Cities and Towns in Lucas County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 13, 1846, Lucas County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Lucas County was formed from Monroe County. The city of Chariton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Lucas County has a population of 8,710 and area of 431 square miles (1,116 km²).
List of all cities in Lucas County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bethlehem, IA | 50238 | 641 |
| Chariton, IA | 50049 | 641 |
| Derby, IA | 50068 | 641 |
| Last Chance, IA | 50068 | 641 |
| Lucas, IA | 50151 | 641 |
| New York, IA | 50238 | 641 |
| Norwood, IA | 50151 | 641 |
| Oakley, IA | 50049 | 641 |
| Russell, IA | 50238 | 641 |
| Williamson, IA | 50272 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lucas County, Iowa
Chariton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.82 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,100 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50049
- Latitude: 41.0150° N
- Longitude: 93.3067° W
City Location and History
Chariton, the county seat of Lucas County, is located in south-central Iowa, about 50 miles southeast of Des Moines. Founded in 1849, Chariton was named after the Chariton River, which runs nearby. The city quickly became a key transportation hub with the arrival of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad in the 1860s, which spurred economic growth and attracted settlers. In its early years, Chariton’s economy was centered around agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary industries. Chariton also has a rich historical heritage, with many of its buildings and landmarks reflecting its 19th-century origins. Today, Chariton remains an agricultural hub, with a growing focus on local businesses and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chariton is served by the Chariton Community School District, with Chariton High School being the main educational institution. Notable landmarks include the Lucas County Courthouse, an architectural gem completed in 1894, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Chariton is also home to the Red Haw State Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking, especially during the annual bloom of the park’s redbud trees. Another important site is the Chariton Cemetery, which holds the graves of Civil War veterans and serves as a historical reminder of the town’s past. Chariton’s annual Lucas County Fair showcases local agriculture and community spirit, making it a central event for residents and visitors alike.
Russell
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.51 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50238
- Latitude: 40.9831° N
- Longitude: 93.1986° W
City Location and History
Russell is a small town located in the southeastern part of Lucas County. Established in 1867, Russell developed as a railroad town along the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad line, which provided a critical link for local farmers to transport their crops and livestock. Agriculture has always been the backbone of Russell’s economy, with many local residents engaged in farming and related industries. Over the years, Russell has maintained its rural charm and tight-knit community atmosphere. Though small, the town played an important role in the county’s agricultural development and continues to serve as a center for farming activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Russell is part of the Chariton Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Chariton. One of the town’s main landmarks is the Russell Historical Society Museum, which preserves artifacts and documents related to the town’s history and the local railroad industry. The town also features several parks, including Russell City Park, which hosts local events and provides space for recreation. The annual Russell Fall Festival is a highlight of the community’s calendar, featuring parades, games, and a celebration of the town’s agricultural heritage. Russell’s small-town charm and agricultural roots make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Williamson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50272
- Latitude: 41.0861° N
- Longitude: 93.2622° W
City Location and History
Williamson is a small town located in the northeastern part of Lucas County. The town was founded in the late 1800s and developed primarily as a coal mining community. Like many small towns in Iowa during that time, the railroad played a significant role in Williamson’s growth, as it provided a means to transport coal and other goods to larger markets. The decline of the coal industry in the mid-20th century led to a decrease in the town’s population, but Williamson has continued to survive as a small residential community with strong agricultural ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Williamson is part of the Chariton Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Chariton. The town’s key landmarks include the remnants of its coal mining past, which are still visible in some parts of the community. Williamson City Park provides a green space for residents and is used for community events and outdoor recreation. The town’s annual celebrations often reflect its coal mining heritage, and the community comes together for picnics and social events throughout the year. Williamson’s quiet, rural setting and historical significance make it a small but proud part of Lucas County.
Derby
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.18 square miles
- Population: Approximately 115 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50068
- Latitude: 40.9294° N
- Longitude: 93.4583° W
City Location and History
Derby is a small town in southern Lucas County, founded in 1872 as a railroad stop along the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. The town was named after Derby, England, in homage to its founder’s heritage. Agriculture quickly became the town’s main economic driver, with the fertile land in the surrounding area providing opportunities for crop farming and livestock raising. Derby’s population peaked in the early 20th century but has since declined as the railroad’s importance diminished and agriculture became more mechanized. Today, Derby remains a quiet, rural community with deep agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Derby is part of the Chariton Community School District, with students attending schools in Chariton. The town’s primary landmark is the historic Derby United Methodist Church, which has been a focal point of the community for over a century. The town park offers recreational facilities and serves as a gathering place for local events, including Derby Days, an annual celebration featuring a parade, games, and a community barbecue. Derby’s small size and agricultural heritage give it a strong sense of community and rural charm, making it a peaceful place to live.
Lucas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50151
- Latitude: 41.0281° N
- Longitude: 93.4553° W
City Location and History
Lucas is located in western Lucas County and was founded in the 1860s as a coal mining town. Named after Robert Lucas, Iowa’s first territorial governor, the town thrived during the coal mining boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The mining industry attracted workers from various backgrounds, contributing to a diverse population during its peak years. As coal mining declined in the mid-20th century, so did the town’s population. Despite this, Lucas remains a proud community, with agriculture now serving as the main economic activity in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lucas is part of the Chariton Community School District, with students attending schools in Chariton. A notable landmark in the town is the John L. Lewis Memorial Museum of Mining and Labor, dedicated to the labor leader who grew up in Lucas and became a prominent figure in the American labor movement. The museum showcases the town’s coal mining heritage and the role it played in shaping the region. The nearby Stephens State Forest offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Lucas’ rich history and scenic rural surroundings make it a unique and historically significant town in Lucas County.
