Cities and Towns in Wright County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Wright County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Wright County was formed from Webster County and Kossuth County. The city of Clarion is the county seat. With FIPS code of 197, Wright County has a population of 12,785 and area of 581 square miles (1,505 km²).

List of all cities in Wright County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Belmond, IA	50421	641
Clarion, IA	50525	515
	50526	515
Cornelia, IA	50525	515
Dows, IA	50071	515
Eagle Grove, IA	50533	515
EDS, IA	50526	515
Galt, IA	50101	515
Goldfield, IA	50542	515
Holmes, IA	50525	515
Rowan, IA	50470	641
Woolstock, IA	50599	515

Major Cities and Towns in Wright County, Iowa

Clarion, Iowa

Overview and History

Clarion is the county seat and largest city in Wright County, Iowa, located in the north-central part of the state. The town was founded in 1865 and became the county seat due to its central location. Clarion developed as an agricultural hub, with farming and grain production playing a significant role in its early economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred its growth, connecting local farmers to larger markets. Clarion is also known for being the birthplace of the 4-H Club emblem, which was created by a local school superintendent in 1907. Today, Clarion remains a thriving agricultural community, with its economy centered on farming, education, and local businesses.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Clarion is served by the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Community School District, with Clarion-Goldfield-Dows High School being the main educational institution. Notable landmarks in the town include the Wright County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1891, and the Clarion Public Library. Another key landmark is the birthplace of the 4-H Club emblem, commemorated with a monument in downtown Clarion. The Heartland Museum, located in the town, showcases the region’s agricultural history and hosts events throughout the year. Clarion also features a range of recreational facilities, including parks, golf courses, and walking trails.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 3.32 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,810 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 50525
• Latitude: 42.7317° N
• Longitude: 93.7361° W

Eagle Grove, Iowa

Overview and History

Eagle Grove is the second-largest city in Wright County, located in the southwestern part of the county. Established in 1881 along the Chicago and North Western Railway, Eagle Grove quickly became a railroad town, with the railway serving as the town’s economic backbone. The name “Eagle Grove” was chosen to reflect the large number of eagles nesting in the nearby grove of trees. Over time, the town expanded its economy to include agriculture, particularly corn and soybean production. Despite changes in the railroad industry, Eagle Grove has maintained its small-town charm and continues to be an important agricultural and transportation center.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eagle Grove is part of the Eagle Grove Community School District, with Eagle Grove High School serving as the town’s primary educational institution. Key landmarks in the town include the historic Eagle Grove Carnegie Library, built in 1903, and the Railroad Museum, which celebrates the town’s railroading past. Greenwood Park is another prominent feature, providing residents with recreational space for outdoor activities. Each year, Eagle Grove hosts the Summerfest celebration, which includes parades, live music, and community events that bring residents and visitors together.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 4.45 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,583 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 50533
• Latitude: 42.6644° N
• Longitude: 93.9044° W

Belmond, Iowa

Overview and History

Belmond is a small city located in the northern part of Wright County. It was founded in 1856 and grew as a farming community, benefiting from its fertile soil and access to the nearby Iowa River. The town’s development accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. Belmond is historically known for surviving a devastating F5 tornado in 1966, which caused significant damage but led to a strong rebuilding effort. The town’s resilience is reflected in its motto, “Belmond is strong!” Today, agriculture continues to be the backbone of Belmond’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and livestock production playing key roles.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Belmond is part of the Belmond-Klemme Community School District, with Belmond-Klemme High School serving as the town’s main school. Notable landmarks include the Belmond Historical Museum, which preserves the town’s history, and Luick Memorial Swimming Pool, a popular spot for recreation. The Iowa River offers opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Belmond’s annual community events, including the Fourth of July celebration, bring residents together and emphasize the town’s tight-knit community spirit. The downtown area features a mix of historic buildings and modern businesses, highlighting Belmond’s blend of history and growth.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 2.96 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,463 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 50421
• Latitude: 42.8489° N
• Longitude: 93.6131° W

Dows, Iowa

Overview and History

Dows is a small town located in the southeastern part of Wright County. Founded in 1880 along the Chicago and North Western Railway, Dows grew as a rural farming community. The town was named after Silas Dows, an early settler and prominent landowner in the area. The town’s economy has traditionally been tied to agriculture, with local farmers producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. Though small, Dows has a rich history, reflected in its well-preserved downtown buildings and historic sites. The town’s rural character and strong sense of community have made it a quiet, peaceful place to live.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dows is part of the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Clarion. The town’s main landmarks include the Dows Depot Welcome Center, a restored historic train depot that serves as a museum and tourist information center. The Dows Mercantile and Quasdorf Blacksmith Shop Museum offer visitors a glimpse into the town’s past, showcasing artifacts and tools from the early 20th century. Dows is also known for its annual Corn Days Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, food, and live entertainment.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.97 square miles
• Population: Approximately 481 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 50071
• Latitude: 42.6558° N
• Longitude: 93.4975° W

Galt, Iowa

Overview and History

Galt is a small unincorporated community in Wright County, located south of Clarion. Galt was founded in the late 19th century as a rural farming community. Its name is believed to have been inspired by the Scottish town of Galt. Like many small Iowa communities, Galt’s economy has historically revolved around agriculture, particularly the production of corn, soybeans, and livestock. Although it remains a small, unincorporated town, Galt continues to play a role in the agricultural landscape of Wright County, with farms surrounding the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Galt is part of the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Clarion. Due to its small size, Galt does not have major landmarks within its borders, but its location near Clarion provides residents with access to local attractions like the Heartland Museum and recreational activities at nearby lakes and parks. The rural landscape surrounding Galt offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and birdwatching, while its quiet atmosphere makes it a peaceful place to live.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 32 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 50101
• Latitude: 42.6350° N
• Longitude: 93.6339° W