2020-2021 VISITORS GUIDE

www.VillagesofVanBuren.com 800.868.7822 Villages of Van Buren 809 First Street, PO Box 9 Keosauqua, IA 52565 800.868.7822 / 319.293.7111 Fax: 319.293.7116 Email: [email protected] villagesofvanburen.com

The Van Buren County Welcome Center & McCoy Historical Museum in downtown Keosauqua should be your first stop when visiting the Villages! You’ll enjoy browsing through the 1870 quintessential Folk Style house admiring the collectible antiques, photos and memorabilia displayed throughout the brick & stone building. The helpful staff will provide you with fun things to see and do in all 11 Villages which include: Birmingham, , Bonaparte, Cantril, Douds, Farmington, Keosauqua, Milton, Mt.Sterling, Selma & Stockport. Enjoy your visit in the Villages of Van Buren... a world left untouched by time.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Shopping...... 2-5 House of Worship...... 25 Dining & Drinks...... 5-7 Service Stations...... 25 Leisure & Fun...... 7-9 Convenience Stores...... 25 Trails...... 9 Wellness...... 26 Historical Sites...... 10-13 Community Service...... 26 The Villages...... 13-14,17-18 Home & Construction....26 County Map...... 15-16 Financial / Insurance..26-27 Lodging...... 19-22 Utilities...... 27 Campgrounds...... 22-24 Special Events...... 28 Meeting Facilities...... 24 Index...... 29 Realtors...... 24 Our Neighbors...... 30 Healthcare...... 25

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Printing by: J&A Printing, Inc. J&A Printing, Inc. 11551155 Sherman Rd,Rd Hiawatha Hiawatha,319.750.1781 52233 319.750.1766japrinting.com japrinting.com Locatedof specialized in Iowa, solutions as a commercial taillored printer to your our print team project. is devoted We to providingare the source the highest for everything quality print print from including your marketing mailing, pieces laser to- directing, lettershop, mail. Delivering personalization, service and satisfaction,fulfillment, ourpromotions commitment & tospecialties. serving our Call customers Diane Albright supports to them schedule in achieving an appointment! their goals. S H O P P I N G C A N T R I L Dutchman’s Store 103 Division Street, Cantril 319.397.2322 dutchmansstore.com Visit our expanded store with a large selection of bulk food and candy items, fresh produce, deli, and many grocery items. Fabric & craft room, shoes, boots, homemade items and a variety of unique gift items. Seasonal specials, spring bedding plants and SO much more! At Dutchman’s Store you’ll always find friendly, helpful service, low prices and unique merchandise! Come visit us today and take a step back in time! Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-5pm. Closed Sun. ATM inside. MILTON Milton Creamery 202 East Hwy 2, Milton 641.656.4094 miltoncreamery.com The Musser family mixes fresh ingredients, art and passion to create internationally award-winning cheese. Traditional Amish dairy farmers produce milk used at Milton Creamery. The cheese makers craft each batch before hand-packing, pressing and aging to perfection. Stop by and sample their selection of curds and fine cheeses. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 9am-4pm. Closed Sun. Email: [email protected] LEBANON Yoder’s Indian Creek Furniture LLC 22769 Route V64, Milton, IA 52570 (South of Lebanon) 319.538.7332 (voicemail) Visit our store for quality hardwood furniture. Great selection of tables, chairs, hutches, bedroom sets including high quality mattress sets, rockers, gliders, recliners, pie safes, end tables and lots of small gift items as well. Also, rustic cedar log furniture, maintenance free outdoor furniture, wind chimes, bird feeders, gazebos and so much more. Bring us your dreams and we will custom build to your needs. 4 mi. North of Cantril or 3/4 mi. South of Lebanon on Route V64. Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-5pm. Closed Sundays. Also closed on Jan 1, April 10, May 21, Nov 26, Dec 25-26. BENTONSPORT Addie May Fudge 21964 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 641.233.7793 For the best fudge in the county, stop by the one and only Addie May Fudge! Our fudge is crafted in small batches to perfection for customers like you, who appreciate the mouthwatering difference. You’ll truly love our 18 flavors of fresh butter and cream fudge made available daily! Now located in the Historic Greef General Store. “Like” us on Facebook.

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 2 S H O P P I N G BENTONSPORT Carriage House Quilts 21937 Marion Street, Bentonsport 319.288.1042 bportquilts.com Formerly known as Bentonsport Quilt Company. Located in an 1841 Carriage House, it is a shop full of charm and unique items at reasonable prices. We carry name brand quilting fabric, wool, hand & mill dyed, embroidery thread, patterns, kits & gift items. Longarm quilting is available. Sun-Tues by chance or appointment, Wed & Fri, 10am-4pm, Sat, 10am-2pm, Closed Thursday. Historic Greef General Store 21964 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 319.592.3579 What once was a busy 1840’s general store that provided everyday essentials to a bustling river community is now an antique store. You’ll find local handmade crafts, a wide variety of antiques and Addie May Fudge. We also have several Indian & local artifacts on display. Open Wed-Mon, 10am-4pm. Closed Tuesdays. Nov-April open Fri & Sat, 10am-4pm. “Like” us on Facebook. Iron & Lace 21952 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 319.592.3222 ironandlace.com Unique store featuring Queen Anne’s Lace pottery, raku, hand forged artistic ironwork, handmade jewelry, over 200 hand woven rugs & placemats. Demonstrations by chance or appointment. A must-see shop! Open Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat 10am-5pm, May-October or call for an appointment. Odd Fellas Woodshop 21903 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 319.592.3395 Visit with our woodworkers and browse our selection of carved figurines, walking sticks, wood kitchen tools, interior decor & specialty items. One owner is a life-long woodcarver & the other a designer of furniture and unique gifts. The historic Iowa Odd Fellows Museum is upstairs and can be scheduled for tours during your visit by texting 515.991.0395. Open Thurs-Sun, 10am-4pm (April-October); Fri & Sat, 10am-4pm (November-December). The She Shed 21960 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 319.288.1042 Discover a shop full of unique crafts, stained glass, weaving, wool applique, embroidery, patterns, kits, florals, quilts, gift items and so much more! It’s a great place where friends can gather to relax, visit and shop. Classes available...call for information! Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm. Closed Sunday. (April-November)

