Charleston, Iowa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charleston, Iowa
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 Charleston, Iowa
Location in Iowa
Charleston, Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Iowa |
| County | Lee |
| Elevation | 699 ft (213 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area code(s) | 319 |
| GNIS feature ID | 455355 |
Charleston is a small, quiet community in Lee County, Iowa, in the southeastern part of the state. It's known as an unincorporated area, which means it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's managed by the county. Charleston is located at 40°35′27″N 91°31′53″W / 40.59083°N 91.53139°W.
Contents
History of Charleston
How Charleston Started
Charleston was officially created on September 23, 1848. A person named George Berry planned out the community for Jacob Hufford. The plans were officially recorded on June 1, 1849.
The original layout of Charleston included 48 small lots and 3 larger ones. It had streets named Hackberry, Main, and Elm, which were crossed by numbered streets running east and west.
Life in Early Charleston
By 1914, Charleston was home to about 65 people. The community had several important places. There were three churches, a public school, and a post office.
People could also send messages using express and telegraph offices. Telephone connections were available, and there was a hotel and a general store. A depot also served the community, likely for trains.
Population Changes Over Time
The number of people living in Charleston changed over the years. By 1925, the population grew to 105 people. However, by 1940, it had decreased to 40 residents.
In 2010, Charleston was home to 32 people. These residents lived in 15 different homes.
Charleston Today
Today, the Lee County Conservation Board manages the town square in Charleston. This area has a shelter and a picnic table, which is a nice spot for people to gather.
A tall water tower, known as Rathbun Regional Water Association water tower #33, is a local landmark. Sadly, a restaurant called the Prairie House, located near the tower, was destroyed by a fire on July 5, 2009. Five different fire departments worked together to try and save the building.
South of the community, you can find the Charleston Cemetery. Another small community in Charleston Township is called New Boston.
