History of Appanoose County, Iowa
Appanoose County, located in the southeastern corner of Iowa, has a rich history that spans from its early Native American inhabitants to its development as an important agricultural and coal mining region. Established in 1843, the county was named after the Appanoose Tribe of the Sauk and Fox people who originally inhabited the area. Over the years, Appanoose County has been shaped by waves of settlers, the establishment of railroads, and the mining industry. Today, the county is known for its small-town charm, historical sites, and natural beauty, with its scenic lakes and parks offering a glimpse into the past.
Origins and Key Historical Events
Early Native American Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, Appanoose County was home to the Appanoose Tribe of the Sauk and Fox nations, who lived along the Des Moines River and its tributaries. These tribes relied heavily on the natural resources of the area, including the abundant wildlife, rivers, and forests, for hunting, fishing, and trading.
In the early 1800s, as the United States expanded westward, the region began to see pressure from European settlers. As part of the Indian Removal Act of 1830, many Native American tribes were forced to leave their ancestral lands and relocate westward. The Appanoose Tribe was eventually moved to reservations in Kansas, and the area became open for settlement by European Americans.
Settlement and Founding of Appanoose County
Appanoose County was officially established in 1843, with the first white settlers arriving in the 1830s. The area was originally part of Monroe County, but as more settlers arrived, it became necessary to carve out a new county to accommodate the growing population. The county was named after the Appanoose Tribe, acknowledging the area’s Native American heritage.
The first permanent settlement in Appanoose County was established along the Des Moines River. The fertile land and proximity to the river made it an attractive area for farming. The town of Centerville was established as the county seat, and it quickly became the county’s largest town.
Economic Development and Railroads
In the mid-19th century, Appanoose County became known for its role in agriculture and industry. Early settlers in the region cultivated crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans, and livestock farming, particularly cattle and hogs, became a staple of the county’s economy. The fertile soil, combined with the area’s extensive river systems, made Appanoose County an ideal location for agriculture.
However, one of the most significant events in Appanoose County’s history was the arrival of the railroad. The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad arrived in Centerville in the 1850s, opening up the county to new markets for its agricultural products. The railroad also made it easier for settlers to travel to and from the area, contributing to the county’s rapid growth.
The Coal Mining Era
In the late 19th century, coal mining became an important part of Appanoose County’s economy. The county is rich in coal deposits, and by the 1870s, the first coal mines were opened. The mining industry brought in many workers, including a large population of immigrants, particularly from Eastern Europe. The booming coal industry attracted not only miners but also entrepreneurs who established businesses to serve the growing population.
The town of Moulton became a major center of coal production, with several mines operating in the area. Mining operations were often dangerous, and the workers faced harsh conditions, but the industry was vital to the region’s economic growth. As the demand for coal grew, Appanoose County became one of Iowa’s leading coal producers, and the population of Centerville and surrounding towns continued to increase.
The Decline of Coal Mining and Agricultural Shifts
By the early 20th century, coal mining in Appanoose County began to decline as the coal reserves were exhausted, and mining technology advanced. The decline of the coal industry hit the county hard, as many miners lost their jobs, and the towns that had flourished during the coal boom began to experience economic hardship.
At the same time, farming in the region was undergoing a transformation. The advent of new farming techniques and machinery, such as the tractor and combine harvester, increased productivity, but the number of small family farms began to decrease as agriculture became more industrialized. The county’s economy shifted toward larger farming operations, and many people left the rural areas in search of work in urban centers.
20th Century and Modern Day
In the mid-20th century, Appanoose County began to focus on diversifying its economy. The county invested in infrastructure improvements, such as highways and public services, to attract new industries and encourage tourism. The development of Lake Rathbun in the 1960s became a significant turning point for tourism in the area. The lake, with its boating and fishing opportunities, attracted visitors from across the state and beyond, boosting the local economy.
Today, Appanoose County remains largely rural but has transitioned away from coal mining to a more diversified economy with agriculture, tourism, and services playing central roles. The county’s small towns, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes continue to make it a popular destination for visitors interested in Iowa’s rich history and natural beauty.
Historical Sites in Appanoose County
1. The Appanoose County Historical Society Museum
Overview
The Appanoose County Historical Society Museum, located in Centerville, offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the county’s history from its early Native American inhabitants to its mining days and agricultural heritage. The museum features exhibits on coal mining, agriculture, and railroad history, with an impressive collection of photographs, tools, and artifacts from the county’s past.
Location:
304 E. Maple Street, Centerville, IA 52544
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $5
- Children (under 12): Free
Parking Information:
Free parking is available in a public lot near the museum.
2. Rathbun Lake
Overview
Rathbun Lake, a 2,400-acre reservoir in the southeastern part of Appanoose County, is a popular recreational site with a rich history. Originally constructed for flood control in the 1960s, the lake has since become a hub for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area around Rathbun Lake offers scenic views and a number of parks and campgrounds for visitors.
Location:
Rathbun Lake, near Moravia, IA.
Ticket Price:
- Free public access to the lake; fees for camping or boat ramps may apply.
Parking Information:
Several free parking lots are available at Rathbun Lake recreation areas, including near the boat ramps and parks.
3. The Moulton Coal Mining District
Overview
The Moulton Coal Mining District preserves the history of one of Appanoose County’s most significant industries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although much of the mining infrastructure has been dismantled, the district remains a historic site that commemorates the role of coal mining in the development of the region. The district includes historical markers and remnants of old mining structures that tell the story of the immigrants who worked in the mines and the communities that grew around the coal industry.
Location:
Moulton, IA, in the western part of Appanoose County.
Ticket Price:
- Free access to the historical site.
Parking Information:
Street parking is available in the town of Moulton.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Appanoose County is located in the southeastern corner of Iowa, bordered by Monroe County to the north, Wayne County to the west, and Lucas County to the south. The county is characterized by rolling prairie land, forests, and several lakes, including Lake Rathbun, which is the county’s largest body of water. The Des Moines River also flows through the western part of the county.
Appanoose County experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with snowfall common from December to March. Summers are typically warm, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
Key County Statistics
- Year Founded: 1843
- County Seat: Centerville
- Population: Approximately 12,000
- Population Density: 35 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Centerville, Moulton, Moravia
- Major Highways: U.S. Route 5, Iowa Highway 2, Iowa Highway 202
- Adjacent Counties:
- Monroe County (north)
- Wayne County (west)
- Lucas County (south)
- Appanoose County, Missouri (east)