3 villagesofvanburen.com S H O P P I N G BONAPARRTE Bonaparte Leather Company / Holmes Leather Crafting 605 First Street, Bonaparte 573.337.9793 / 319.217.3677 bonaparteleatherco.com Your local outlet for leather goods and repair. We feature jackets, vests, hats & gloves, as well as leather repair and custom leather work including belts, earrings, holsters, sheaths and more. We also sell accessories for motorcycles and riders. Come see our Damascus knives and line of unique toys and wood models. There truly is something for everyone! Yvonne Hurd, Proprietor & Stewart Holmes, Master Craftsman. Simply Irresistible 622 First Street, Bonaparte 903.571.3844 Established in 1894 as Dr. Bogle’s Bonaparte Drug Company, our building has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, you’ll find vintage items, collectibles, cards, clothing, memorabilia, jewelry, tools...a little bit of everything! Even an old-time soda fountain, chips and candy. Open Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm. Sunrise Bakery 21913 White Avenue, Bonaparte 319.677.0865 (voicemail) Visit the county’s only Amish bakery for an assortment of delicious baked & canned goods and homemade noodles. Fresh fried pies, donuts and cream-filled long johns on Friday & Saturday. Homemade candy available in the fall. Join them for their popular Amish buffet on select weekends throughout the year. (See villagesofvanburen.com for dates.) Catering and special meals for family gatherings, etc. also available. Open Tues-Sat, 9am-6pm.

Waterfront Place Uncover hidden treasures and find a 606 First Street, Bonaparte piece of the past! We offer a unique 319.592.3773 variety of antiques and collectibles. Stop by today! Open Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm or by appointment. KEOSAUQUA Flower House 715 First Street, Keosauqua 319.293.7878 keosauquaflowerhouse.net Floral, Gifts, Home Decor & More! We specialize in weddings, blooming plants, green plants, tropicals, silks, gifts, home decor, jewelry and even have locally made t-shirts! We offer traditional and contemporary floral designs that are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, get well, new baby, sympathy, holidays or just because. Stop in and browse our home decor and gift item selection. Locally owned by Megan Wilson and Debbie Tedrow. Hours: Mon-Wed & Friday, 9am-5pm. Thurs & Sat, 9am-Noon. Closed Sunday.

