7 Bizarrely Named Towns In Iowa
Iowa, a Midwestern state known for its rolling landscapes, quaint small towns, and rich history, is home to several communities with truly unusual names. Some of the names, like Jamaica, seem out of place in Iowa, while others, like What Cheer, do not sound like town names at all! From Lost Nation to Correctionville and more, these seven towns are fun bits of trivia due to their bizarre names, but all of them are also worth visiting for their top-notch attractions and small-town charm.
What Cheer
The town of What Cheer, located in Keokuk County, has a name that often raises questions. According to local history, an early townsperson in the 1870s exclaimed, “What Cheer!” to express enthusiasm for the community, and it stuck as the town’s name. For visitors, What Cheer offers a variety of attractions. The annual What Cheer Flea Market is one of the largest in the state, attracting thousands of people each year. Downtown, the 1893 What Cheer Opera House still presents live performances throughout the year. Additionally, the town is close to Lake Keomah State Park, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and camping.
Lost Nation
Lost Nation’s name has a mysterious origin, with several theories circulating about how the town received it. One popular story attributes it to a local Native American tribe that protected its abundant hunting lands (and itself) by skillfully hiding in the nearby cliffs, called the Boss Nation (which later turned to Lost Nation when the tribe disappeared).
The town is rich in history beyond its odd name, and the quaint Lost Nation Public Library is a good starting point for learning about the town’s past as well as its current community events. The town’s Gilroy Rustic Park features lovely walking trails and picnic areas, perfect for a day in nature. Each summer, the town hosts the annual Rustic Days Festival, a community celebration with food, music, and fun activities.
Jamaica
Jamaica, located in Guthrie County, is a small town with a name that has led to much curiosity. Since there is no obvious connection to the Caribbean island nation of Jamaica, a popular legend states that the town's first mayor broke an impasse on naming the town by pointing to a map while blindfolded!
Although it may not be a tropical paradise, Jamaica has plenty to offer visitors. The town features a historic downtown area with beautiful old buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th century. The nearby Springbrook State Park is a local gem, offering boating and swimming, hiking trails, and camping spots. Additionally, for a great photo op, the 1881 Octagon Barn, located just outside of town, is the oldest-known octagonal barn remaining in the state.
Gravity
According to one circulating legend, Gravity, Iowa, may have earned its "attractive" name by being the figurative "center of gravity" for the surrounding area due to its economic and social importance. The population of this farming community has dwindled to only about 150, but downtown Gravity is still home to some impressive buildings, such as the post office and former schoolhouse.
Close by, the Taylor County Historical Society Museum in Bedford provides more insight into the history of the region. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Lake of Three Fires State Park, known for its serene atmosphere, hiking trails, and excellent fishing spots.
Elkader
The name of Elkader, located in Clayton County, is derived from the famed 1840s Algerian leader, Abd El Kader. Early settlers were reportedly inspired by the leader’s efforts to resist French colonization and decided to name the town after him in a show of admiration.
The town has several historic and cultural attractions, including the 1868 Clayton County Courthouse, a beautiful example of Italianate architecture. The Elkader Public Library is another hub of local culture, featuring exhibits on the town’s history. The picturesque Turkey River offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, and also hosts the Turkey River Cabin Concerts, an ongoing series of music and entertainment events.
Correctionville
The name of this town conjures up the idea of fixing a mistake, and Correctionville apparently does come from a common "fix" used by surveyors. The town, it seems, sits on one of the "correction lines" used by surveyors every six miles to adjust for the curvature of the Earth.
The Correctionville Museum, located in a century-old former bank building, displays a nice collection of local artifacts and historical documents. The town is also near the scenic Little Sioux River, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Silver Sioux Recreation Area offers hiking, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
Villisca
Villisca, a town in Montgomery County, is reputed to be derived from local Native American terms that mean, depending on the source, “Place of the Strong River,” “Beautiful Place,” or—less charitably—“Evil Spirit.” The latter interpretation of the name may have gained traction because of the infamous 1912 Villisca Axe Murders, which are still discussed today. The Villisca Axe Murder House, now a museum, draws visitors interested in the eerie history of the town.
Villisca also offers visitors a glimpse of its past through its historic buildings, such as the Villisca Armory, an imposing structure that dates back to 1913. For nature lovers, the nearby Loess Hills provides a beautiful natural setting for hiking and wildlife watching.
Iowa’s bizarrely named towns are more than just curiosities; they each have rich histories and unique attractions that are worth exploring. From the murder mystery attached to Villisca to the charming cultural festivals of Elkader,these towns reflect Iowa’s deep-rooted traditions and distinctive past. Whether you are looking to explore history, nature, or architecture, these towns offer plenty of opportunities to discover something new and intriguing. Visiting these towns will make any trip to Iowa an unforgettable adventure.
