Mahaska County, Iowa
Alsop, Carroll, House
Bellefountain Bridge
Berry, Dr. William E. and Ethel Rosenberger, House
Conover, Thomas J., House
Edmundson Park Historic District
Eveland Bridge
Forest Cemetery Entrance
Gibbs, E. H., House
Hoffman, Phil, House
Iowa Yearly Meeting House-College Avenue Friends Church
Johnson, William A. and Ida C., House
Klose, Dr. William H. and Mae R., House
Lake Keomah State Park, Bathhouse-Lodge Area (Area A)
Lake Keomah State Park, Erosion Control Area (Area B)
Lamberson, Jack, House
Lincoln School
Mahaska County Courthouse
McMullin, Maj. James W., House
McNeill, W.A., House
Nelson, Daniel, House and Barn
North Skunk River Bridge
Oskaloosa City Hall
Oskaloosa City Park and Band Stand
Oskaloosa City Square Commercial Historic District
Oskaloosa Fire Station
Oskaloosa Monthly Meeting of Friends Parsonage
Oskaloosa Post Office
Oskaloosa Public Library
Paradise Block Historic District
Penn College Historic District
Pierson-Betts House
President's Cottage
Rock Island Passenger Depot
Rose Hill Methodist Episcopal Church
Seeberger-Loring-Kilburn House
Shoemake, John H., House
Smith-Johnson House
Spring Creek Friends Cemetery
Spring Creek Meeting House-H Street Mission
Spurgin Residence
St. James Episcopal Church
Stock Judging Pavilion
Stokes, Dr. Ella, House
Stranahan, Prof. Edgar H. and Irene D., House
Ulysses Simpson Grant Elementary School
Vander Wilt Farmstead Historic District
Vermeer, Gary J. and Matilda, Farmstead
Voorhees, John K., House
During the mid-19th century, Mahaska County experienced rapid growth and development. The county's economy thrived with agriculture as the primary industry. Farmers cultivated crops such as corn, wheat, and oats, while livestock farming, especially cattle and hogs, also played a significant role. In 1853, the first railroad line was established, connecting Mahaska County to larger markets and facilitating the transportation of goods.
The county saw significant advancements and improvements in its infrastructure over the years. Bridges were constructed, enabling better connectivity between towns and facilitating trade. The development of roads and highways further improved transportation in Mahaska County. In 1868, the city of Oskaloosa, the county seat, was incorporated and became a center for commerce and government.
In the early 20th century, Mahaska County continued to thrive economically. The discovery of oil in 1914 stimulated growth in the area, attracting oil companies and generating employment opportunities. Throughout the century, the county witnessed advancements in education and healthcare, with the establishment of schools, libraries, and hospitals. The county also saw various cultural and recreational developments, with parks, museums, and community events contributing to the quality of life for its residents. Today, Mahaska County remains a vibrant community with a rich history, a strong agricultural heritage, and a diverse array of industries.
Brief timeline of the history of Mahaska County, Iowa:
- 1843: Mahaska County is established as a county in Iowa Territory.
- 1844: The first permanent settlements are established in Mahaska County.
- 1850: The town of Oskaloosa is surveyed and becomes the county seat.
- 1861-1865: Mahaska County residents serve in the American Civil War.
- 1875: Oskaloosa College is founded.
- 1894: The Oskaloosa City Hall and Opera House is built.
- 1914-1918: Mahaska County residents serve in World War I.
- 1930s: The Great Depression affects Mahaska County, leading to economic hardships.
- 1941-1945: Mahaska County residents serve in World War II.
- 1963: William Penn University is established in Oskaloosa.
- 1984: The Nelson Pioneer Farm and Museum is established.
- 2008: Mahaska County celebrates its 165th anniversary.
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Mahaska County, Iowa.