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 4 S H O P P I N G KEOSAUQUA Keosauqua Chamber keosauqua.com Keosauqua has a unique blend of historic architecture, natural beauty, quaint shops and business opportunity. Despite its size, it provides its residents with vital goods and services. A full-service hospital, pharmacy and dentist offices all operate within the community. Visitors have a variety of dining and lodging options including the iconic . Visitors can enjoy shopping, golf, tennis, swimming, trails or the . Beautiful Lacey-Keosauqua State Park provides additional lodging and recreation. Troublesome Creek Outfitters 108 Main Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3848 troublesome-creek.com See us for all your and fishing needs including licenses, live bait, tackle, archery, guns and ammo. Hours: 7am-5pm. Open 7 days a week, all year. Wasko Hardware 810 First Street, Keosauqua 319.293.6468 waskohardware.com We carry a variety of items for your convenience. Plumbing, electrical, kitchenware, camping supplies and more! Our helpful and friendly staff will help you find a solution for your project. And if we don’t have what you need in store, we will order it for you. Open Mon-Fri, 7:30am-5:30pm; Saturday, 8am-5pm. D I N I N G & D R I N K S BONAPARTE Bonaparte Retreat 713 First Street, Bonaparte 319.592.3339 bonaparteretreat.com Located in a refurbished grist mill that was built in 1878. Enjoy a hearty meal in a truly unique atmosphere and make dinner an event at the regionally famous Retreat, a Southeastern Iowa tradition! Lunch served daily 11am-1pm. Dinner served at 5pm. Closed Sunday evening. DOUDS Lunch Box Cafe 14191 Hwy 98, Douds 641.936.4444 Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 11am-7pm. Home cooked meals Thursday & Friday. You’ll love our Bigfoot Tenderloins, Texas Tators, Bug-Z Burger, Chicken Club & Salads. Catfish is served every Friday night 5-7pm and Homemade Tacos on Saturday. Stop in for some of the best cookin’ around and enjoy browsing our extensive collections of memorabilia. 5 villagesofvanburen.com D I N I N G & D R I N K S FARMINGTON Bridge Cafe & Supper Club 101 Olive Street, Farmington 319.878.4000 Featured in Our Iowa Magazine’s Directory of Iowa’s Best Ma & Pa Restaurants! Established in 1932, we’re still locally owned, serving quality food at reasonable prices. We are famous for our homemade pies, entree menu & specialty nights. Our popular buffets include weekend breakfast, nightly (Wed-Sat) and Sunday noon. Or enjoy a steak, salmon or shrimp dinner with your favorite wine! Walk into our cafe side and you’re immediately one of the locals. Open daily: 6am-9pm. Catering available. Free WiFi. KEOSAUQUA First Street Grille 719 1st Street, Keosauqua 319.293.6462 First Street Grille has been in business for over 10 years. We now offer pizza delivery (Thurs- Sun) and are open 6 days a week (Closed Mondays) with daily homemade lunch specials. We are known for our unique appetizers and great Burgers! We also have Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, Seafood and Steaks. Our large selection of Draft Beers, some from local breweries makes us a favorite hang-out. A great place to stop & relax in our homey atmosphere. Open Tues-Thurs, 11am-9pm; Fri & Sat, 11am-2am; Sunday, 11am-9pm. Great Day Cafe 202 Main Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3581 It’s always a great day at the Great Day Cafe! Stop in for a signature specialty coffee and enjoy some homemade fudge, pies & assorted desserts. We also have a variety of breakfast options including made from scratch biscuits & gravy. Lunch options include paninis, salads, tenderloins, wraps, assorted burgers, gourmet specialty franks & more! The menu has something for everyone! This family run cafe is open Tuesday-Saturday, 7am-2pm. Private meeting room available. Misty’s Malt Shop 106 Main Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3815 We are located just off the bridge on Highway 1 in Keosauqua. Serving homemade tenderloins, sandwiches, wraps, salads and more for lunch & supper. Breakfast served Mon-Sat. Stop in for one of our tasty ice cream treats and be sure to try our world-famous black raspberry ice cream! Indoor dining area and outdoor seating available next to our convenient walk-up ordering window. Open 7 days a week. Open until 10pm in the summer. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 6 D I N I N G & D R I N K S KEOSAUQUA Riverbend Pizza and Steakhouse 603 First Street, Keosauqua 319.293.9900 We take pride in operating a clean, casual and family-friendly restaurant. Our walls are adorned with historic photos that tell the stories of the 1850’s in Van Buren County. You’ll love our phenomenal pizzas, amazing steaks, appetizers and fresh-breaded tenderloins! Our onion rings, chicken wings, fried pickle spears & Iowa ‘Soft Shell Tacos’ are local favorites! We have a variety of daily specials with Mexican dishes, pastas, soups & more! We’re open Monday-Saturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, 11am-7pm. Stop in for lunch or dinner! Town & Country Tavern 203 Van Buren Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3879 Open every day, year-round. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 4-6pm. Join us for our famous Bloody Mary’s at “The Bar Where Friends Meet.” Stop in and relax at the friendliest bar in town! Vets Club Bar & Grill 202 Van Buren Street, Keosauqua 319.293.9153 As the Vets Club, formerly the VFW, we continue to honor all veterans. Open to the public every day, all year round! If we’re open, our kitchen is open! Serving up food fresh off the grill with fried chicken every Friday night, 5-7pm. Open 7 days a week, all year. Monday, 2-6pm; Tues & Wed, 10am-close; Thurs, 9am- close; Fri & Sat, 11am-close; Sunday, 11am-5pm. L E I S U R E & F U N Bloom and Bark - Keosauqua 18517 County Road J40, Keosauqua 319.293.6168 bloomandbark.com Glass Blowing Studio, Local Artisan Market & Natural Farm. Find the artist within! No experience needed, just a desire to create something fun! Glass blowing classes available year-round. Shop our new Local Artisan Market, filled with local art and fine crafts ranging from glass to fiber and everything in between. A little something for everyone. Join us on the farm where you will find fruits & vegetables while in season and jams & jellies all the time! Check out the clay ovens we built to make artisan bread. Open by appointment or chance. Crane Winery - Selma 11420 Main Street, Selma 641.777.7749 Visit our tasting room inside the Odd Fellows Lodge #350 built in 1876. Enjoy sampling our sweet wines while you browse local historic photos, including a Selma Consolidated School District photo collection spanning from 1922-1960. Open Saturdays & Sundays, 11am-5pm. 7 villagesofvanburen.com L E I S U R E & F U N Cedar Valley Winery - Batavia 2034 Dewberry Avenue, Batavia 641.662.2800 cedarvalleywine.com Cedar Valley Winery produces nationally recognized, award- winning, estate grown and estate bottled wines from grapes grown exclusively in our 8-acre vineyard. Our annual wine production of approx. 2,500 gallons continues to increase each year. Visit our Tasting Room, tour the winery and enjoy your favorite wines on our outdoor deck, overlooking our picturesque vineyard, nestled in Southeast Iowa’s beautiful countryside. Sophisticated serenity awaits you. Open Mon-Thurs, 1-6pm; Fri & Sun, Noon-6pm; Saturday, 10am-6pm. Circuit 180 - Douds 14916 175th Street, Douds circuit180.com Circuit 180 is one of the premier motocross facilities in the Midwest! Home to AMA District 22 and Iowa Enduro Riders Association (IERA) racing. Camping allowed during events. Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook and watch for our 2020 events! Hel-Mart - Farmington 301 State Street, Farmington 319.878.3576 / 319.371.6783 Located in the former Sterling Woolen Mills building, you’ll say “Hel-Yes” to this unique store. It features discounted items, a large convention area, Miniature Dollhouse room, an impressive Rocking Horse Display, a Train Room with an extensive 1,100 sq. ft. HO train display and the Hel-Mart Lounge. Also serving soft-serve ice cream with cones, shakes & sundaes. A 60 foot hitching rail welcomes horses and their riders! Open on Saturday’s only, 9am-5pm. Closed during January. Rent A Horse - Farmington 1116 Hwy 2, Farmington 319.878.3596 westercamps.weebly.com Ride a guided 2 1/2-hour trail ride on one of our horses or mules through for only $40 per person. We are open every day! Call for reservations. Riverview Country Club - Keosauqua 217 Riverview Drive, Keosauqua 319.293.3200 theriverviewclub.com Looking for outdoor fun? Visit Riverview! Enjoy our new outdoor pool, tennis courts and the county’s only 9-hole golf course. Public is always welcome! Open April-October, 8am-9pm.

