Cities and Towns in Pocahontas County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Pocahontas County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Pocahontas County was formed from Greene County and Humboldt County. The city of Pocahontas is the county seat. With FIPS code of 151, Pocahontas County has a population of 7,074 and area of 578 square miles (1,497 km²).
List of all cities in Pocahontas County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fonda, IA | 50540 | 712 |
| Havelock, IA | 50546 | 712 |
| Industry, IA | 50540 | 712 |
| Laurens, IA | 50554 | 712 |
| Palmer, IA | 50571 | 712 |
| Plover, IA | 50573 | 712 |
| Pocahontas, IA | 50574 | 712 |
| Rolfe, IA | 50581 | 712 |
| Varina, IA | 50593 | 712 |
| Ware, IA | 50546 | 712 |
Major Cities and Towns in Pocahontas County, Iowa
Pocahontas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50574
- Latitude: 42.7344° N
- Longitude: 94.6781° W
City Location and History
Pocahontas, the county seat of Pocahontas County, is located in northwestern Iowa. Founded in the late 1800s, the city was named after the Native American princess Pocahontas, who is famously associated with the early colonial history of the United States. Pocahontas grew as a regional center for agriculture, benefiting from its position along the Des Moines River. The city played a key role in the county’s early agricultural development, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the main products. Over time, Pocahontas has retained its rural charm while modernizing to support local businesses, education, and healthcare services, making it a hub for the surrounding farming communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pocahontas is part of the Pocahontas Area Community School District, with Pocahontas Area High School being the central educational institution. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is the 25-foot-tall statue of Pocahontas, which symbolizes the town’s namesake and serves as a prominent attraction for visitors. The town also features the Pocahontas County Historical Museum, which preserves local history and artifacts. Elbert Park provides recreational opportunities with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. Each year, the Pocahontas Heritage Days Festival celebrates the city’s history and community spirit with parades, games, and entertainment.
Laurens
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.92 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50554
- Latitude: 42.8469° N
- Longitude: 94.8503° W
City Location and History
Laurens is located in the northern part of Pocahontas County. Founded in the late 19th century and named after Henry Laurens, a notable statesman from the American Revolution, the town developed primarily as an agricultural community. Laurens benefited from its proximity to the railroad, which allowed local farmers to transport their grain and livestock to broader markets. Over the decades, Laurens has maintained its agricultural heritage while diversifying its economy with small businesses and services that support the local population. The town is known for its friendly, close-knit atmosphere, where agriculture remains the backbone of the community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Laurens is served by the Laurens-Marathon Community School District, with Laurens-Marathon High School playing a central role in the town’s educational system. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Laurens Public Library, which offers a range of community programs. The nearby Sportsman’s Park, located along the West Fork of the Des Moines River, provides fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities. Laurens also hosts an annual celebration known as Laurens Summerfest, which features parades, live music, and family-friendly activities, drawing residents and visitors together to celebrate the town’s history and community spirit.
Rolfe
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 550 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50581
- Latitude: 42.8144° N
- Longitude: 94.5358° W
City Location and History
Rolfe is located in northeastern Pocahontas County and was founded in 1881. The town was named after John Rolfe, an English settler who famously married Pocahontas, reflecting the area’s connection to Native American history. Like many towns in the region, Rolfe developed as an agricultural community, with its economy based on farming and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred its growth, making Rolfe a key agricultural center for the surrounding areas. Despite its small size, Rolfe has a rich history and strong community ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rolfe is part of the Pocahontas Area Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Pocahontas. One of Rolfe’s major landmarks is the Rolfe Public Library, which serves as a gathering place for local residents. Another significant site is the Pioneer Museum, which highlights the town’s history and showcases artifacts from its early days. The nearby Rolfe Memorial Park offers green spaces, sports fields, and picnic areas for outdoor activities. The town celebrates its heritage with an annual event called Rolfe’s Community Celebration, which includes parades, games, and social gatherings that reflect the town’s strong sense of community.
Fonda
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.85 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50540
- Latitude: 42.5847° N
- Longitude: 94.8439° W
City Location and History
Fonda is located in the southern part of Pocahontas County and was founded in 1870. Originally called “Marathon,” the town’s name was later changed to Fonda after Fonda, New York, reflecting the heritage of early settlers. Fonda grew as an agricultural town, with its economy centered around farming, particularly corn and soybeans. The arrival of the railroad helped the town flourish in its early years, as it provided essential transport for agricultural goods. Although small, Fonda continues to serve as a vital agricultural community, with deep ties to its farming roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fonda is part of the Newell-Fonda Community School District, with Newell-Fonda High School located nearby. One of Fonda’s key landmarks is the Fonda Public Library, which offers a range of community programs and resources. The town is also home to the historic Fonda Opera House, which hosts various performances and events, showcasing local talent and culture. The annual Fonda Town Festival is a highlight for residents, featuring parades, local vendors, and entertainment that bring the community together to celebrate its heritage. The nearby Twin Lakes area provides recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.
Havelock
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.23 square miles
- Population: Approximately 125 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50546
- Latitude: 42.8028° N
- Longitude: 94.6972° W
City Location and History
Havelock is a small town located in the central part of Pocahontas County. Founded in the late 19th century, Havelock was named after Sir Henry Havelock, a British general. Like many small towns in the region, Havelock developed as a farming community, with its economy closely tied to agriculture. Over the years, the town’s population has remained small, but it continues to serve as a residential and agricultural hub for the surrounding farmlands. Havelock is known for its rural tranquility and strong sense of community, with farming remaining the primary economic activity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Havelock is part of the Pocahontas Area Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Pocahontas. The town’s main landmark is Havelock City Park, which offers a playground, picnic areas, and green spaces for local gatherings. Although small, Havelock takes pride in its community events, including local picnics and town festivals. The town’s peaceful rural setting and friendly residents make it a welcoming place for families and visitors. Havelock’s close proximity to larger towns in the county ensures that residents have access to necessary services while enjoying the quiet charm of rural life.
Palmer
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50571
- Latitude: 42.6314° N
- Longitude: 94.5297° W
City Location and History
Palmer is located in the southwestern part of Pocahontas County. Founded in the late 19th century, the town was named after a local landowner and early settler. Palmer developed primarily as an agricultural town, with its economy based on the production of crops like corn and soybeans. Although the town has remained small, it has maintained its agricultural focus and rural charm. Palmer’s history is deeply connected to the surrounding farmland, and the town serves as a small, but important, center for local farmers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Palmer is part of the Pocahontas Area Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby communities. Palmer’s main landmark is Palmer City Park, which serves as a gathering place for local events and recreational activities. The town hosts an annual community celebration, which brings residents together for a weekend of fun, including games, food vendors, and social activities. The peaceful atmosphere of Palmer and its commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage make it a tight-knit community where neighbors support each other, and local traditions are upheld.
