Dunbar, Iowa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dunbar, Iowa
|
|
|---|---|
 Dunbar, Iowa
Location in Iowa
Dunbar, Iowa
Location in the United States
|
|
| Country |  United States |
| State |  Iowa |
| County | Marshall |
| Elevation | 932 ft (284 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| ZIP code |
50158
|
| Area code(s) | 641 |
Dunbar is a small, quiet place in Marshall County, Iowa, United States. 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 part of the larger county. Dunbar was once a busy village with a train station.
History
How Dunbar Started
Dunbar was officially planned and mapped out in 1882. This process is called "platting." It means someone drew up the plans for streets, lots, and public areas. The village was set up in Green Castle Township. It was placed right in the middle of two other towns, LeGrand and Gilman.
Many of the first people to settle in Dunbar came from Norway. They brought their traditions with them. A church was built there that was connected to the United Norwegian Lutheran Church.
Growing as a Community
As Dunbar grew, people started new businesses. In 1901, the Dunbar Creamery Company was formed. This was a "co-op," meaning it was owned and run by its members, often farmers. They worked together to make butter and other dairy products.
After the creamery, a company that dealt with grain opened. There was also a lumber business, which sold wood for building. In 1909, the Dunbar Savings Bank was created. During this time, Dunbar also had a post office and a general store. The general store sold all sorts of everyday items.
The Railroad and Population
The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad was very important to Dunbar. Trains served the village from 1881 until 1980. The railroad helped bring goods in and out of Dunbar. It also connected the community to other places.
Over the years, Dunbar's population changed. In 1902, about 44 people lived there. By 1925, the population had grown slightly to 55 people. In 1940, the number of residents was 50.
