Lansing Stone School
a.k.a. Stone Building Elementary School
SW corner Center and 5th Sts., Lansing, IAThe stone schoolhouse elementary school is one of the oldest schoolhouses in continuous use in the state of Iowa and the midwest, west of the Mississippi. It was originally constructed for school purposes and has been used for that purpose for over 108 years. In September 1973, it will be abandoned and destroyed unless recognition and help are received to preserve it. Located three blocks from the Mississippi River, it was built at a time when the upper midwest was served by river transportation, and river towns seemed destined for unlimited growth. The fact that growth did not materialize in Lansing reflects its use for such a long period of time.
Because of its location on the Great River Road, near the river in a small town, it is accessible for use by local land and water travelers.
It is in a good state of repair with little need for restoration. It could be used for a historical and natural science museum, the latter we do not have in northeast Iowa, and it would serve public and educational needs.
With our area possessing unusual historic, geological, and environmental assets, and beautiful scenery, a building reflecting these attributes would be a source of local pride and public use.
Attempts to preserve the methods used to quarry and construct such buildings from natural stone, lime, and wood could be illustrated in a diorama, as some aged local citizens still possess that knowledge. There are other examples of this construction method in the waterfront warehouses, original county courthouses, business places, etc., which could augment an architectural tour.
There are still enough antiques available and school records, pictures, desks, etc., that a large portion of the building could contain a significant educational museum.
With Effigy Mounds National Monument to the south and Fish Farm Mounds to the north recording some of the early histories of Indian life in the area, it is desirable that some kind of museum house a record of the pioneer life of the white man in this area. No building or site could be better than the old Stone Schoolhouse.
Local significance of the building:
Because of its location on the Great River Road, near the river in a small town, it is accessible for use by local land and water travelers.
It is in a good state of repair with little need for restoration. It could be used for a historical and natural science museum, the latter we do not have in northeast Iowa, and it would serve public and educational needs.
With our area possessing unusual historic, geological, and environmental assets, and beautiful scenery, a building reflecting these attributes would be a source of local pride and public use.
Attempts to preserve the methods used to quarry and construct such buildings from natural stone, lime, and wood could be illustrated in a diorama, as some aged local citizens still possess that knowledge. There are other examples of this construction method in the waterfront warehouses, original county courthouses, business places, etc., which could augment an architectural tour.
There are still enough antiques available and school records, pictures, desks, etc., that a large portion of the building could contain a significant educational museum.
With Effigy Mounds National Monument to the south and Fish Farm Mounds to the north recording some of the early histories of Indian life in the area, it is desirable that some kind of museum house a record of the pioneer life of the white man in this area. No building or site could be better than the old Stone Schoolhouse.
Education; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
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.
Iowa is home to the world's largest strawberry, which is located in Strawberry Point. The 15-foot-tall fiberglass strawberry was erected in 1967 and has since become a beloved landmark in the community.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.