Iowa County Courthouse (Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Iowa County Courthouse
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | Court Ave. Marengo, Iowa |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1893 |
| Architect | Foster & Liebbe |
| Architectural style | Romanesque Revival |
| MPS | County Courthouses in Iowa TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000247 |
| Added to NRHP | July 2, 1981 |
The Iowa County Courthouse is a historic building in Marengo, Iowa. It was built in 1893. This important building is where county government business happens. It also serves as a court for legal matters.
The courthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. This means it is recognized as a special place in history. It is part of a group of important courthouses in Iowa. This building is the fourth one Iowa County has used for its government and court needs.
Contents
A Look Back: The Courthouse Story
Early Buildings for Iowa County
Iowa County needed a place for its government to work. The very first courthouse was a small, one-room building. It was built way back in 1847. But it wasn't big enough for long.
The county leaders soon decided they needed a better building. So, a second courthouse was finished in 1851. However, even this building became too small within ten years. A third courthouse was then built for about $2,000.
Building the Current Courthouse
The courthouse you see today was built in 1893. It cost about $57,608.16 to construct. This building has a special style called Romanesque Revival. It looks strong and grand, like old Roman buildings.
To pay for the new courthouse, the county found a clever way. They sold some swampland they owned. This land was in Ida and Cherokee counties. They raised $50,000 this way.
Unique Features of the Building
The courthouse is made from a type of stone called Berea Sandstone. It has a tall tower that stands about 137 feet (42 meters) high. The top of the tower is shaped like an octagon. It also has a high, pointed roof.
This special tower design is unique. You won't find it on any other courthouse in Iowa. The Iowa County Courthouse was officially opened on December 20, 1893. It has been serving the county ever since.