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 8 L E I S U R E & F U N Villages Folk School - Keosauqua 809 First Street, Keosauqua 319.288.0047 villagesfolkschool.com 16 local artists open their studios to offer over 70 classes year-round in traditional and contemporary arts. Glass Blowing, Pottery, Painting, Letterpress, Foraging, Blacksmithing, Rug Weaving, Soap Making & more. Van Buren County Trails Bentonsport River Trail - 1/2 mile hiking. Bentonsport Nature Trail - 2 mile hiking with interpretive signage. Waubonsie Park Trail - (Cantril) 1 mile gravel, bike & pedestrian trail, covered bridges, picnic areas. Shimek State Forest - (Farmington) Extensive trail system with rough terrain. Hike, snowmobile, bike & equestrian trails. Indian Lake Park - (Farmington) 2.2 mile gravel, bike & pedestrian. Benches and picnic area. Keosauqua Loop Trail - 2+ miles with trail head at Roberts Memorial Building on Hwy 1 N. Bike & pedestrian trail with asphalt/gravel surfaces. Map available. Lindsay Wilderness - (Bonaparte) 200 acres of public hunting, hiking trails with 2 stocked ponds. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park - Extensive trail system (approx. 13 miles), rough terrain. Map available. Milton Trail Park - 1.5 mile gravel, bike & pedestrian. Benches, covered bridges and a shelterhouse. Trail heads on Hwy 2 or Old Main Street. Van Buren County Water Trail - 41 miles on the Des Moines River. Boats, canoes, kayaks. Eight access points between Selma and Farmington. Brochure available, includes map. Van Buren County Conservation Areas vbcountyconservation.com ~ Bonaparte ~ Des Moines River Access – (8 acres) 2 miles S. of Bonaparte (S. side of the river). Boat ramp, public hunting & fishing. Lindsay Wilderness – (200 acres) NE of Bonaparte. Public hunting & hiking. Reno Timber – (60 acres) NE of Bonaparte. Public hunting, hiking. White Timber – (10 acres) 2.8 m. from Bonaparte (Hwy 2 East) & 100 yards South of Hwy 2. Public hunting. ~ Bentonsport ~ Bentonsport Timber – (60 acres) NE of Bentonsport. Public hunting & hiking. ~ Selma ~ Shidepoke Access – West of Selma. Boat access to Des Moines River. Fishing. ~ Keosauqua Area ~ Austin Park – 2 miles NE of Pittsburg on Des Moines River. Boat Access, primitive camping & fishing. Toilet & shelterhouse. Chequest Area – (38 acres) 2 miles West of Pittsburg. Public hunting & hiking. Daughrity Timber – (83 acres) 1 mile West of Hwy 1 on 240th Street. Public hunting & hiking. Schultz Conservation Area – (2 acres) 2 miles West of Kilbourn (South side). Public hunting, fishing & hiking. 9 villagesofvanburen.com H I S T O R I C A L S I T E S Historic Presbyterian Church - Bentonsport 21827 Ridge Road, Bentonsport 319.592.3222 Dedicated in 1855, it was one of four churches that served the town. The church is available for wedding rentals and is open to the public 10am-5pm daily, May-October. Sunday church services, seasonally at 9am. National Historic Bonaparte Pottery Archaeological Site 411 First Street, Bonaparte 319.592.3620 bonaparte-pottery.com Established in 1865, the pottery produced a variety of stoneware until 1896. Archaeological digging continues and several original pieces have been found. Take a fascinating guided tour through Iowa’s only remaining pottery site and then visit the gallery and museum with a wide range of unique pottery. Historically exact pieces available from the 1875 molds. Email: [email protected] Aunty Green Hotel Museum - Bonaparte 210 Washington Street, Bonaparte 319.751.5020 Built in c. 1848 the Hall & Parlor structure was the first brick home in Bonaparte. In c. 1855, it was converted into a hotel and is now a museum. Open during special events or by appointment. Douds Depot 14168 Walnut Street, Douds 319.293.3209 / 641.936.4485 The Douds Depot was built in 1907, replacing an earlier structure, and remained in service until 1972. It is presently a mining and railroad museum. Open by appointment. Mt. Moriah Church - Douds 14889 120th Street, Douds 319.293.3209 / 641.936.4485 The Mt. Moriah Methodist Church was built in 1892. It served a congregation until 1958. In 1997, the church was restored. The church is located 2 miles north of Douds. It is the only surviving country church in the county in near original condition located on the original site of a church/cemetery combination. The church is open during special events or by appointment. Oak Grove Community - Douds 15818 Iowa Oak Grove Avenue, Douds 319.293.3066 The Oak Grove School held its first classes in 1872. A new addition was built in 1909 and the building served students until 1959. The adjacent Oak Grove Church was built in 1895 and is one of the last remaining church/schoolhouse sites in the state. Open for special events or by appointment.

