Commercial Hotel
a.k.a. Wapello Hotel
227 N. Main St., Wapello, IA Local significance of the building: Commerce
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
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.
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The Amana Colonies, located in east-central Iowa, were founded by a group of German immigrants in the mid-1800s. The Amanas are known for their unique communal way of life and their production of high-quality furniture, textiles, and food products.
About Louisa County
Louisa County Timeline
Louisa County, Iowa, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history spanning over 180 years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sac and Fox tribes, before European settlers arrived. In 1834, the United States government established Louisa County, which was named after Louisa Massey, the daughter of Iowa's first governor.
The first European settlers began arriving in Louisa County around 1835. The county's early economy relied heavily on agriculture, specifically corn and wheat farming. The construction of the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad in the 1850s further stimulated the region's growth, as it provided easier transportation for goods and people. The county's proximity to the Mississippi River also played a significant role in its development, as steamboat traffic increased trade and transportation capabilities.
During the Civil War, Louisa County experienced both economic and social changes. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, sometimes leaving their farms unattended. The war also brought economic opportunities, as the county supplied food and materials to the troops. However, it also faced challenges, such as inflation and shortages. After the war, Louisa County continued to develop its agricultural industry with an emphasis on dairy farming and livestock production.
In the 20th century, Louisa County went through modernization processes. The establishment of electricity and motorized transportation significantly impacted the lives of residents. The Great Depression affected the county, leading to decreased agricultural prices and increased unemployment. However, Louisa County adapted and saw a recovery with the establishment of the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant during World War II, which created job opportunities and stimulated economic growth.
Today, Louisa County is a thriving agricultural community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, services, and tourism. It boasts numerous recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and birdwatching in its scenic natural areas. The county also preserves its history through multiple historical sites and museums to educate visitors about its rich heritage.
The first European settlers began arriving in Louisa County around 1835. The county's early economy relied heavily on agriculture, specifically corn and wheat farming. The construction of the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad in the 1850s further stimulated the region's growth, as it provided easier transportation for goods and people. The county's proximity to the Mississippi River also played a significant role in its development, as steamboat traffic increased trade and transportation capabilities.
During the Civil War, Louisa County experienced both economic and social changes. Many residents enlisted in the Union Army, sometimes leaving their farms unattended. The war also brought economic opportunities, as the county supplied food and materials to the troops. However, it also faced challenges, such as inflation and shortages. After the war, Louisa County continued to develop its agricultural industry with an emphasis on dairy farming and livestock production.
In the 20th century, Louisa County went through modernization processes. The establishment of electricity and motorized transportation significantly impacted the lives of residents. The Great Depression affected the county, leading to decreased agricultural prices and increased unemployment. However, Louisa County adapted and saw a recovery with the establishment of the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant during World War II, which created job opportunities and stimulated economic growth.
Today, Louisa County is a thriving agricultural community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, services, and tourism. It boasts numerous recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and birdwatching in its scenic natural areas. The county also preserves its history through multiple historical sites and museums to educate visitors about its rich heritage.
Louisa County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Louisa County, Iowa.
- 1836 - Louisa County is established by the Iowa Territorial Legislature.
- 1837 - The first permanent settlement is established in the county near the present-day town of Wapello.
- 1840 - The county seat is established in Wapello.
- 1854 - The county population reaches over 7,000, primarily due to the influx of European immigrants.
- 1861-1865 - Many residents of Louisa County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
- 1876 - The railroad reaches Louisa County, facilitating transportation and economic growth.
- 1955 - The construction of the Burlington Floodway System helps to prevent flooding in the county.
- 1969 - The Louisa County Conservation Board is established to protect and manage natural areas.
- 2008 - The town of Columbus Junction is severely affected by flooding from the Iowa and Cedar Rivers.