There are a number of settlements in Iowa, a Midwestern state renowned for its picturesque little towns, rolling landscapes, and rich history, with genuinely unique names.
While some of the names, like What Cheer, don’t seem like town names at all, others, like Jamaica, seem out of place in Iowa!
These 5 towns—Lost Nation, Correctionville, and more—have odd names that make them entertaining trivia, but they’re all also worth seeing for their excellent attractions and small-town charm.
Lost Nation
The origin of the town’s name, Lost Nation, is a mystery; there are a number of hypotheses.
According to one well-known tale, it was the work of a local Native American tribe known as the Boss Nation, which changed its name to Lost Nation after the tribe vanished, to defend its vast hunting grounds (and itself) by deftly concealing in the surrounding cliffs.
Beyond its quirky moniker, the town has a deep history, and the charming Lost Nation Public Library is a great place to start learning about both the area’s past and contemporary affairs.
Gilroy Rustic Park in the town offers beautiful walking paths and picnic spaces, making it the ideal place to spend a day outdoors. The village celebrates with food, music, and enjoyable activities every summer at the Rustic Days Festival.
What Cheer
The name of What Cheer, a community in Keokuk County, frequently causes people to wonder. According to local history, the town’s name was adopted because an early town resident in the 1870s yelled, “What Cheer!” to show excitement for the neighborhood.
What Cheer provides a range of attractions for guests. With thousands of attendees each year, the What Cheer Flea Market is one of the biggest in the state.
All year long, live performances are still held at the 1893 What Cheer Opera House downtown. The village is also near to Lake Keomah State Park, where guests can camp, go fishing, and boat.
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Jamaica
The name of the small town of Jamaica, which is in Guthrie County, has generated a lot of interest.
A well-known legend claims that the town’s first mayor, wearing a blindfold, broke a stalemate over the town’s name by pointing to a map because there is no clear connection to the Caribbean island nation of Jamaica!
Jamaica has a lot to offer tourists despite not being a tropical paradise. Beautiful old buildings, mostly from the late 19th century, may be seen in the town’s historic downtown.
A hidden gem in the area is the neighboring Springbrook State Park, which has hiking trails, camping areas, and areas for swimming and boating.
Gravity
As per a popular belief, Gravity, Iowa, might have derived its “attractive” moniker by serving as the symbolic “center of gravity” for the region because of its economic and social significance.
Although there are now only 150 or so people living in this rural community, downtown Gravity still retains some striking structures, including the post office and a former schoolhouse.
For additional information about the history of the area, see the nearby Taylor County Historical Society Museum in Bedford.
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The neighboring Lake of Three Fires State Park, renowned for its tranquil setting, hiking paths, and top fishing locations, is open to nature lovers.
Elkader
Elkader, in Clayton County, is named after the renowned Algerian warlord Abd El Kader of the 1840s. The leader’s attempts to thwart French colonialism are said to have motivated the early residents, who chose to honor him by naming the town after him.
The town is home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks, such as the stunning example of Italianate architecture that is the Clayton County Courthouse from 1868.
Another center of local culture is the Elkader Public Library, which has historical displays.
In addition to providing kayaking and canoeing options, the gorgeous Turkey River is the site of a regular series of music and entertainment events called the Turkey River Cabin Concerts.
Correctionville
Correctionville’s name suggests correcting an error, and it appears that it is derived from a typical “fix” employed by surveyors. It appears that the town is situated on one of the “correction lines” that surveyors use every six miles to account for the Earth’s curvature.
Housed in a century-old former bank building, the Correctionville Museum features a good collection of historical papers and local items.
Additionally, the village is close to the picturesque Little Sioux River, which is ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
Hiking, fishing, and picnicking are available at the neighboring Silver Sioux Recreation Area for those who like the great outdoors.
Villisca
The Montgomery County town of Villisca is said to have been named after local Native American words that, depending on the source, mean “Place of the Strong River,” “Beautiful Place,” or—less kindly—”Evil Spirit.”
The controversial Villisca Axe Murders of 1912, which are still being debated today, might have contributed to the popularity of the latter meaning of the name. Currently a museum, the Villisca Axe Murder House attracts tourists curious in the town’s spooky past.
Additionally, Villisca’s historic buildings, such the magnificent 1913 Villisca Armory, provide tourists a taste of the city’s past.
The neighboring Loess Hills provide hikers and animal watchers a stunning natural backdrop.
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