National Register Listing

Marston Water Tower

Iowa State University campus, Ames, IA
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

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.

In the mid-1800s, Iowa was a major hub for the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the North.
Iowa random facts
Story County, Iowa has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1846. It was named after Supreme Court Justice Joseph Story and was initially settled by European pioneers who were attracted to the area for its fertile land. These early settlers faced challenges such as harsh winters and prairie fires, but persevered and built thriving communities.

In the mid-1800s, the construction of the Iowa Central Railroad played a significant role in the county's growth and development. The railroad brought increased trade and commerce, attracting more settlers and establishing towns such as Ames, which eventually became the county seat. Ames was also home to the Iowa State Agricultural College, now known as Iowa State University, which was founded in 1858. The establishment of the college helped shape the educational and cultural landscape of the county.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Story County benefitted from advancements in agriculture and technology. The county became known for its agricultural innovation and progressive farming practices. The introduction of hybrid seed corn, the growth of the livestock industry, and the modernization of farming equipment all contributed to the county's prosperity.

In more recent years, Story County has continued to evolve and thrive. It has become a hub for research and technology, with Iowa State University driving innovation and attracting businesses in fields such as bioscience, engineering, and renewable energy. The county also values its natural resources, with parks and recreational areas providing residents and visitors with outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes.

Overall, Story County's history is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and growth of its communities. From its early settlement to its prominence as a center for education and industry, the county has left a lasting impact on Iowa's history and continues to be a vibrant and thriving area today.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Story County, Iowa.

  • 1846 - Story County is established by the Iowa Legislature.
  • 1851 - The first courthouse is built in Nevada, the county seat.
  • 1853 - The Ames area is platted and settles begin to arrive.
  • 1864 - Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University) is established in Ames.
  • 1870 - Ames is incorporated as a city.
  • 1887 - The first electric streetcar line is established in Ames.
  • 1912 - The "Ames Model Farm" is created to showcase progressive farming practices.
  • 1914 - The first airplane lands in Ames, marking the beginning of aviation in Story County.
  • 1922 - Iowa State Center, a cultural and recreational complex, is established in Ames.
  • 1961 - The Ames Laboratory is established by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission.
  • 1997 - The Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre public garden, opens in Ames.