Cities and Towns in Madison County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 13, 1846, Madison County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Madison County was formed from Polk County. The city of Winterset is the county seat. With FIPS code of 121, Madison County has a population of 16,773 and area of 561 square miles (1,453 km²).
List of all cities in Madison County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bevington, IA | 50033 | 641 |
| Conger, IA | 50240 | 641 |
| Earlham, IA | 50072 | 515 |
| Hanley, IA | 50240 | 641 |
| Macksburg, IA | 50155 | 641 |
| Patterson, IA | 50218 | 641 |
| Peru, IA | 50222 | 641 |
| Pitzer, IA | 50072 | 515 |
| Saint Charles, IA | 50240 | 641 |
| Truro, IA | 50257 | 641 |
| Wick, IA | 50240 | 641 |
| Winterset, IA | 50273 | 515 |
Major Cities and Towns in Madison County, Iowa
Winterset
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50273
- Latitude: 41.3319° N
- Longitude: 94.0144° W
City Location and History
Winterset, the county seat of Madison County, is located in south-central Iowa and was founded in 1849. The city is best known as the birthplace of famous actor John Wayne and for its collection of historic covered bridges, which gained international recognition through the novel and film The Bridges of Madison County. Winterset developed primarily as an agricultural hub, with its rich farmland attracting settlers. Its location near the Middle River also provided an important source of water and transportation. The city’s charming downtown area, with its historic courthouse and well-preserved 19th-century architecture, adds to Winterset’s appeal. Winterset continues to grow as a center for local tourism, agriculture, and small-town commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Winterset is served by the Winterset Community School District, with Winterset High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several key landmarks, including the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum, which celebrates the life of the iconic actor, and the Madison County Courthouse, a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The Winterset City Park, which houses the Clark Tower and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The city also hosts the annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival, celebrating the county’s unique history and covered bridges, which have become iconic symbols of the area.
Earlham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,450 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50072
- Latitude: 41.4944° N
- Longitude: 94.1256° W
City Location and History
Earlham is located in the northern part of Madison County, about 30 miles west of Des Moines. The town was founded in 1869 by Quaker settlers and was named after Earlham College in Indiana, a Quaker-affiliated institution. Earlham grew as an agricultural community, supported by the arrival of the railroad, which helped farmers transport their goods to larger markets. The town’s Quaker roots are still evident in its culture, with a focus on education and community service. Over the years, Earlham has grown steadily while retaining its small-town atmosphere and agricultural base.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Earlham is part of the Earlham Community School District, with Earlham High School serving the town’s students. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Earlham Public Library, a central gathering place for community events and educational programs. Earlham also features several well-preserved historic homes and buildings, reflecting its 19th-century roots. The town’s proximity to both the Middle and North Rivers offers opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. Earlham hosts an annual town festival that includes parades, live music, and local vendors, highlighting the community’s agricultural heritage and close-knit spirit.
St. Charles
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.59 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50240
- Latitude: 41.2881° N
- Longitude: 93.8086° W
City Location and History
St. Charles is located in the southeastern part of Madison County, along Interstate 35, making it easily accessible from nearby Des Moines. The town was founded in the 1850s and named after the city of St. Charles in Missouri. Like many small towns in Madison County, St. Charles developed as an agricultural community, with its early economy based on farming and livestock. The construction of the railroad in the late 19th century helped St. Charles grow by providing a means of transporting agricultural products. Today, the town remains a peaceful rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
St. Charles is part of the Interstate 35 Community School District, with students attending nearby Interstate 35 High School. A major landmark in the town is the historic Imes Covered Bridge, one of the famous covered bridges of Madison County, which attracts tourists and history enthusiasts. The town’s community park provides space for local events and recreation. Each year, St. Charles celebrates the St. Charles Old Settlers’ Days, a festival that includes parades, live entertainment, and local food vendors, reflecting the town’s strong community spirit and historical significance. Its quiet, rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle for its residents.
Truro
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.41 square miles
- Population: Approximately 480 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50257
- Latitude: 41.2094° N
- Longitude: 93.8447° W
City Location and History
Truro is a small town in southwestern Madison County, located near the Middle River. Established in 1881, Truro was named after Truro in Cornwall, England, by early settlers who had English heritage. The town grew as a farming community, benefiting from its fertile land and proximity to the river. Over the years, Truro remained a small, close-knit community with a focus on agriculture and family-oriented living. The town’s rural charm and peaceful atmosphere have made it a desirable location for those seeking a quiet lifestyle while being within commuting distance of larger cities like Des Moines.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Truro is also part of the Interstate 35 Community School District, with students attending Interstate 35 High School in nearby Truro. The town’s central park offers recreational facilities and hosts local events, including the annual Truro Farmers Market, which showcases local produce and crafts. Truro’s close proximity to the Middle River provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. The town’s historic Methodist church, built in the early 1900s, remains a focal point of the community. Truro’s small size and agricultural heritage give it a strong sense of community and rural charm.
Macksburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 110 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50155
- Latitude: 41.2397° N
- Longitude: 94.0664° W
City Location and History
Macksburg is a small town in southwestern Madison County, founded in 1873. The town’s name was derived from its founder, Elijah Mack, who played a significant role in its early development. Like many towns in the region, Macksburg began as an agricultural settlement, with local farmers producing crops and livestock. The arrival of the railroad helped the town grow, as it provided access to larger markets. Over time, Macksburg’s population remained small, but the town has preserved its rural character and agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Macksburg is part of the East Union Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Afton. The town is known for its peaceful rural setting and its annual Macksburg National Skillet Throw Championship, an unusual and popular local event that draws participants and spectators from surrounding areas. The event celebrates the town’s quirky charm and sense of community. Macksburg also features a small community park and several historic buildings that reflect its 19th-century origins. Its quiet atmosphere and connection to local farming make Macksburg a quintessential rural Iowa town.
Patterson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.10 square miles
- Population: Approximately 130 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50218
- Latitude: 41.3589° N
- Longitude: 93.9056° W
City Location and History
Patterson is located in the northern part of Madison County and was established in the late 1800s. The town was named after an early settler, Alexander Patterson, who helped to establish the community. Patterson developed as a small agricultural town, with farming being the primary occupation for most residents. Its location near the Des Moines metropolitan area has allowed Patterson to remain a quiet residential community, offering rural charm while providing easy access to the amenities of larger cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Patterson is part of the Winterset Community School District, with students attending Winterset High School. A key landmark in the town is the Patterson United Methodist Church, which has been a central part of the community for over a century. The town’s small park provides a green space for local events and gatherings. Patterson hosts a few community events throughout the year, including local picnics and holiday celebrations, reflecting its close-knit community spirit. The town’s quiet rural environment and proximity to Winterset make it a peaceful place to live, ideal for families seeking a slower pace of life.