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 10 H I S T O R I C A L S I T E S Valley School No. 3 - Douds 14779 Ferris Street, Douds 319.293.3209 / 641.936.4485 This old country school was built in 1928 and served as a school until 1966. It remained as a community building and polling place until 1990. In 1995, the building was moved six miles into the Memorial Park in Leando. The school has been restored and is complete with period furnishings. Open by appointment. Eldon Depot Museum & Rocket Room Model Railroad - Eldon 405 KD Avenue, Eldon 660.349.9843 eldondepotmuseum.org ALL ABOARD! Come check out our authentic caboose & flatcar and then blow the whistle on the locomotive! Tour the museum (original Rock Island Depot) to see telegraph equipment, tools, passenger train items, signals, pictures, articles & more. Housed in a separate “Rocket Room” building is a huge model railroad display & motorcar. Free to the public! Open Saturday & Sunday, 1-4pm (May-Sept). “Like” us on Facebook and join our public group, Eldon Iowa Model Railroad. Pioneer Museum - Farmington 205 S. 4th Street, Farmington 319.470.3374 / 303.518.8591 / 319.878.3785 The First Congregational Church of Farmington was built in January 1848. It was modeled after the rural New England churches, and houses many artifacts and historical items. It is the second oldest Congregational Church building West of the Mississippi. Open House on May 9, June 13-14, Oct 10-11, Dec 5-6 & 12-13. Open weekends 1-4pm (April 1-Oct) or by appt. Pearson House Museum Complex - Keosauqua 718 Dodge Street, Keosauqua 641.431.0581 This stone and brick house was built c. 1845. A trap door hiding place under the floor, which can still be viewed, endorse local legacy this was a station on the Underground Railroad, a dramatic escape route for runaway slaves. Also featured is a one-room schoolhouse with original desks. The Log Cabin is furnished for 1800’s living. Open Sundays, 1-4pm. (Memorial Day-Mid October) or by appointment. Twombly Museum - Keosauqua 801 First Street, Keosauqua 641.431.0581 Voltaire Twombly was the first Iowan to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. In 1875, he established a mercantile on the first floor and his home above in this landmark limestone building. Museum artifacts showcase the rich history of Van Buren County. Open by appointment. 11 villagesofvanburen.com H I S T O R I C A L S I T E S Van Buren County Courthouse - Keosauqua 902 Fourth Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3129 Listed on the National Register of Historic Places this 1843 courthouse is the oldest in Iowa which has remained in continuous use and the second oldest in the United States. In 1846, the courthouse was the scene of the first legal death sentencing and hanging in Iowa. Open for free tours Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm. Milton Heritage House 217 N. Main Street, Milton 319.288.1162 Built in 1898 as a Presbyterian Church and remained as such until 1950 when it was sold to the Nazarene Congregation. Today it is owned by the Heritage Society and is under restoration. Open during special events or by appointment. Selma Log Cabin Hwy 16 West, Selma 641.936.8822 / 641.777.7762 Selma’s log cabin was built in 1846. The cabin was moved to the park from its original site east of town and restored in 1969. It is owned by the Van Buren County Historical Society. Open for special events or by appointment. Morris Park - Stockport 10938 Timber Road, Stockport 319.796.2253 In addition to camping, hiking and fishing, you can experience a piece of history in this quiet county park. The log cabin is furnished as it would have been in 1838, the 1868 schoolhouse has era-correct furnishings. The Big Barn is the highlight, with several pieces of antique farming equipment including a horse-drawn hearse, complete with a coffin. There is also a climate-controlled museum for historic textiles and other sensitive artifacts. Peavine Line Museum - Stockport 317-694-0407 The depot/museum was built in 1882 at Longview (2.5m. NW of town). In 1890, the depot was moved on two flat cars to the current location at the 4-way stop in Stockport. You will find railroad memorabilia from the C.B. & Q. Railroad, and the Peavine Line that ran from Ft. Madison to Ottumwa. The railroad began as a narrow gauge, by 1890 it had changed to a standard gauge. The rails in front of the depot date back to 1889. Open during special events or by appointment. Indian Artifact Museum - Bentonsport 21929 Des Moines Street, Bentonsport View an extensive collection of Indian artifacts including an impressive display of arrowheads. The artifacts are displayed in intricately designed inlaid wood showcases. Open weekends or by chance. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 12 H I S T O R I C A L S I T E S Mormon Trail The Mormon Trail is the 1,300 mile route that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints traveled from 1846 to 1868. The Mormon Trail extends from Nauvoo, IL, to Salt Lake City, Utah. In 1846, Brigham Young’s party entered Van Buren County. They camped downstream from the current bridge at Bonaparte. Some of the families settled in Bentonsport and labored doing construction (many of these buildings still stand today.) Later, the Pioneers took a route along the Dragoon Trail (approximately along Hwy 2) into Keosauqua, crossing the river at Ely’s Ford in Lacey-Keosauqua State Park and on to Richardson’s Point Camp (11251 Route J40, Milton) where the first deaths of the journey took place. The marked graves are memorialized with free access for visitors. Wickfield Farm Sales Pavilion - Cantril 17451 260th Street, Cantril The 1918 4-story round barn was known as the largest Hampshire Hog farm in the world. The barn is 52’ in diameter and 65’ tall. The basement included a dining room, kitchen, electric lighting plant and a fruit cellar. The main floor was the sales pavilion, the second floor had eight dormitory rooms and the crow’s nest was a social parlor. It has been a sales pavilion, a packing plant, dormitory and was raided as a “speakeasy” during prohibition days. Today, the barn is privately owned and is awaiting its next owners. T H E V I L L A G E S KEOSAUQUA 319.293.3536 keosauqua.com Keosauqua, pronounced KEE-o-SAW-kwa, the county seat, is the largest Village with a population of 1006. It is located on the north side of the natural “horseshoe” shaped bend in the Des Moines River and in the midst of woodland hillsides. Located in the heart of the County, Keosauqua offers a quaint downtown and nearby is Lacey-Keosauqua State Park and , Iowa’s premier fishing lake. It is home to several preserved historical sites such as the Pearson House Museum Complex, a confirmed safe house on the Underground Railroad, and the Van Buren County Courthouse which is the oldest courthouse (in continuous use) West of the Mississippi and second oldest in the nation. Experience small town hospitality at its best! 13 villagesofvanburen.com T H E V I L L A G E S BENTONSPORT bentonsportheritage.org Bentonsport National Historic District was once a thriving port of call on the Des Moines River with an estimated pop. of 650 people. Today, there are approx. 40 residents, most of them living in the original 1840 structures. The picturesque village was named 1 of the 10 most beautiful towns in Iowa by Culturetrip.com. You’ll discover historic bed & breakfasts, rental cottages, antique and craft shops, resident artisans such as pot- ters, blacksmith, quilters, sculptors & more. The old truss bridge is now a pedestrian bridge and the former mill site has been transformed into a beautiful Rose Garden. BIRMINGHAM 319.498.4296 showcase.netins.net/web/djnsweb/bham/ Birmingham (pop. 441) was laid out in 1839. The city park, located in the center of this charming Village, features a new park shelter, a beautifully restored gazebo and a historic log cabin, originally built in 1923 by veterans of WWI and community volunteers to serve as an American Legion Post. This outdoor setting provides an excellent environment for weddings, receptions, family reunions and community events. BONAPARTE 319-592-3400 bonaparte-iowa.com Within this small village (pop. 426), situated along the banks of the Des Moines River, is the historic Riverfront District which was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. The Riverfront District is garnished with a butterfly garden, historic lock walls, a refurbished bandshell, and restored mills. Visitors enjoy the architecture, unique shops and the down-home friendly atmosphere. It has received recognition as one of 12 Distinctive Destinations in the nation, an acknowledg- ment given by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. CANTRIL 319-397-2295 cantrilia.com Cantril (pop. 221) was founded in 1872 and is currently the heart of the Amish & Mennonite communities. In fact, a highlight for thousands of visitors is the Dutchman’s Store, a Mennonite owned & operated old-fashioned general store. You won’t want to miss the beautiful 25-acre Waubonsie Trail Park, a nature lovers dream. You can camp, fish, have a picnic, play disc golf, or take the 1.5 mile walk along the rock trail complete with 3 covered bridges.

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 14 Explore & Enjoy Van Buren County, Iowa

To Fairfield To Cedar Valley Winery MorrisMorris ParkPark SelmaCrane Winery V64V64 Morris Park (just before Batavia) Birmingham 115th St. Campground 34 Timber Rd. Timber J16 J16 Stockport To Eldon Depot MuseumDouds & W30W30

American Gothic House To Burlington 218 To Ottumwa To Mt. Pleasant Leando DesDes MoinesMoines RiverRiver

V64V64 Circuit 180 W40 W40

To Richardson’s Point Pittsburg DesDes MoinesMoines RiverRiver To Bloomfield J40J40 Bloom and Bark J40 Sunrise Lebanon J40 BentonsportAlexander’s Cottage Bentonsport Village B&B Bakery

