Columbus Junction a Century of Prosperity and Fire
Columbus Junction grew at the junction of the B N and Rock Island lines, prospering with hotels, shops and a strong civic frame. Early history recalls fires in 1887 1888 and 1889 a notable post office opening in 1872 and incorporation after a 55 17 vote. The town built schools churches lodges a renowned brass band and a robust G A R presence.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Louisa County National Bank
Sargent & Carter
Postoffice
Columbus Junction
U. S
Circuit Court
C. M. Fulton
M. Wheelock
S. W. True
W. F. Hall
William Todd
C. E. Hobbie
Robert Foster
S. W. Merrill Theo
Crilley
A. T. Lewis
R. H. Hanna
Methodist
Evangelical Association
Reformed Church
Masonic Order
Odd Fellows
K. of P.’s
Iowa
Langenburg
51St Iowa Regiment
Columbus Junction Fairs and Fire Scene Highlight Local Progress
The article recalls a large fire starting at Front street destroying twenty five buildings while firefighters saved homes including Dr. Barrows and George Gardner's residences. It notes the city’s celebrated fairs, racing events, and farm product exhibits drawing thousands to Columbus Junction.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Columbus Junction
Association
Columbus Junction Through Growth From Rail to Town Status
Based on early records, Columbus Junction grew from a rail extension point at Sand Bank in 1857 to a town platted in 1870. J W Garner led the founding efforts, opened the first restaurant, and a child Carrie Gilbert was born in the first shanty. Wortham & Co later boomed the town as Asa Merrill built the first public school building.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Geo. Jamison
Wortham
Columbus Junction
Rock Island Road
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific
Carrie
August
Anna Gilbert
Sarah White
Asa Merrill
A. W. Hall
Fire Nearly Destroys City Center In Early Morning Blaze
A Holliday's livery barn fire at about four in the morning engulfed the north block of Front street, threatening widespread ruin. Firefighters fought heat and flames until aid from Washington arrived at 5 45, saving some structures and stopping spread toward Murdock house. The report notes strong fair facilities, good railroad access, and a well maintained race track at the fair grounds.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Columbus Junction
Holliday
Front Street
Walnut Street
Murdock House
Washington
Also Mentioned on This Page
Louisa County
Ian
August Gilbert
Seecking
Muscatine
the Public Schools
W. H. Barrows
George Gardner
Walnut
Wortham & Co
Washington Department
Dr. C. L. Girls
E. 2d St
Muscatine, Ia
J. L. Klein
Iowa Ave
Hal
Pine St
C. B. Fuller
Corner Stone
East Second St
Muscatine, Iowa
Henry Geiss
West Second Street
W. G. Biock
Me Frank
BRAUN
Jacob Hess
Saddlery
W. 2Nd St. Muscatine, la
J. S. Kulp
Cook, Musser Company Bank
W. Stapleton
German-American Bank
This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!