Cities and Towns in Van Buren County, Iowa
Founded on Dec 7, 1836, Van Buren County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Van Buren County was formed from Des Moines County. The city of Keosauqua is the county seat. With FIPS code of 177, Van Buren County has a population of 7,243 and area of 485 square miles (1,256 km²).
List of all cities in Van Buren County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Birmingham, IA | 52535 | 319 |
| Bonaparte, IA | 52620 | 319 |
| Cantril, IA | 52542 | 319 |
| Cantril, IA | 52573 | 319 |
| Douds, IA | 52551 | 641 |
| Farmington, IA | 52626 | 319 |
| Keosauqua, IA | 52565 | 319 |
| Kilbourn, IA | 52535 | 319 |
| Leando, IA | 52551 | 641 |
| Milton, IA | 52570 | 641 |
| Mount Sterling, IA | 52573 | 319 |
| Selma, IA | 52588 | 641 |
| Stockport, IA | 52651 | 319 |
| White Elm, IA | 52588 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Van Buren County, Iowa
Keosauqua
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.56 square miles
- Population: Approximately 950 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52565
- Latitude: 40.7344° N
- Longitude: 91.9590° W
City Location and History
Keosauqua is the county seat of Van Buren County, located along the scenic banks of the Des Moines River in southeastern Iowa. Established in 1839, Keosauqua is one of the oldest towns in Iowa. Its name comes from a Native American term meaning “big bend,” referring to the significant curve in the Des Moines River at this location. The town quickly developed as a regional trading hub, benefiting from its river location and the early construction of mills and businesses. Keosauqua is home to the historic Van Buren County Courthouse, the oldest courthouse in continuous use in Iowa, built in 1843. The town is known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Keosauqua is served by the Van Buren County Community School District, with Van Buren County High School being a central educational institution in the area. Key landmarks include the Hotel Manning, a historic riverfront hotel built in the 1890s, and Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, one of Iowa’s largest and oldest state parks, offering hiking trails, camping, and stunning views of the Des Moines River. The town also features the Pearson House, an important stop on the Underground Railroad, showcasing Keosauqua’s deep historical roots.
Bonaparte
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.35 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52620
- Latitude: 40.6992° N
- Longitude: 91.8007° W
City Location and History
Bonaparte is a picturesque town located on the banks of the Des Moines River in Van Buren County. It was founded in 1837 and named after Napoleon Bonaparte. In the 19th century, Bonaparte thrived as a milling town, with the Bonaparte Pottery and Bonaparte Mill Complex serving as key drivers of the local economy. Many of the town’s original buildings from this period still stand, giving the town a distinct historical charm. Bonaparte is part of the Villages of Van Buren, a collection of small towns in the county known for their preservation of historic architecture and culture. Today, Bonaparte is a peaceful, rural community known for its river views and small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bonaparte is part of the Van Buren County Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Keosauqua. The Bonaparte Historic Riverfront District is the town’s major landmark, featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. The Bonaparte Pottery building is also a key site, representing the town’s industrial heritage. Bonaparte’s annual fall festival, Fall Festival Days, celebrates the town’s history and community spirit. The Des Moines River provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and riverside picnics, making the town a charming retreat for visitors and locals alike.
Milton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.51 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52570
- Latitude: 40.6744° N
- Longitude: 92.1633° W
City Location and History
Milton is a small, rural town located in the northeastern part of Van Buren County, near the Iowa-Missouri border. Founded in the mid-19th century, Milton served as a local center for agriculture and trade, benefiting from the fertile farmland surrounding the area. The town’s early economy was supported by farming and small businesses catering to the local agricultural community. Over the years, Milton has remained a quiet and close-knit community, maintaining its agricultural roots. The town’s history is reflected in its many historic homes and buildings, some of which date back to the 1800s.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Milton is served by the Van Buren County Community School District, with schools located in nearby communities such as Keosauqua. A key local landmark is Milton Christian Church, a historic building that has served the community since the 19th century. The Milton Heritage Society works to preserve the town’s history, including its historic homes and public buildings. The town is also home to several antique shops and small businesses that reflect its rural heritage. The rolling countryside around Milton offers scenic drives and opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting and fishing in nearby lakes and rivers.
Farmington
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52626
- Latitude: 40.6409° N
- Longitude: 91.7439° W
City Location and History
Farmington is located in the southwestern part of Van Buren County, along the Des Moines River near the Missouri border. Established in 1839, Farmington quickly became a center for trade and industry due to its river access. The town grew around its mills and factories, including a large button factory that operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Farmington’s location made it a natural hub for river trade, and the town prospered throughout the 19th century. Today, Farmington is known for its historical charm and is part of the Villages of Van Buren, a collection of historic communities in the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Farmington is part of the Van Buren County Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns. The Farmington Historic District is a major landmark, featuring 19th-century homes and buildings that highlight the town’s rich history. The Indian Lake Park, located just outside of town, is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and hiking, offering a serene natural escape. Farmington’s downtown area also features antique shops and historic buildings, adding to the town’s small-town charm. Each year, Farmington hosts the Scenic Drive Festival, drawing visitors to experience its historical architecture and natural beauty.
Birmingham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 440 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52535
- Latitude: 40.8701° N
- Longitude: 91.9421° W
City Location and History
Birmingham is a small town located in the northern part of Van Buren County, surrounded by rich farmland and scenic landscapes. Founded in 1839, Birmingham was an early pioneer settlement and quickly became a local trading post for the surrounding agricultural areas. The town grew steadily throughout the 19th century, with businesses and services catering to local farmers. Its location along key transportation routes helped it flourish as a small community hub. Although Birmingham has remained small, it continues to be a close-knit rural community known for its peaceful setting and agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Birmingham is served by the Van Buren County Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Keosauqua. The town features several historic homes and churches, reflecting its long history as an agricultural community. The Birmingham Lions Building is a key landmark, hosting local events and serving as a community center. Additionally, Birmingham is located near Shimek State Forest, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. The surrounding countryside provides a beautiful backdrop for the town, making it a tranquil place for residents and visitors alike.
Cantril
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 52542
- Latitude: 40.6406° N
- Longitude: 92.0643° W
City Location and History
Cantril is a tiny town located in the eastern part of Van Buren County. Founded in 1871, Cantril was named after Charles Cantril, an early settler who played a major role in establishing the town. Like many rural Iowa towns, Cantril developed as an agricultural community, serving local farmers with grain mills, general stores, and other services. Its population has remained small over the decades, contributing to its quiet, rural charm. Despite its size, Cantril is part of the Villages of Van Buren, known for preserving the unique historical and cultural heritage of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cantril is part of the Van Buren County Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby communities such as Keosauqua. The town’s primary landmark is the Dutchman’s Store, a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide variety of goods from groceries to handmade items. Cantril also features several historic homes and buildings, adding to its quaint, small-town atmosphere. The rolling farmland surrounding Cantril provides scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