White Ave. J40 Mason House Inn J40 J40 Church Retreat J40J40 J40 Keosauqua J40J40 Lacey-KeosauquaLacey-Keosauqua J40J40 Yoder’s StateState ParkPark Vernon Indian A-Frame Lacey Trail V56 V64 Pine Ridge Retreat V56 Creek V64 Red Fox Lodging Co. W46W46 Furniture Lake Shore Hideout Bonaparte LakeLake SugemaSugema W40W40 Milton Shimek State Wickfield Farm Sales Pavilion Shimek State Milton Forest Creamery Forest W20W20 V56V56 WaubonsieCantril Park Cabins Farmington & Campground

Indian Lake H a Indian Lake RiverRiver Valley w Indian Lake Park k J56 D J56 r Mt. Sterling Cabins & CampgroundP Lodge . J56J56 Little Cedar Lodge

To Ft. Madison To Keokuk Historic Hills Scenic Byway To Nauvoo, IL

15 villagesofvanburen.com Explore & Enjoy Van Buren County, Iowa

To Fairfield To Cedar Valley Winery MorrisMorris ParkPark SelmaCrane Winery V64V64 Morris Park (just before Batavia) Birmingham 115th St. Campground 34 Timber Rd. Timber J16 J16 Stockport To Eldon Depot MuseumDouds & W30W30

American Gothic House To Burlington 218 To Ottumwa To Mt. Pleasant Leando DesDes MoinesMoines RiverRiver

V64V64 Circuit 180 W40 W40

To Richardson’s Point Pittsburg DesDes MoinesMoines RiverRiver To Bloomfield J40J40 Bloom and Bark J40 Sunrise Lebanon J40 BentonsportAlexander’s Cottage Bentonsport Village B&B Bakery

White Ave. J40 Mason House Inn J40 J40 Church Retreat J40J40 J40 Keosauqua J40J40 Lacey-KeosauquaLacey-Keosauqua J40J40 Yoder’s StateState ParkPark Vernon Indian A-Frame Lacey Trail V56 V64 Pine Ridge Retreat V56 Creek V64 Red Fox Lodging Co. W46W46 Furniture Lake Shore Hideout Bonaparte LakeLake SugemaSugema W40W40 Milton Shimek State Wickfield Farm Sales Pavilion Shimek State Milton Forest Creamery Forest W20W20 V56V56 WaubonsieCantril Park Cabins Farmington & Campground

Indian Lake H a Indian Lake RiverRiver Valley w Indian Lake Park k J56 D J56 r Mt. Sterling Cabins & CampgroundP Lodge . J56J56 Little Cedar Lodge

