Wright County Courthouse
Central Ave., Clarion, 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.
Iowa was one of the first states to grant women the right to vote. In 1869, the Iowa state legislature passed a law allowing women to vote in school board elections. This was more than 50 years before the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted women the right to vote nationwide.
About Wright County
Wright County Timeline
Wright County, Iowa, situated in the north-central part of the state, has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Sac and Fox nations, who used the land for hunting and fishing. In the early 1850s, European settlers began moving into the region, attracted by the fertile soil and abundance of water sources.
The county itself was established in 1851, named after Silas Wright, a prominent New York politician. As more settlers arrived, towns and communities began to develop, including the county seat of Clarion, which was founded in 1853. Agriculture quickly became the primary industry in Wright County, with crops like corn, wheat, and oats being grown, and livestock farming becoming prevalent.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wright County experienced significant growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger cities and facilitating the transportation of goods and people. The population steadily increased, and new industries, such as creameries, lumber mills, and brick factories, emerged. As the county expanded, educational institutions, churches, and other community organizations were established to support the growing population.
In the mid-20th century, like many rural areas in the United States, Wright County faced challenges due to technological advancements in agriculture and the decline of small family farms. However, the community adapted, diversifying its economy by attracting businesses in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Today, Wright County remains an agricultural hub while also embracing modern industries and maintaining its rural charm. The county continues to be an important part of Iowa's history and economy, with its residents proud of their heritage and working towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
The county itself was established in 1851, named after Silas Wright, a prominent New York politician. As more settlers arrived, towns and communities began to develop, including the county seat of Clarion, which was founded in 1853. Agriculture quickly became the primary industry in Wright County, with crops like corn, wheat, and oats being grown, and livestock farming becoming prevalent.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wright County experienced significant growth and development. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to larger cities and facilitating the transportation of goods and people. The population steadily increased, and new industries, such as creameries, lumber mills, and brick factories, emerged. As the county expanded, educational institutions, churches, and other community organizations were established to support the growing population.
In the mid-20th century, like many rural areas in the United States, Wright County faced challenges due to technological advancements in agriculture and the decline of small family farms. However, the community adapted, diversifying its economy by attracting businesses in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Today, Wright County remains an agricultural hub while also embracing modern industries and maintaining its rural charm. The county continues to be an important part of Iowa's history and economy, with its residents proud of their heritage and working towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
Wright County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wright County, Iowa.
- 1851: Wright County is established as a county in the state of Iowa.
- 1852: The first settlers arrive in Wright County.
- 1855: The county seat of Wright County is established in the town of Belmond.
- 1856: The first post office is established in Wright County.
- 1861: The Civil War begins, and many men from Wright County enlist in the Union Army.
- 1867: The town of Eagle Grove is platted and becomes a major center of commerce in Wright County.
- 1870: The Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railway is completed through Wright County, boosting economic development.
- 1895: The Wright County Courthouse, located in Belmond, is built.
- 1901: The Wright County Agricultural Society is founded to promote agriculture in the area.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits Wright County, causing economic hardship for many residents.
- 1942: The Belmond Drive-In Theatre opens, becoming a popular entertainment spot for residents.
- 1964: The Cornbelt Power Cooperative is established, providing affordable electrical service to Wright County.
- 1974: The town of Clarion hosts its first annual "Pioneer Days" celebration, honoring the county's early settlers.
- 2003: The Wright County Historical Society is founded, dedicated to preserving and promoting the county's history.