Bradford, Iowa facts for kids

Bradford, Iowa, is a name that refers to two different places in the state of Iowa, USA. It's interesting how places can share the same name! One is a small, unincorporated community in Chickasaw County, and the other is a census-designated place in Franklin County. Let's explore what makes each of these places unique.

Exploring Bradford, Iowa: Two Unique Places

Iowa is a state in the Midwestern United States, known for its rich farmlands and friendly communities. When you hear "Bradford, Iowa," it's important to know which one people are talking about, as they are located in different parts of the state.

Bradford in Chickasaw County

Bradford in Chickasaw County is an example of an unincorporated community. This means it's a small settlement or village that doesn't have its own local government, like a mayor or a city council. Instead, it's governed by the county.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

Imagine a small group of houses and perhaps a few buildings that are not officially a town or city. That's an unincorporated community! They often started as small trading posts or farming centers. Bradford in Chickasaw County was once a more active village. It even had its own post office from 1856 to 1907. This shows it was a recognized settlement for many years. The community was named after Bradford, Vermont, connecting it to places further east in the United States. Today, it's a quiet area, mostly made up of scattered homes and farms.

Bradford in Franklin County

The other Bradford in Iowa is located in Franklin County. This Bradford is classified as a census-designated place, often shortened to CDP. A CDP is a special area identified by the United States Census Bureau. It's used for gathering statistics, like population numbers, but it's not a legally incorporated town or city.

What is a Census-Designated Place?

A census-designated place, or CDP, is like a neighborhood or a small community that the Census Bureau gives a name to for counting people. It helps them collect accurate data about where people live, even if those areas don't have their own city government. Bradford in Franklin County had a population of 76 people according to the 2020 Census. This makes it a very small community, but it's still an important part of Franklin County's landscape.

A Look at Franklin County

Franklin County, where this Bradford is located, is in the north-central part of Iowa. The county seat, which is the main administrative town, is Hampton. Franklin County is primarily an agricultural area, meaning farming is a very important part of its economy and way of life. Small communities like Bradford play a role in the larger county, often serving as quiet residential areas for people who work in farming or nearby towns.