National Register Listing

Winnebago County Courthouse

J St., Forest City, IA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Iowa.
Iowa is home to the world's largest strawberry, which is located in Strawberry Point. The 15-foot-tall fiberglass strawberry was erected in 1967 and has since become a beloved landmark in the community.
Iowa random facts
Winnebago County is located in northern Iowa and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Winnebago (also known as Ho-Chunk) tribe, who gave the county its name. European settlers began arriving in the 1850s, and the county was officially established in 1857.

The early years of Winnebago County were marked by agricultural development, as settlers cleared the land for farming and established small towns throughout the area. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled growth and economic prosperity, as it provided a means of transportation for goods and people.

During the early 20th century, Winnebago County experienced both triumphs and challenges. The county saw advancements in education, health care, and infrastructure, with the establishment of schools, hospitals, and modern amenities. However, like many rural areas, it also faced the challenges of economic fluctuations and the Great Depression.

In more recent years, Winnebago County has continued to thrive as an agricultural community, with farming being the primary industry. The county has also seen growth in other sectors, such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, Winnebago County is known for its friendly communities, natural beauty, and strong sense of community spirit.

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

  • 1848- Winnebago County is established
  • 1856- First settlers arrive in the county
  • 1860- The county's first post office is established
  • 1861- Winnebago County is officially organized
  • 1862- The county's first courthouse is built
  • 1871- The city of Forest City is founded
  • 1891- The county's first railroad, the Iowa and Dakota Railway, is completed
  • 1900- The population of Winnebago County reaches its peak at over 12,000 residents
  • 1933- The Great Depression hits Winnebago County hard, causing economic decline
  • 1982- Winnebago Industries, a major RV manufacturer, is founded in Forest City
  • 2008- Winnebago County celebrates its 160th anniversary