Cities and Towns in Ringgold County, Iowa
Founded on Feb 24, 1847, Ringgold County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Ringgold County was formed from Taylor County. The city of Mount Ayr is the county seat. With FIPS code of 159, Ringgold County has a population of 4,639 and area of 538 square miles (1,393 km²).
List of all cities in Ringgold County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaconsfield, IA | 50074 | 641 |
| Benton, IA | 50835 | 641 |
| Delphos, IA | 50860 | 641 |
| Diagonal, IA | 50845 | 641 |
| Ellston, IA | 50074 | 641 |
| Kellerton, IA | 50133 | 641 |
| Mount Ayr, IA | 50854 | 641 |
| Redding, IA | 50860 | 641 |
| Tingley, IA | 50863 | 641 |
| Tuskeego, IA | 50133 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ringgold County, Iowa
Mount Ayr
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.87 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,650 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50854
- Latitude: 40.7128° N
- Longitude: 94.2341° W
City Location and History
Mount Ayr, the county seat of Ringgold County, is located in southern Iowa, close to the Missouri border. Founded in 1855 and named after the poet Robert Burns’ hometown in Scotland, Mount Ayr quickly became the economic and administrative center of the county. Its strategic location along early wagon trails and later the arrival of the railroad allowed the town to thrive as an agricultural hub. The town’s economy has traditionally been centered around farming and livestock, and it continues to serve as a key trade center for the surrounding rural areas. Over the years, Mount Ayr has maintained its historical charm, with several preserved buildings and a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Ayr is part of the Mount Ayr Community School District, with Mount Ayr High School serving local students. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Ringgold County Courthouse, built in 1927, and the Judge Lewis House, a historic home on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mount Ayr Public Library and the Princess Theater, an old-fashioned movie theater, are central to the community’s cultural life. Fife’s Grove Park, located just outside of town, offers recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, and picnicking. Mount Ayr hosts the annual Ringgold County Fair, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and community spirit.
Diagonal
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 320 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50845
- Latitude: 40.8108° N
- Longitude: 94.3403° W
City Location and History
Diagonal is a small town in northwestern Ringgold County. Founded in 1888, the town’s name comes from the diagonal route of the railroad that ran through it, creating a key transportation link for local farmers. The town flourished during its early years as an agricultural hub, with the railroad providing vital connections for shipping grain and livestock to larger markets. Like many rural Iowa towns, Diagonal has seen its population decline over the years, but it remains a close-knit community with a rich agricultural heritage. The town’s small size and rural charm contribute to its peaceful atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Diagonal is part of the Diagonal Community School District, one of the smallest school districts in Iowa, with Diagonal High School serving local students. A key landmark in Diagonal is the Diagonal Printing Museum, which preserves the history of the town’s once-thriving printing industry. The Diagonal Community Building is another focal point for local gatherings and events. Each year, the town hosts the Diagonal Labor Day Celebration, which includes a parade, games, and a barbecue, bringing residents and visitors together for a weekend of fun. The surrounding farmland provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, adding to the town’s rural charm.
Kellerton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.60 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50133
- Latitude: 40.7106° N
- Longitude: 94.0523° W
City Location and History
Kellerton is located in the southeastern part of Ringgold County and was founded in the 1870s, named after early settler Silas Keller. The town developed as a small farming community, with agriculture being the primary economic driver. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century contributed to the town’s early growth, allowing farmers to transport their products more efficiently. Over time, Kellerton has maintained its agricultural identity, with farming and livestock production still playing a central role in the town’s economy. Its rural setting and small-town feel make it a peaceful place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kellerton is part of the Mount Ayr Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Ayr. A notable local landmark is the Kellerton City Park, which provides green space for recreation and community events. Kellerton also has a historic downtown area, with several buildings reflecting its 19th-century origins. The Kellerton Bird Conservation Area, located just outside of town, is a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Each year, the town hosts the Kellerton Independence Day Celebration, which includes fireworks, a parade, and local entertainment, highlighting the community’s strong sense of togetherness.
Tingley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50863
- Latitude: 40.8183° N
- Longitude: 94.1033° W
City Location and History
Tingley is a small town located in northeastern Ringgold County. It was founded in the late 19th century and named after an early settler, Tingley, who played a major role in the town’s development. Like many towns in the region, Tingley grew as an agricultural community, with the railroad playing a key role in its growth. The town served as a local center for farmers, providing goods and services to the surrounding agricultural areas. Though small, Tingley has retained its rural character and close-knit community spirit over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tingley is part of the Mount Ayr Community School District, with students attending schools in Mount Ayr. One of the key landmarks in Tingley is the Tingley Community Building, which hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for residents. The town also features several small parks and green spaces, offering recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Tingley’s annual celebration, Tingley Days, brings the community together for a weekend of festivities, including games, food vendors, and live entertainment. The town’s rural setting and strong community values make it a pleasant place to live, with agriculture remaining a key part of the local economy.
Redding
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 square miles
- Population: Approximately 75 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50860
- Latitude: 40.5850° N
- Longitude: 94.4697° W
City Location and History
Redding is located in the southwestern part of Ringgold County, near the Missouri state line. Founded in the 1880s, Redding grew as a small agricultural town, with its economy based on farming and livestock. The town was named after a local landowner, and it played a key role as a service center for the surrounding rural areas. Like many small Iowa towns, Redding’s population has declined over the years, but it retains a strong sense of community and a deep connection to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Redding is also part of the Mount Ayr Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Mount Ayr. The town’s primary landmark is Redding Park, which serves as a gathering place for residents and offers recreational facilities. Redding is surrounded by farmland, making it a peaceful location for those who enjoy rural living. The town hosts occasional community events, bringing together residents for local celebrations and social gatherings. Redding’s small size and quiet atmosphere make it a tight-knit community, where neighbors know each other and work together to preserve the town’s way of life.
