Iron Post
N end of Main St., New Albin, IAThe Iron Post was important to the early settlement of the territories of Iowa and Minnesota. It was the reference point for the running and marking of the northern border of the State of Iowa ordered through an act of Congress on March 3, 1849, to help solve boundary problems between Iowa and Minnesota.
In 1849 Captain Thomas Lee place the post at New Albin, Iowa, which was the site of his determination of North latitude 43 degrees 30 minutes by astronomical observation. 43 degrees 30 minutes had been designated the northern border of Iowa by Congress on August 4, 1846.
This survey line was a correction line for townships previously established from below in order to avoid double corners on the state line. It served in addition as a practical surveying base for the vast public domain north of it and far to the west of its terminus at the Big Sioux River.
Local significance of the object:
In 1849 Captain Thomas Lee place the post at New Albin, Iowa, which was the site of his determination of North latitude 43 degrees 30 minutes by astronomical observation. 43 degrees 30 minutes had been designated the northern border of Iowa by Congress on August 4, 1846.
This survey line was a correction line for townships previously established from below in order to avoid double corners on the state line. It served in addition as a practical surveying base for the vast public domain north of it and far to the west of its terminus at the Big Sioux River.
Exploration/settlement; Politics/government
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In 1917, a German submarine sank the SS Housatonic, a U.S. freighter carrying food and supplies to Europe during World War I, off the coast of South Carolina. Among the crew members who went down with the ship was an Iowa native named Herbert C. Jones, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the sinking.
About Allamakee County
Allamakee County Timeline
Allamakee County, located in northeastern Iowa, has a rich and diverse history that spans back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota, Ho-Chunk, and Iowa. These tribes relied on the natural resources of the region such as the Mississippi River for trade and sustenance.
European settlers first arrived in the area in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and abundant wildlife. The county was officially established in 1847 and was named after the Native American chief Allamakee, who was known for his friendly relations with the early settlers. Throughout the 19th century, Allamakee County experienced rapid growth and development as more pioneers moved in and established farms and towns.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further prosperity to the county, enabling the transportation of goods and allowing for greater economic opportunities. The towns of Waukon, Lansing, and Harpers Ferry became important trading centers in the region. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, became one of the primary industries in Allamakee County.
In the 20th century, Allamakee County saw some challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the agricultural industry. However, the county managed to adapt and diversify its economy, with an increased focus on tourism and outdoor recreation due to its scenic natural beauty. Today, Allamakee County attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities that celebrate the region's rich history and culture.
European settlers first arrived in the area in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and abundant wildlife. The county was officially established in 1847 and was named after the Native American chief Allamakee, who was known for his friendly relations with the early settlers. Throughout the 19th century, Allamakee County experienced rapid growth and development as more pioneers moved in and established farms and towns.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought further prosperity to the county, enabling the transportation of goods and allowing for greater economic opportunities. The towns of Waukon, Lansing, and Harpers Ferry became important trading centers in the region. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, became one of the primary industries in Allamakee County.
In the 20th century, Allamakee County saw some challenges, including the Great Depression and the decline of the agricultural industry. However, the county managed to adapt and diversify its economy, with an increased focus on tourism and outdoor recreation due to its scenic natural beauty. Today, Allamakee County attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities that celebrate the region's rich history and culture.
Allamakee County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Allamakee County, Iowa.
- 1837 - Allamakee County is established.
- 1851 - The county seat is officially established in Salem.
- 1855 - Waukon becomes the new county seat after a heated election.
- 1857 - Allamakee County experiences a population boom due to the newly constructed railroad.
- 1878 - The Upper Mississippi River Fish and Wildlife Refuge is established along the county's eastern border.
- 1935 - The Great Depression hits Allamakee County hard, leading to economic struggle for many residents.
- 1980s - Tourism becomes an important industry in the county, with visitors attracted to its scenic beauty.
- 2010 - Allamakee County celebrates its 175th anniversary.