Cities and Towns in Clarke County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 13, 1846, Clarke County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Clarke County was formed from Lucas County. The city of Osceola is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Clarke County has a population of 9,785 and area of 431 square miles (1,116 km²).
List of all cities in Clarke County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Hopeville, IA | 50174 | 641 |
| Murray, IA | 50174 | 641 |
| Osceola, IA | 50213 | 641 |
| Woodburn, IA | 50275 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Clarke County, Iowa
Osceola
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 6.74 square miles
- Population: 5,415 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50213
- Latitude: 41.0344° N
- Longitude: 93.7666° W
Location and History
Osceola, the county seat of Clarke County, is located in south-central Iowa along U.S. Highway 34 and Interstate 35. Founded in 1851, the town was named after the Seminole Chief Osceola. Its location along the railroad made Osceola a key transportation hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As a result, the town grew as a center for trade, agriculture, and industry. Agriculture has long played a significant role in Osceola’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being major commodities. Over time, Osceola has expanded its economy, with manufacturing and retail sectors complementing its agricultural base. Today, Osceola is a thriving regional center offering a mix of historical charm and modern amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Osceola is served by the Clarke Community School District, which includes Clarke Community High School. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Osceola Depot, a restored train station that serves as a historical museum. East Lake Park offers residents and visitors outdoor recreation with walking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. Another key landmark is Lakeside Casino, which draws visitors from across the region for gaming and entertainment. Osceola celebrates its history and community with annual events such as the Fourth of July celebration and the Clarke County Fair.
Murray
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.73 square miles
- Population: 684 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50174
- Latitude: 41.0469° N
- Longitude: 93.9491° W
Location and History
Murray is located in southwestern Clarke County, about 10 miles west of Osceola, along U.S. Highway 34. The town was established in 1868 with the arrival of the railroad and was named after railroad engineer Robert D. Murray. Murray quickly grew as a small agricultural community, serving as a local hub for farmers and businesses in the surrounding area. Agriculture remains a central part of the town’s economy, with corn and soybean production dominating the landscape. Murray has retained its rural character and small-town charm, making it a peaceful residential area with close-knit community values.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Murray is served by the Murray Community School District, which includes Murray High School. The town’s landmarks include the Murray Hill Park, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming pool for recreation. Murray also celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Murray Jamboree, a community event featuring parades, games, and local entertainment. The nearby Three Mile Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Murray’s historic downtown area offers a glimpse into the town’s past, with several preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Woodburn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: 180 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50275
- Latitude: 41.0622° N
- Longitude: 93.6055° W
Location and History
Woodburn is a small town located in northeastern Clarke County, about 12 miles northeast of Osceola, along U.S. Highway 34. Founded in 1857, the town developed as a small agricultural community, serving the needs of local farmers. Its proximity to the railroad in the 19th century helped Woodburn thrive as a grain shipping point for the surrounding region. Although the town’s population has remained small, Woodburn has maintained its rural identity and strong agricultural roots. Today, it offers residents a quiet lifestyle with close access to Osceola and other nearby cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Woodburn is part of the Clarke Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Osceola. The town’s primary landmark is Woodburn City Park, which provides green spaces, playgrounds, and a picnic area for local families. The town also celebrates its heritage with the annual Woodburn Day, a community event that includes parades, food vendors, and games. The surrounding farmland and rural landscapes offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, and fishing. Woodburn’s close proximity to East Lake Park and the Clarke County Fairgrounds provides additional recreational options for residents.
Weldon
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.27 square miles
- Population: 115 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50264
- Latitude: 40.8997° N
- Longitude: 93.7386° W
Location and History
Weldon is located in southeastern Clarke County, near the border with Decatur County, approximately 15 miles southeast of Osceola. The town was founded in 1881 and named after Colonel Samuel Weldon, a prominent local figure. Weldon developed as a small agricultural town, with grain and livestock production forming the backbone of its economy. The town’s location along the railroad helped it grow during its early years, but Weldon has remained a small, rural community throughout its history. Today, it retains a quiet, close-knit atmosphere with a focus on farming and local traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Weldon is part of the Clarke Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Osceola. The town’s key landmark is Weldon City Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and space for local events. Weldon’s rural location provides residents with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding countryside. The nearby Decatur County State Conservation Area offers additional recreational options, including wildlife viewing and camping. Weldon celebrates its history and community values with annual events such as the Weldon Picnic, which brings together residents for food, games, and entertainment.
Liberty
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.27 square miles
- Population: 38 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50155
- Latitude: 41.0439° N
- Longitude: 93.7052° W
Location and History
Liberty is located in northwestern Clarke County, about 15 miles west of Osceola. The town was founded in the late 19th century, and though small in population, it served as a local agricultural center for nearby farms. The town was named “Liberty” to reflect the sense of freedom and opportunity that early settlers experienced in the area. Despite its small size, Liberty has a long history tied to the local farming community, with corn and soybean farming continuing to be central to its economy. The town has maintained its rural character and offers a quiet, serene lifestyle for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Liberty is part of the Clarke Community School District, with students attending schools in Osceola. The town’s small size means it does not have many notable landmarks, but Liberty is surrounded by vast stretches of farmland and open countryside, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and hunting. The town’s close proximity to Osceola provides residents with access to more extensive services and amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment. Liberty’s residents take pride in their agricultural roots and the peaceful atmosphere that comes with small-town living in rural Iowa.
