National Register of Historic Places listings in Delaware County, Iowa facts for kids

Location of Delaware County in Iowa

Have you ever wondered about the oldest and most special places in your community? In Delaware County, Iowa, there are many historic buildings and sites that are so important, they are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. This special list helps protect places that tell us about the past, like old homes, schools, churches, and even parts of parks.

These places are chosen because they have a unique history, amazing architecture, or are connected to important people or events. Think of it like a Hall of Fame for historic sites! There are 14 places in Delaware County that are currently on this list. Let's explore some of them!

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worth saving. It's managed by the National Park Service in the United States. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized as important to the history of the country, state, or local area. This recognition helps people understand why these places are special and encourages their preservation for future generations.

Exploring Historic Places in Delaware County

Delaware County is home to several fascinating historic sites. Many of these places offer a glimpse into what life was like long ago.

Backbone State Park: Iowa's Oldest State Park

Richmond Springs in Backbone State Park

Backbone State Park is not just a beautiful place to visit; it's also Iowa's very first state park! It was created in 1920 and is known for its rugged limestone bluffs and the Maquoketa River. Several parts of the park are listed on the National Register. These include the main historic district, the cabin and bathing area, the picnicking and camping areas, and even specific spots like Richmond Springs. These areas were developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a group that helped build many parks during the Great Depression. Their work made the park what it is today, with trails, cabins, and picnic spots.

Bay Settlement Church and Monument: A Pioneer Story

Southwest of Delhi, Iowa, you'll find the Bay Settlement Church and Monument. This site tells the story of early settlers in the area. The church itself is a reminder of the strong communities that formed as people moved into Iowa. It shows how important faith and community were to pioneers building new lives.

Coffin's Grove Stagecoach House: A Stop on the Old Trails

The historic Coffin's Grove Stagecoach House

Imagine traveling across Iowa long ago, before cars and highways. People often traveled by stagecoach! The Coffin's Grove Stagecoach House, located west of Manchester, Iowa, was once a vital stop for these travelers. It provided a place for people to rest, eat, and change horses. This house helps us understand the challenges and adventures of travel in the 1800s.

Delaware County Courthouse: A Symbol of Justice

The Delaware County Courthouse in Manchester

In the heart of Manchester, Iowa, stands the impressive Delaware County Courthouse. Built in 1881, this building has been the center of local government and justice for over a century. Its grand architecture reflects the importance of civic life in the county. It's where many important decisions affecting the community have been made over the years.

J.J. Hoag House: A Glimpse into Victorian Life

The J.J. Hoag House in Manchester

The J.J. Hoag House at 120 East Union Street in Manchester is a beautiful example of a Victorian-era home. Built in 1883, it showcases the architectural styles and craftsmanship popular during that time. Looking at this house can make you imagine what daily life was like for families in the late 1800s.

Robert Kirkpatrick Round Barn: A Unique Farm Building

The Robert Kirkpatrick Round Barn

Barns come in all shapes and sizes, but a round barn is quite unique! The Robert Kirkpatrick Round Barn near Coggon, Iowa, is a special example of this type of farm building. Round barns were sometimes built for efficiency, making it easier to feed animals or store hay. This barn stands as a testament to the clever ideas of farmers in the past.

Lincoln Elementary School: A Place of Learning

Lincoln Elementary School in Manchester

Schools are important community landmarks, and Lincoln Elementary School in Manchester is no exception. Built in 1922, this school has educated generations of students. It represents the community's commitment to learning and growth over many decades.

McGee School: A One-Room Schoolhouse Story

The historic McGee School

Before large school buildings, many rural areas had one-room schoolhouses where all ages learned together. The McGee School near Manchester is a wonderful example of such a place. It reminds us of a time when education was delivered in a very different way, with one teacher teaching many grades in a single room.

Old Lenox College: A Legacy of Education

The Main Building of Old Lenox College

In Hopkinton, Iowa, you'll find the historic buildings of Lenox College. This college was founded in 1856 and played a big role in higher education in Iowa for many years. Although it's no longer a college, parts of the campus are now used as the Delaware County, Iowa Historical Museum Complex. This means its legacy of learning continues, now sharing the county's history.

Saints Peter and Paul Church: A Community Landmark

Saints Peter and Paul Church in Petersburg

The Saints Peter and Paul Church in Petersburg is a beautiful and important part of the community's history. Churches often served as central gathering places and symbols of community identity. This church's listing on the National Register highlights its architectural beauty and its role in the lives of local residents.

Why are these places important?

These historic places in Delaware County are more than just old buildings. They are like pieces of a puzzle that help us understand the full story of the county and its people. By preserving them, we keep history alive and ensure that future generations can learn from the past. They remind us of the hard work, dreams, and daily lives of those who came before us.

Images for kids

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  Richmond Springs in Backbone State Park

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  Bay Settlement Church and Monument

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  The historic Coffin's Grove Stagecoach House

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  The Delaware County Courthouse in Manchester

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  The J.J. Hoag House in Manchester

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  The Robert Kirkpatrick Round Barn

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  Lincoln Elementary School in Manchester

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  The historic McGee School

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  The Main Building of Old Lenox College

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  Saints Peter and Paul Church in Petersburg