National Register Listing

Lyon County Courthouse

3rd and Story Sts., Rock Rapids, IA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

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.

law courthouses buildings
Iowa was part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, but it wasn't until 1833 that the first permanent settlement was established in what is now the city of Burlington.
Iowa random facts
Lyon County, Iowa is located in the northwest corner of the state and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Otoe, Sioux, and Fox, who relied on the fertile land for hunting and gathering. European settlement began in the 1850s when pioneers sought to establish farms and trading posts along the Little Rock River.

In 1859, the town of Rock Rapids was founded and became the county seat of Lyon County. The town grew quickly due to its strategic location along the Rock Island Railroad, which brought increased commerce and development to the area. Agriculture played a vital role in Lyon County's history, with farmers primarily cultivating corn, grains, and livestock. The county's rich soil and abundant water supply made it an ideal location for agricultural practices.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lyon County experienced significant growth and prosperity. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s further fueled economic development in the region. The establishment of several oil fields brought in a wave of workers and bolstered the local economy. However, the oil boom eventually declined, and agriculture once again became the predominant industry in Lyon County.

Today, Lyon County is a thriving community known for its strong agricultural sector and vibrant small towns. The county offers a range of recreational opportunities, including beautiful parks, trails, and lakes for outdoor enthusiasts. Lyon County also celebrates its history through various events and festivals, preserving the rich heritage of the area for future generations to appreciate.

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

  • 1851 - Lyon County is established by the Iowa General Assembly.
  • 1867 - The first railroad, the Sioux City and St. Paul, is completed, connecting Lyon County to larger markets.
  • 1871 - The county seat of Rock Rapids is officially established.
  • 1873 - The first newspaper, the Lyon County Reporter, is published in Rock Rapids.
  • 1889 - The first high school, Central Lyon School, is established in Rock Rapids.
  • 1892 - The Lyon County Courthouse is built in Rock Rapids.
  • 1913 - The Iowa State Bank is founded, becoming the oldest bank still operating in Lyon County today.
  • 1936 - The Little Rock Dam is completed, providing irrigation and flood control for the area.
  • 1965 - The Rock Rapids Municipal Hospital opens, providing comprehensive healthcare services for Lyon County residents.
  • 1988 - The Lyon County Historical Society is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1993 - The Lyon County Fairgrounds are revamped, becoming a popular venue for community events and the annual county fair.