History of Audubon County, Iowa
Audubon County, located in western Iowa, is a rural community with a rich history shaped by early settlement, agriculture, and its strategic position along transportation routes. The county was established in 1851 and named after the famous naturalist John James Audubon, known for his extensive studies of North American birdlife. Audubon County has historically been an agricultural hub, with farming and related industries playing a key role in its development. Over the years, the county has seen the rise of small towns, the expansion of railroads, and the preservation of natural landscapes, all contributing to its unique character today.
Origins and Early History
Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, the area that would become Audubon County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Sioux, the Sauk, and the Fox. These tribes lived in the region for centuries, utilizing its fertile soil for hunting and gathering. They followed migratory patterns, moving through the area in search of game and food sources like buffalo, elk, and deer. The area’s rich natural resources made it an attractive location for these indigenous peoples.
When European settlers began to move westward, conflicts arose between the Native American tribes and the new arrivals, eventually leading to the forced relocation of many Native peoples. The land that would become Audubon County was ceded to the U.S. government following treaties in the early 1800s. This opened the door for settlers seeking farmland in what was then Iowa Territory.
European Settlement and Pioneers
The first European settlers to arrive in Audubon County were primarily of German, Norwegian, and Scandinavian descent. These early pioneers were drawn to the area by the fertile soil, ideal for agriculture. The county’s first permanent settlement occurred in the early 1850s, as settlers staked claims under the federal Homestead Act, which provided land to individuals willing to farm it.
In 1851, Audubon County was formally established, named after the renowned naturalist John James Audubon, who had conducted extensive studies of bird species in North America. The name served as a tribute to his contributions to American natural history and his love of the environment, which resonated with the new settlers who had come to the area to build new lives.
During the early years of settlement, Audubon County was largely a frontier landscape, with little infrastructure. The early settlers relied on wagon trains and primitive roads to transport goods and supplies. They built homes, barns, and churches, forming small communities that would grow into the county’s present-day towns.
Establishment of County Government
In 1851, the first county government was established in Audubon County. At this time, the county seat was initially located in the town of Audubon, which had been founded shortly before the county’s creation. The early county government was tasked with organizing roads, schools, and local infrastructure, but challenges such as financial constraints, lack of transportation, and a scarcity of labor meant that progress was slow.
By the late 1850s, the railroad was extended into the region, which helped to facilitate the movement of goods and people. The railroad played a significant role in the development of Audubon County, as it opened up trade routes for local farmers to export their products to larger markets in cities like Des Moines and Omaha.
Civil War and Post-War Development
Though Iowa was far removed from the direct battles of the American Civil War, the conflict had an impact on Audubon County. Many young men from the area enlisted in the Union Army, with some serving in the various regiments that fought in the western theaters of war. After the Civil War, the county saw continued growth as the agricultural economy began to flourish. The railroad continued to expand, connecting Audubon County to other parts of Iowa and beyond.
The post-war period saw the growth of townships and the construction of more roads, making transportation easier and fostering greater community development. New businesses sprang up in the towns, and the county became more connected to the larger state and national economies.
20th Century Developments
Agricultural Boom and Economic Expansion
By the early 20th century, Audubon County had become a center for agriculture, particularly for corn, wheat, and livestock. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farming, and agricultural practices continued to develop with the introduction of new technology. The rise of mechanized farming in the early 1900s allowed for larger-scale production and more efficient cultivation of crops.
In addition to agriculture, the county began to see a diversification of its economy. Small businesses related to farming, including grain mills, feed stores, and equipment dealerships, grew alongside the farming community. The towns of Audubon, Exira, and Brayton became key economic centers in the county, with local schools, churches, and civic organizations playing important roles in shaping the social fabric of the region.
The Great Depression and Recovery
Like much of the United States, Audubon County was deeply affected by the Great Depression of the 1930s. Farmers, who had been hit hard by a series of crop failures and falling commodity prices, struggled to make a living. The federal government implemented programs such as the New Deal to aid farmers, and many local families received assistance through initiatives like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Despite the challenges, the residents of Audubon County showed resilience. The county slowly recovered in the years following the Depression, as agricultural prices stabilized and businesses began to rebound. By the mid-20th century, Audubon County had emerged from the worst of the economic struggles, although the agricultural economy remained the county’s main industry.
Post-War Growth and Changing Demographics
In the decades following World War II, Audubon County, like many rural areas, experienced changes in population dynamics. Many younger people moved to cities in search of better educational and employment opportunities, leading to a gradual decline in population. However, the county maintained its agricultural roots, with new generations of farmers continuing the work of their predecessors.
The 1950s and 1960s saw the consolidation of many rural school districts, as transportation became more accessible and fewer small schools were needed. The county also saw the development of more modern infrastructure, including better roads and expanded utilities. Though many people left for urban centers, the county’s quality of life remained high, with strong community ties, excellent public schools, and a slower pace of life.
Historical Sites in Audubon County
1. Audubon County Historical Society Museum
Overview
The Audubon County Historical Society Museum is a local treasure, preserving the county’s agricultural and pioneer heritage. Exhibits highlight the lives of early settlers, agricultural development, and the impact of the railroad on the region’s economy. The museum also features exhibits on local Native American history, as well as the town of Audubon’s role in the wider state history.
Location
201 N. Park St, Audubon, IA
Ticket Price
$5 for adults, free for children under 12
Parking Information
Ample parking is available behind the museum.
2. Viking Lake State Park
Overview
Viking Lake State Park, established in the 1930s, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Audubon County. The park, which features a picturesque lake, is ideal for fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. The park’s history is intertwined with the development of Iowa’s state park system and the federal government’s New Deal-era public works programs. Today, Viking Lake remains a key attraction for residents and visitors alike.
Location
Lakeview Dr, Villisca, IA
Ticket Price
Free admission; camping fees apply
Parking Information
Ample parking is available at the park’s entrance and around the lake.
3. The Brayton Depot
Overview
The Brayton Depot, located in the small town of Brayton, is a historical railroad station that once served as a key stop on the rail line that ran through Audubon County. Today, the depot is preserved as a historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into the importance of railroads in the county’s development. The building features exhibits on the role of the railroad in shaping Audubon County and surrounding areas.
Location
Main St & 2nd Ave, Brayton, IA
Ticket Price
Free admission
Parking Information
Street parking is available around the depot.
4. Exira Historical Museum
Overview
The Exira Historical Museum celebrates the heritage of Exira, one of the oldest towns in Audubon County. The museum’s exhibits focus on the history of settlement, local agriculture, and the development of the town. The museum also features artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, providing insights into the everyday lives of Exira’s early residents.
Location
101 E. 5th St, Exira, IA
Ticket Price
Free admission, donations welcome
Parking Information
Parking is available in front of the museum.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Audubon County covers an area of 443 square miles, with a mix of flat prairies and gently rolling hills. The county is located in western Iowa, which is part of the Great Plains region. The area is characterized by fertile soil, making it ideal for agricultural production. Audubon County is home to a number of small lakes, rivers, and creeks that contribute to its picturesque landscapes.
The climate of Audubon County is classified as humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The region experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, and snowfall is common during the winter months. Summers can bring thunderstorms, particularly in June and July.
Key Facts
- Year Founded: 1851
- County Seat: Audubon
- Population: 6,000 (estimated 2020)
- Population Density: 13.5 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Audubon, Exira, Brayton, Kimballton, and Audubon Township
- Major Highways: U.S. Route 71, Iowa Highway 44
- Adjacent Counties: Shelby County (north), Cass County (east), Guthrie County (south), Montgomery County (west)