To Ft. Madison To Keokuk Historic Hills Scenic Byway To Nauvoo, IL

319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 16 T H E V I L L A G E S DOUDS / LEANDO Douds and Leando are fondly referred to as Van Buren County’s “Twin Cities”. Leando (south side of Des Moines River) was settled in the 1830s. Douds was platted about 30 years later but never incorporated. From 1830 to 1990 there was no buying or selling intoxicating liquor in Douds. The two towns saw much rivalry until the river bridge was built in 1898. Today the two cities have joined and are regarded as one community, Douds. Douds is home to the largest underground limestone mine in the state, which is operating today as Douds Stone, Inc. FARMINGTONFarmington (pop. 652), platted in 319.878.3711 1839, is the oldest village of Van farmingtoniowa.com Buren County. It is home to the annual Strawberry Festival held in June, beautiful Indian Lake Park, the lush woods of Shimek State Forest and the Pioneer Historical Museum, a place you can get lost in the artifacts and stories of the past. MILTON 641.656.4454 Milton (pop. 418), which sits on the western border of the county, was founded in 1844, platted in 1851 and incorporated in 1878. It is home to the award winning Milton Creamery. As well as historic sites, Heritage House Museum & Milton Depot, which stands as a reminder of the bustling days when the railroad steamed through this quaint village. STOCKPORT 319.796.2135 The area that was to become Stockport (pop. 291) was settled in the late 1800s, it was not incorporated until 1902, making it our youngest village. The railroad reached the settlement in 1882. Stockport’s first school was organized in 1889. The village proudly shows its patriotism with an impressive “Avenue of Flags,” display four times a year; Flag Day, Memorial Day, July 4th & Veterans Day. SELMA / IOWAVILLE In the NW corner of the county, these communities are rich in Indian lore and history. A battle was fought here when a Sac & Fox war party attacked the peaceful Iowans. Chief Blackhawk and Chief Keokuk spent time in this area. Blackhawk died in 1838 of natural causes and was originally buried near Iowaville. The Iowaville cemetery has stones dating back to the mid 1800s and originated with Indian burials. 17 villagesofvanburen.com T H E V I L L A G E S LEBANON Located West of Keosauqua at the junction of J40 and V64. In 1878, the community was thriving. Today it is home to Old Order Amish families who moved here in the 1960s. Many are skilled in carpentry and woodworking. You will also find greenhouses, small engine repair, and fresh produce, just to name a few. You are welcome to stop at the businesses during normal business hours but keep in mind the Amish do not conduct business on Sundays. The Amish have their own schools (one is located at the Lebanon junction), shun electricity and modern conveniences including photographs. If you are passing by an Amish home, admire them for their dedication to a simple way of life, but please respect their beliefs and do not take their photo. VERNON This was one of the earliest towns of Van Buren County, laid out in 1837, directly across the river from Bentonsport. On June 29, 1837 a license was issued for a ferry to run between Bentonsport & Vernon. It operated 7 days a week from daylight to dusk. In 1868, a second ferry was added, making this the only location on the Des Moines River with 2 operating ferries. The iron truss bridge was built in 1883 and served vehicular traffic until the bridge was closed in 1985 when the new bridge was constructed upriver. Vernon is home to the studio (photo) of the late renowned water-color artist, Wendell Mohr. PITTSBURG Phil Stong, famed author of “State Fair”, was born here and his father operated the general store. The Pittsburg Cemetery is the burial site of Voltaire Twombly, the first Iowan to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Civil War. MT. STERLING Mt. Sterling was platted in 1853 as has been known as Wood’s Mill, Union Corners, and Gwinnupsburg, but is most popularly known by its nickname “Dog Town.” Mt. Sterling hit national and international fame in 2003 when the late Jo Hamlett, then mayor, proposed a “No Lying Ordinance” for the town which regularly hosts hunters and fisherman. In fact, Mt. Sterling has nearly 3,000 acres of public wetlands and hunting grounds, on which nearly 100 different species of wildlife have been observed including ducks, geese, swans, turkey, deer, pheasant, quail, otters, and eagles. FORGOTTEN VILLAGES / GEOCACHING Discover the Forgotten Villages of Van Buren County. Travel in the footsteps of Iowa’s first pioneers. The Van Buren County Historic Preservation Commission has located these settlements and commemorated each with a plaque marker. Each plaque has historical facts on it about the Forgotten Village it marks. Want to add some additional excitement to your Forgotten Village quest? There are now a series of 36 Geocaches that coincide with the Forgotten Villages! The map/brochure is available at the Welcome Center and at villagesofvanburen.com 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 18 L O D G I N G: Hotels/Motels Hotel Manning 100 Van Buren Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3232 hotelmanning.com The Hotel Manning is a community- owned, historic steamboat style boutique hotel on the banks of the Des Moines River. Visitors can step back in time and relax among the historic treasures that distinguish the hotel, head outside to enjoy serene river views from the hotel’s wrap around patios or unwind in the newly renovated Sample Room lounge and adjoining riverside courtyard. Enjoy one of the 15 antique furnished rooms or stay in the recently renovated Riverview Inn or Standard Motor Lodge. The Hotel Manning Preservation Group welcomes you with true Midwestern Hospitality to stay awhile, relax and enjoy. L O D G I N G: Cabins Riverside Cabins 903 Front Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3232 hotelmanning.com Three fully furnished modern cabins. Each cabin includes kitchen utensils, linens, central heating/air, and covered porch overlooking the Des Moines River. Located near the boat dock, picnic shelter, city park and adjacent to Hotel Manning. Open year round. A-Frame Lacey Trail 23634 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua 515.290.5179 keocabins.com Remote cabin on 11.5 acres bordering Lacey-Keosauqua State Park with Lake Sugema located just 1/2 mile south. Cabin comes fully furnished with a full kitchen, appliances, utensils, A/C, linens, grill, 1.5 baths, broadband internet, large flat screen TV, and 3 bedrooms that comfortably sleep up to 6. Outdoors you will have a front yard fire pit, small frog pond and a fully stocked 1.5 acre fishing pond with fire pit. $149 for 5 people. Indian Lake Park Cabins 28163 Willow Avenue, Farmington 319.878.3706 farmingtoniowa.com We offer a variety of cabins. Try one of our 2 rustic wooden cabins that sleep four for $50/night, one of our metal cabins that sleep four for $40/night or one of our larger cabins that sleep 8-10 people. All cabins have heat and A/C, private bathroom and full kitchenette. You will need to provide your own bedding, towels, and bath items. Pet friendly. Check in is at 1:00pm. Check out is at 11:00am. 19 villagesofvanburen.com L O D G I N G: Cabins Little Cedar Lodge 104 2nd Street, Mt. Sterling 573.694.6542 littlecedarlodge.com Nestled on the edge of nearly 3,000 acres of public wetlands & hunting grounds, this 3 bedroom cabin is a rustic, relaxed getaway. It’s perfect for hunting & fishing trips, weekend retreats or working vacations (Free WiFi) Sleeps 6 and offers a full kitchen, fire pit, BBQ grill, free laundry, full bath, heat/AC, towels & linens. This cozy cabin is rustic, relaxation at its finest! Pine Ridge Retreat & Lodging 24120 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua 641.919.7829 (text or call) pineridgeretreat.com Affordable, comfortable, modern cabins with small & large cabins to accommodate family reunions or various group settings. Cabins surround a private 2-acre pond for fishing, renting our paddleboat or kayak. Plug-ins for boats & campers, TVs in selected cabins, playground & free golf passes. Each cabin has fully stocked kitchens, heat, A/C, charcoal grill, fire ring & picnic tables. Ideal location next to Lake Sugema and Lacey State Park for fishing, trails & hunting. Pet friendly. Red Fox Lodging Co. 19640 Jersey Avenue, Keosauqua 319.293.3041 redfoxlodging.com Whether you’re fishing, hiking, reuniting with family and friends, hunting, or just getting away to unwind...there is no better place to do it! Take it easy in one of our fully equipped, modern log cabins. Choose between lake view or timber view. Located on the south side of Lake Sugema, near the campground. We are a perfect choice for family reunions & group getaways. Playground, fish cleaning facility & boat dock nearby. River Valley Lodge Cabins 29932 Hawk Drive, Farmington 319.878.3888 / 319.878.4208 rivervalleylodgehorsecamp.com Enjoy a unique camping experience in one of our 6 primitive character cabins, each with different themed decor. All cabins have A/C, most have mini-fridges and microwaves. Showerhouse/restroom has heat & A/C and is located within a short walk from the cabins. Check out our two NEW cowboy themed suites complete with kitchenette and bath. You bring your linens and supplies. Pet friendly. Waubonsie Park Cabins 601 W. North Street, Cantril 319.397.2193 cantrilia.com This quaint cabin, located in the campground area in Waubonsie Park, is ADA accessible and sleeps up to 6 people with 1 queen bed and 2 full size futons. Fully stocked kitchen, dining area and full bath/shower. The only thing you need to bring are your clothes, personal items and food! Free WiFi. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 20 L O D G I N G: Vacation Rentals Alexander’s Cottage 21930 Wall Street, Bentonsport 319.592.3152 / 515.975.4179 showcase.netins.net/web/alexander Relax in historic Bentonsport near the Des Moines River, listen to the birds sing, watch the deer dine on our hostas, or enjoy a campfire. The renovated 1840’s cottage sits near the defunct Rock Island line and has a screened porch, deck, two bedrooms, 1 & 1/2 baths, kitchen, living room and dining area. The cottage is fully equipped and includes TV, stereo, DVD, WiFi and washer & dryer. It is furnished with antiques and country charm. Email:[email protected] Bent River Extended Stay 701 Broad Street, Keosauqua 319.293.7766 bentriverextendedstay.com Enjoy all the comforts of home when you’re away! Our extended stay suite offers you a luxury alternative to a motel room, with 2 spacious bedrooms, large living room, full kitchen & bath. We now have a second ground floor suite that is handicap accessible and includes a large living area with a gorgeous fireplace, kitchenette and bedroom with a king-sized bed. Located just 2 blocks from downtown restaurants & the Des Moines riverfront. Ample room for large groups or families. Private parking. Free WiFi. Church Retreat 26819 Route J40, Bentonsport 319.592.3203 Bentonsport’s Church Retreat is a rental for a couple’s weekend out, group crafting, birthday parties, family reunions & other gatherings. The main floor includes a fully equipped kitchen, full bath, dining area, living area, Murphy bed, laundry and one semi private bedroom. The open loft sleeps up to 7 and has a shower, sink & toilet. Grill, fire pit, plenty of parking & outdoor games! No animals or smoking. Minimum 2-night stay. Lake Shore Hideout 24418 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua 641.680.1561 lakeshorehideout.com Come enjoy your next adventure in paradise with the best views of Lake Sugema out your front door! Perfect for hunters, fishermen & families coming to enjoy the Villages! We offer all the amenities of your home with a full living & kitchen area, 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, patio/deck, free WiFi & satellite TV. Daily & weekly rentals available! Open year round! Credit cards are accepted. Looking forward to seeing you on your next adventure!!

