Crawford County Courthouse
Broadway between Ave. B and Ave. C, Denison, IA Local significance of the building: Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
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.
In 1917, a German submarine sank the SS Housatonic, a U.S. freighter carrying food and supplies to Europe during World War I, off the coast of South Carolina. Among the crew members who went down with the ship was an Iowa native named Herbert C. Jones, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the sinking.
About Crawford County
Crawford County Timeline
Crawford County, Iowa, located in the western part of the state, has a rich history stretching back to its earliest days of settlement. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, primarily the Iowa, Sauk, and Dakota Sioux. In the early 1800s, however, European settlers began to arrive in search of new opportunities.
The county was officially established on January 13, 1851, with Denison as its county seat. The town was named after George Denison, a soldier who fought in the Black Hawk War. The early settlers faced many challenges, from harsh winters to prairie fires, but they persevered and built thriving communities.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Crawford County experienced significant growth, driven by agriculture and the railroad. The fertile soil attracted farmers who cultivated vast fields, leading to the development of prosperous farming communities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled economic growth, as it provided transportation for goods and people and opened up markets for local products.
In the mid-20th century, Crawford County faced challenges as changes in agriculture and industry affected the local economy. The decline of the railroad and the rise of mechanization in farming led to a shift in the county's economy. However, Crawford County adapted and diversified, with new industries and businesses emerging to support the community.
Today, Crawford County continues to thrive as a vibrant agricultural and manufacturing community. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and sites that tell the story of its past. The county's residents take pride in their history, working together to preserve and celebrate their shared heritage.
The county was officially established on January 13, 1851, with Denison as its county seat. The town was named after George Denison, a soldier who fought in the Black Hawk War. The early settlers faced many challenges, from harsh winters to prairie fires, but they persevered and built thriving communities.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Crawford County experienced significant growth, driven by agriculture and the railroad. The fertile soil attracted farmers who cultivated vast fields, leading to the development of prosperous farming communities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled economic growth, as it provided transportation for goods and people and opened up markets for local products.
In the mid-20th century, Crawford County faced challenges as changes in agriculture and industry affected the local economy. The decline of the railroad and the rise of mechanization in farming led to a shift in the county's economy. However, Crawford County adapted and diversified, with new industries and businesses emerging to support the community.
Today, Crawford County continues to thrive as a vibrant agricultural and manufacturing community. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and sites that tell the story of its past. The county's residents take pride in their history, working together to preserve and celebrate their shared heritage.
Crawford County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Crawford County, Iowa.
- 1851: Crawford County is established by the state legislature as part of Iowa's ongoing county creation.
- 1855: The first permanent settlement, Denison, is established by settlers from Ohio.
- 1857: The county seat is transferred from the town of Milford to Denison due to its rapid growth.
- 1861-1865: Many men from Crawford County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
- 1877: The Chicago and Northwestern Railroad arrives in Denison, boosting economic growth in the area.
- 1880s: Immigration from Germany and Scandinavia greatly influences the county's population and culture.
- 1893: The Agricultural and Mechanical Association, later known as the Crawford County Fair, is organized.
- 1914-1918: Crawford County contributes to the war effort during World War I.
- 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardships to Crawford County, like the rest of the country.
- 1941-1945: Many residents of Crawford County serve in the armed forces during World War II.
- 1950s-1960s: Educational institutions and infrastructure continue to develop in the county.
- 1970s: The county experiences growth in agribusiness and manufacturing sectors.
- 1990s: Introduction of internet and technological advancements impact Crawford County.
- 2000s: Efforts are made to promote economic development and tourism in the county.