National Register Listing

Waterloo Ridge Menigheds Kirke og Kirkegard Historic District

a.k.a. Waterloo Ridge Lutheran Church and Cemetery

169 Dorchester Dr., Dorchester, IA
Local significance of the district:
European

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

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.

ethnic heritage european
In the early 1900s, the town of Villisca, Iowa was the site of a gruesome murder that remains unsolved to this day. On June 10, 1912, eight people were bludgeoned to death with an axe in their home. The crime is known as the Villisca Axe Murders and has been the subject of numerous books, films, and TV shows.
Iowa random facts
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.

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.