Remsen, Iowa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Remsen, Iowa
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Location in Iowa
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  Iowa |
| County | Plymouth |
| Incorporated | 1889 |
| Government | |
| • Type | Mayor-council |
| Area | |
| • Total | 1.46 sq mi (3.79 km2) |
| • Land | 1.46 sq mi (3.79 km2) |
| • Water | 0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2) |
| Elevation | 1,329 ft (405 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 1,678 |
| • Density | 1,146.17/sq mi (442.53/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (CST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| ZIP code |
51050
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| Area code(s) | 712 |
| FIPS code | 19-66405 |
| GNIS feature ID | 0460584 |
Remsen is a small city located in Plymouth County, Iowa, in the United States. In 2020, about 1,678 people lived there. It's a friendly place with a rich history.
Contents
History of Remsen
How Remsen Got Its Name
Remsen was named after a doctor called William Remsen Smith. She had a good friend who thought the town should be called Smithville. But Dr. Smith felt there were already too many places named Smithville. So, she decided to use her middle name, Remsen, for the new town.
Founding and Early Days
The town of Remsen was officially planned on August 28, 1876. This was done by a railroad company that owned land in the area. Remsen became an official city in the spring of 1889. By 1885, about 650 people lived there.
Immigrants and Traditions
Many of the first people to settle in Remsen came from Germany and Luxembourg. They left their home countries to find a new and better life in America. They wanted more freedom and opportunities. These early settlers brought their strong religious faith and hardworking spirit with them. They were also known for being fun-loving. They helped build Remsen and were always ready to help their new country when needed.
Remsen During Prohibition
During a time in American history called Prohibition, it was against the law to make or sell alcohol. Remsen became a place where some people secretly made and sold illegal alcohol. Because it was located near bigger cities and had lots of farmland, it was a good spot for this activity. Much of the illegal alcohol made here was sent to other Iowa cities like Sioux City or Pocahontas.
The Great Fire of 1936
On July 4, 1936, a huge fire broke out in Remsen. It destroyed 15 homes and 18 buildings that held 38 businesses. The fire started when some young kids were playing with fireworks, and a nearby tent caught fire. Strong winds and extreme heat made the fire spread very quickly. Fire departments from nearby towns fought the fire all night long. This big fire led to a ban on fireworks in Iowa for 84 years.
Geography of Remsen
Remsen is located at coordinates 42 degrees, 48 minutes, 47 seconds North and 95 degrees, 58 minutes, 18 seconds West. The city covers a total area of about 1.27 square miles (3.29 square kilometers). All of this area is land, meaning there are no large lakes or rivers within the city limits.
Population Information
| Historical populations | ||
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| Year | Pop. | ±% |
| 1890 | 580 | — |
| 1900 | 835 | +44.0% |
| 1910 | 1,076 | +28.9% |
| 1920 | 1,144 | +6.3% |
| 1930 | 1,181 | +3.2% |
| 1940 | 1,196 | +1.3% |
| 1950 | 1,280 | +7.0% |
| 1960 | 1,338 | +4.5% |
| 1970 | 1,367 | +2.2% |
| 1980 | 1,592 | +16.5% |
| 1990 | 1,513 | −5.0% |
| 2000 | 1,762 | +16.5% |
| 2010 | 1,663 | −5.6% |
| 2020 | 1,678 | +0.9% |
| Source: and Iowa Data Center Source: |
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Population in 2020
In 2020, Remsen had a population of 1,678 people. There were 666 households in the city. The population density was about 1,146 people per square mile. Most of the people living in Remsen (about 94.2%) were White.
About 26.1% of the people were under 20 years old. About 24.9% were 65 years old or older. The average age in Remsen was 41.5 years. Slightly more than half of the residents (53.2%) were female, and 46.8% were male.
Population in 2010
In 2010, Remsen had 1,663 people living there. There were 645 households. The population density was about 1,309 people per square mile. Most residents (98.2%) were White.
About 27.8% of the people were under 18 years old. About 20.4% were 65 years old or older. The average age was 41.4 years. About 52.6% of the residents were female, and 47.4% were male.
Education in Remsen
Remsen is part of the Remsen Union Community School District. This district works together with the Marcus-Meriden-Cleghorn Community School District to operate schools known as "MMCRU" schools.
Remsen is also home to Remsen St. Mary's. This is a private school that is part of the Roman Catholic church.
