikkelson Park offers recreational opportunities, including a swimming pool, sports fields, and picnic areas. The town also hosts the annual Heartland Days celebration, which features parades, live music, and community events. The Carnegie Cultural Center preserves the history and culture of the area, offering exhibits and educational programs for residents and visitors.

Nashua

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.26 square miles
  • Population: 1,571 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50658
  • Latitude: 42.9517° N
  • Longitude: 92.5372° W

Location and History

Nashua is located in southeastern Chickasaw County, along the Cedar River and near U.S. Highway 218. The town was founded in 1856 and originally called Bridgeport, but the name was changed to Nashua after Nashua, New Hampshire, where many early settlers originated. Nashua grew as a small farming and milling community, with its location on the Cedar River providing power for early mills. The town is best known for the Little Brown Church in the Vale, made famous by the song “The Church in the Wildwood.” Agriculture remains central to Nashua’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and dairy farming being major contributors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nashua is part of the Nashua-Plainfield Community School District, with Nashua-Plainfield High School serving the area. The town’s most famous landmark is the Little Brown Church in the Vale, a historic church built in 1864 that continues to attract visitors and hosts numerous weddings. Cedar Lake, formed by the Cedar River, provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Cedar View Park is a popular recreational spot with picnic areas and playgrounds. The town celebrates its heritage each year with the Nashua Water Over the Dam Days festival, featuring parades, live entertainment, and community events.

Fredericksburg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.01 square miles
  • Population: 987 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50630
  • Latitude: 43.1236° N
  • Longitude: 92.1981° W

Location and History

Fredericksburg is located in northern Chickasaw County, about 15 miles northwest of New Hampton along Iowa Highway 18. The town was founded in 1856 and named after Frederick Padden, an early settler. Fredericksburg developed as an agricultural town, with the surrounding farmland supporting grain and livestock production. Over time, the town grew as a service and trade center for local farmers, with its economy continuing to rely heavily on agriculture. Fredericksburg maintains its rural charm and small-town atmosphere, offering residents a quiet lifestyle with access to local businesses and services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fredericksburg is part of the Sumner-Fredericksburg Community School District, with Fredericksburg Elementary School located in town. A notable landmark in the area is Plum Creek Park, which provides recreational opportunities such as picnicking, hiking, and fishing. The town also features the Fredericksburg Historical Museum, preserving the area’s rich agricultural and pioneer history. Fredericksburg Days is an annual celebration that brings the community together with parades, games, and local entertainment. The town’s close proximity to New Hampton offers additional amenities, while the surrounding countryside is ideal for outdoor activities like hunting and fishing.

Lawler

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.52 square miles
  • Population: 439 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 52154
  • Latitude: 43.0683° N
  • Longitude: 92.1472° W

Location and History

Lawler is located in northeastern Chickasaw County, about 10 miles northeast of New Hampton, along Iowa Highway 24. The town was established in 1871 and named after John Lawler, a railroad executive who played a significant role in bringing the railroad to the area. Lawler developed as a small railroad and farming community, with agriculture forming the backbone of its economy. The town grew steadily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, though it has remained a small, close-knit community with deep agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lawler is part of the Turkey Valley Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Jackson Junction. The town’s most notable landmark is the Irish Shanty, a well-known local bar and grill that has been serving the community for generations. The Lawler Irish Fest, an annual celebration of the town’s Irish heritage, features live music, traditional food, and cultural events. The town park provides recreational amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Lawler’s rural surroundings offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and fishing in nearby areas.

Alta Vista

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.31 square miles
  • Population: 247 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50603
  • Latitude: 43.2011° N
  • Longitude: 92.4189° W

Location and History

Alta Vista is located in northwestern Chickasaw County, about 12 miles northwest of New Hampton. The town was founded in 1894 and its name, which means “high view” in Spanish, reflects its slightly elevated location. Alta Vista developed as a small agricultural community, with farming as the main economic driver. The town grew alongside the railroad, which helped transport local agricultural products to markets. Though small, Alta Vista has retained its rural charm and remains closely connected to the surrounding farming areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alta Vista is part of the New Hampton Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby New Hampton. The town’s primary landmark is St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, which has served the community for over a century and is a central gathering place for residents. The Alta Vista Memorial Park offers green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas for outdoor activities. Each summer, the town celebrates its history with Alta Vista Days, a festival that features parades, games, and local entertainment. The nearby Crane Creek provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation, attracting residents and visitors alike.

Ionia

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.42 square miles
  • Population: 256 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50645
  • Latitude: 43.0361° N
  • Longitude: 92.4608° W

Location and History

Ionia is located in southwestern Chickasaw County, about 9 miles southwest of New Hampton, along U.S. Highway 18. The town was founded in 1857 and named after Ionia, Michigan, by settlers who came from that region. Ionia developed as a small agricultural town, with its economy centered around farming, particularly grain and livestock. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped spur growth, although the town has remained relatively small. Ionia is known for its tight-knit community and rural way of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ionia is part of the Nashua-Plainfield Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Nashua. The town’s primary landmarks include Ionia City Park, which provides playgrounds, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. The annual Ionia Fun Days celebration brings the community together with parades, games, and local entertainment, reflecting the town’s strong sense of community. Ionia’s location near the Cedar River offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. The surrounding farmland continues to play a vital role in the town’s economy, preserving its agricultural heritage.