National Register Listing

Bethany Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church

1.5 mi. N of IA 44, 1 mi. E of Hwy. 68, Kimballton, IA
Local significance of the building:
Art; European; Architecture; Religion

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1991.

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.

art ethnic heritage european architecture religion Lutheran denomination churches
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
Audubon County, Iowa is located in the southwestern part of the state and has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The county was officially established on January 15, 1851, and was named after famed ornithologist and artist John James Audubon.

The first European settlers arrived in Audubon County in the late 1840s, primarily from various parts of Europe, including Germany, Ireland, and Sweden. They were attracted by the fertile soil and the potential for establishing prosperous farms. The early years were marked by the construction of small towns and the development of an agricultural economy.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Audubon County experienced significant growth and progress. Railroads were built, connecting the county to larger markets and expanding trade opportunities. The population increased as more settlers were drawn to the area, contributing to the establishment of schools, churches, and other community institutions.

In the mid-20th century, like many rural areas, Audubon County faced challenges due to the decline of family farms and changing economic landscapes. However, the county adapted to these changes, diversifying its economy and embracing new industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, Audubon County is known for its thriving agriculture, which includes corn, soybeans, and livestock production, as well as its commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation. The John James Audubon Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to preserving Audubon's artwork and legacy, serves as a cultural highlight of the county.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Audubon County, Iowa.

  • 1848 - Audubon County is established as a county in Iowa.
  • 1857 - The first land purchase is made in the area by a settler named John James Audubon.
  • 1870 - The first official courthouse in Audubon County is constructed in the town of Audubon.
  • 1913 - The Audubon State Savings Bank is founded.
  • 1926 - The current Audubon County courthouse is built.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression takes a toll on the county's economy, leading to a decline in population.
  • 1956 - The Audubon County Memorial Hospital is established.
  • 1981 - The Audubon County Conservation Board is created to manage the county's natural resources.
  • 1999 - The town of Exira celebrates its 125th anniversary.
  • 2015 - Audubon County celebrates its 167th anniversary.