National Register of Historic Places listings in Harrison County, Iowa facts for kids
Welcome to Harrison County, Iowa! This area in the United States is home to many special places that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. Think of this register as a list of important buildings, sites, and objects that are worth protecting because they tell us a lot about history. There are 13 such places in Harrison County, and one of them is even a National Historic Landmark, which means it's super important to the whole country!
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Exploring Harrison County's Historic Treasures
These historic places help us understand what life was like long ago in Harrison County. They include old courthouses, unique barns, and even former stores and banks. Each one has a story to tell about the people and events that shaped this part of Iowa.
Buildings with a Story
Many of the places on the list are buildings that played a big role in their communities.
- The Harrison County Courthouse in Logan is a grand building that has been important for local government since 1981. It's where many decisions affecting the county have been made.
- The Old Harrison County Courthouse in Magnolia is another historic government building. It served the county before the current one was built.
- In Dunlap, you can find the I.O.O.F. Hall. This building was once a meeting place for a group called the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which was a friendly society that helped people in the community.
- The Modale School and Masonic Hall in Modale is interesting because it was both a school and a meeting hall for the Masons, another community group. Imagine going to school in a building that also hosted important local meetings!
- The John R. Wheeler Jr. House in Dunlap is a historic home. It gives us a peek into how people lived in the past.
Historic Stores and Banks
Some of the listed places were once busy centers of commerce, where people bought goods and handled their money.
- The Murray General Merchandise Store in Little Sioux was a place where people could buy almost anything they needed, from food to tools. It was a vital part of daily life for the community.
- In Woodbine, the Siebels' Department Store-Boyer Valley Bank building served two important purposes. It was a department store where people shopped, and also a bank where they kept their savings.
- The State Savings Bank in Logan is another historic bank building. Banks like this were crucial for the growth and development of towns.
- Also in Woodbine, the Woodbine Savings Bank is another example of a building that played a key role in the town's economy.
Educational and Community Hubs
These places show how important education and community gathering spots were.
- The Woodbine Normal and Grade School in Woodbine was a place where many generations of students learned. "Normal schools" were special places that trained teachers.
- The Woodbine Public Library in Woodbine has been a center for learning and reading for many years. Libraries are important places where everyone can access books and information.
Unique Structures and Districts
Not all historic places are single buildings; some are unique structures or even whole areas!
- The William Haner Polygonal Barn near Pisgah is a very special type of barn. Instead of being rectangular, it has many sides, making it a unique sight. It was listed in 1986.
- The Woodbine Lincoln Highway and Brick Street Historic District in Woodbine is a whole area that is considered historic. It includes parts of the famous Lincoln Highway, one of America's first transcontinental roads, and streets paved with old bricks. This district shows how towns developed around important travel routes.
Former Listings
Sometimes, a historic place might be removed from the National Register. This can happen if the building is changed too much or is no longer standing.
- The Harrison County Jail in Logan was once on the list, added in 1983. However, it was removed in 2006.