Historical Markers in
Pottawattamie County, Iowa

Abraham Lincoln's 1859 Visit Anticipating An Indian Council Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Depot Civil War Memorial Colonel William H. Kinsman Council Bluffs Free Public Library Council Bluffs Veterans Plaza Golden Spike Monument Grenville M. Dodge Grenville M. Dodge Historic Council Bluffs / Noted Council Bluffs Residents Historic Council Bluffs / Noted Council Bluffs Residents Hyde Park Kanesville Crossing: A Rush For Gold Kanesville Mormon Cemetery Like a Bald Man’s Head Mormon Battalion Mustering Grounds Mormon Trail Seeking Buyers and Sellers Spanish War Veterans Squirrel Cage Jail The Historic General Dodge House The Lewis and Clark Expedition The National Humane Alliance Fountain We Were All Busily Engaged Western Historic Trails Center; Starting the Journey "Branches Of Honor" "Freedom With Honor"
During World War II, Iowa was home to several prisoner of war camps, where German soldiers were held captive. The largest of these camps was located in Algona, Iowa, and housed more than 10,000 prisoners at its peak.
Iowa random facts
Pottawattamie County, located in western Iowa, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi, Sauk, and Fox tribes. These indigenous peoples relied on the land for hunting, fishing, and agriculture, establishing a deep connection with the natural resources in the region. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, leading to significant changes in the area.

In the 1830s, the federal government implemented the Indian Removal Act, which resulted in the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands. This had a major impact on Pottawattamie County, as the Potawatomi tribe was one of the many tribes displaced during this time. After their removal, European settlers began moving into the area, establishing towns and farms.

Pottawattamie County experienced rapid growth during the mid-19th century, thanks to its strategic location along the Missouri River and the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. These transportation routes played a crucial role in the county's economic development, attracting businesses, industries, and immigrants looking for opportunities. The county became an important hub for trade and agriculture.

Over the years, Pottawattamie County has faced various challenges and undergone significant changes. The county played a role in the Civil War, with many residents serving in the Union Army. It also weathered economic downturns, including the Great Depression, but managed to rebound and diversify its economy. Today, Pottawattamie County is a thriving area with a mixture of urban and rural landscapes, known for its agricultural heritage, educational institutions, and vibrant communities.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Pottawattamie County, Iowa.

  • 1836 - Pottawattamie County was established by an act of the Iowa Territorial Legislature.
  • 1837 - The county seat was selected and named as Council Bluffs.
  • 1838 - The first post office was established in Council Bluffs.
  • 1846 - The Mormons arrived in Pottawattamie County on their way to establish Winter Quarters.
  • 1851 - Council Bluffs became an important supply point during the California Gold Rush.
  • 1867 - The Union Pacific Railroad reached Council Bluffs, connecting it to the Transcontinental Railroad.
  • 1872 - Pottawattamie County's first courthouse was constructed.
  • 1887 - The city of Avoca was incorporated.
  • 1891 - The Pottawattamie County Courthouse in Council Bluffs was destroyed by a fire.
  • 1900 - The Carnegie Library in Council Bluffs was built.
  • 1918 - Lake Manawa State Park was established.
  • 1944 - The Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs was closed.
  • 1986 - Construction of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge was completed, connecting Council Bluffs with Omaha, Nebraska.