Since the founding of our communities, organizations, businesses and citizens have stepped forward to build and serve their community. Click on any of the logos below to learn about those who made this website possible! If you would like to learn about becoming a sponsor CLICK HERE!
- County: Howard County, IA
- Region: Northern IA
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- About Cresco, IA
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Sponsors of Cresco, IA
About Cresco, IA
Cresco, the county seat, is the largest of the communities in Howard County. Cresco is derived from the Latin term meaning “I Grow”. This growth has been evident since June 12, 1866 when Augustus Beadle had the land surveyed and platted. Within six months of the town’s formation 1,000 people called Cresco home. The city population doubled by 1890 and today Cresco has a population of roughly 4,000. The original catalyst for Cresco’s growth was the emergence of the railroad.
Horace Barber had first claim to the land Cresco now rests on in 1856. This area became known as Shook’s Grove following M.L. Shook’s purchase of the land. It was not until 1866 that Augustus Beadle finally gained ownership of this land. After Beadle gained control of the property he persuaded the railroad to build through Cresco. The railroad acted as the foundation which eventually raised Cresco to a central position in the county. It even forced the 3 neighboring communities of New Oregon, Howard Center and Vernon Springs to pack up buildings and all and move to the newly established hub. Rail service through Cresco and Howard County ended in 1983 with the tracks removed the following year. All that was left was an engine, box car, flatbed and caboose purchased from the Milwaukee Road on display in Beadle Park. Now in 2007, there is a new rebirth. The train is currently under renovation and will be restored to its original grace and beauty for more generations to enjoy. Twenty-two miles of the old railroad bed has recently been paved as part of the Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail connecting the communities of Cresco, Ridgeway and Calmar. Now you and your family can ride your bikes or stroll along the same trail that brought the earliest settlers to Howard County.
Businesses of Cresco, IA
The businesses of our towns are truly the lifeblood of each community, click on any businesses below to learn about them, to learn how to add your business to your town and county page CLICK HERE!
Community Organizations of Cresco, IA
Small towns and rural communities throughout the Midwest are looking for ways to strengthen their economies, provide better quality of life, and build on local assets. Here you will find the organizations that stabilize, preserve, and revitalize the small towns and rural areas alike. To submit your organization to be included on your town and county page CLICK HERE!
Events of Cresco, IA
The small towns of the Midwest have long shared pride in their communities through festivals and events! Citizens from each community, working together, continue to offer entertainment options that not only appeal to their citizens, but visitors to their community! Below you will find festivals and events you are sure to want to attend! If you would like to have (DST) include an annual festival or event on your town and county page CLICK HERE!
Faith Organizations of Cresco, IA
Throughout the years faith organizations have not only been an essential part of a town's religious life, but its community life. Below you will find stories about these organizations, If you would like to induct a faith organization to be added to your town and county page CLICK HERE!
Points of Interest of Cresco, IA
The communities of the Midwest have a lifestyle unique to their region — rich in history and points of interest like no other! Below you will find points of interest you are sure to want to visit! To nominate a landmark, historic location, museum, etc. as a point of interest on your county and region page CLICK HERE!
Howard County, IA
Visit our county page and you will find information about our town and county's points of interest, festivals/events and faith community. You also will learn about the community organizations that have built and continue to build strong communities (chambers, community groups, and departments, etc) and much more when you visit the Howard County, IA page.
Veterans of Howard County, IA
Veterans come from many walks of life and whether a veteran has severed two decades ago or two days ago, they have made our freedoms possible. Below you will find stories about many who have served. If you would like to nominate a veteran to be included on your town and county page CLICK HERE!