DID YOU KNOW? The town of Benton’s Port (now known as Bentonsport) printed its own money after the first worldwide economic crisis, Panic of 1857. 21 villagesofvanburen.com L O D G I N G: Bed & Breakfasts Bentonsport Village B&B 21864 Walnut Street, Bentonsport 319.592.3191 bentonsportbb.com Be our guest at the 1847 Hancock House. Step back in time and explore the Des Moines River region once known as the “far west”. Tastefully appointed rooms with period antiques, modern conveniences and a sumptuous breakfast await you. Two rooms with private baths plus an additional room for overflow. One queen, one full and two twin beds. For quiet comforts in a historic river village call or visit us online to make your reservation. Free Wi-Fi. Email: [email protected] Mason House Inn Bed & Breakfast & Caboose Cottage 21982 Hawk Drive, Bentonsport 319.592.3133 masonhouseinn.com This historic Bed & Breakfast has been serving guests since 1846. All nine rooms have private bathrooms. Private caboose cottage rental available. Breakfast is included. Open all year. Ideal for reunions, seminars, church groups, quilt guilds, book club retreats, honeymoons, weekend getaways and murder mystery dinners. Free Wi-Fi. Email: [email protected] C A M P G R O U N D S Lake Sugema Recreation Area South of Keosauqua 319.293.3532 vbcountyconservation.com Visit website for online reservations. 574 acres, no-wake, with largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie and channel catfish. Approx. 3,600 acres for public hunting, hiking, bird watching and other activities. Campground facilities include 22 asphalt pads, 12 with full service, 10 modern. Primitive tent camping is also available. Amenities include shelter house, shower house, playground equipment, dump station, boat ramps, universally accessible fishing piers, fish cleaning station and parking areas with electric outlets. Morris Park 10938 Timber Road, Stockport 319.796.2148 vbcountyconservation.com Visit website for online reservations. Located NE of Stockport on a quiet, 60 a. park. Featuring 7 buildings containing artifacts from the county’s farming past. Visitors may view a glass sided horse-drawn hearse, a Utica huckster wagon, a rare hay stacker and so much more. A one-acre pond is stocked with bluegill, bass and channel catfish. Enjoy the nature trails, picnic and playground area. 15 camping sites, showers, dump station and picnic shelter. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 22 C A M P G R O U N D S

Indian Lake Park Campgrounds Come enjoy our beautiful 28163 Willow Avenue, Farmington 177-acre nature retreat 319.878.3706 with a 44-acre no-wake farmingtoniowa.com lake for fishing, boating, and swimming. Hike a 2.2 mile trail surrounding the lake or take a stroll through Bird Watch Walk. We offer primitive tent camping for $8 and RV camping with full-hook ups for $18, water/electric for $15, and electric only for $13. We also offer public shower house/bathrooms, stone lodge, open shelters and playground equipment. River Valley Lodge, Campground & Horse Camp 29932 Hawk Drive, Farmington 319.878.3888 / 319.878.4208 rivervalleyhorsecamp.com 2020 Rates: $34 water/electric includes 12’x12’ stall (additional stalls $10) Weekday rates: $28/$8. Primitive camping: $15. Bunkhouse sleeps 6: $100; Cabins sleep 2-6: $50-$100; Cowboy Suites sleep 2-4: $150. Western themed campground within 1 mile of Farmington on paved road. A/C & heated shower house, laundry, shelterhouses, playground, Wi-Fi, bunkhouse & cabins. Fifty campsites with water/electricity. Fishing pond on site. Primitive camping along Des Moines River. Equestrian facilities include 94 covered stalls, arenas, round pens, on-site extreme course & trail to adjacent Shimek State Forest. Lodge rental for group parties, weddings, reunions, etc. Pet friendly. Waubonsie Park 601 W. North Street, Cantril 319.397.2193 cantrilia.com The 23 acre Waubonsie Trail Park on the northwest edge of Cantril features 12 campsites (some with 50 amp service), a rustic camping cabin (sleeps 4) and ADA Cabin (sleeps 6). Handicapped accessible showers, sewer dump station, 2 picnic shelters, large playground, 1+ mile of graveled hiking trails, three covered bridges, a pond, 9-hole Disc Golf Course, horseshoe pits, bird watching station, tall grass prairie area and a wildflower section. Storm Shelter. Free Wi-Fi. Most credit cards accepted. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park 22895 Lacey Trail, Keosauqua 319.293.3502 Reservations: iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com The recently renovated campground area now has 65 sites; 51 electric (13 with full service), 13 non-electric and 1 youth group site. Come enjoy one of Iowa’s largest parks with 1,653 acres! Two picnic shelters are available for rent. Thirteen miles of hiking trails. Lacey Lake (30 acres, no wake) has a boat ramp and excellent fishing. The swimming area is always popular during the summer months. Lodge rental is $70/day. Cabin rentals are $50/night. Shelters $25/ day. Beach House Lodge rental is $70/day. 23 villagesofvanburen.com C A M P G R O U N D S Bentonsport Campground & Park 319.293.3589 vbcountyconservation.com Visit website for online reservations. A peaceful setting with 23 modern sites with gravel camp pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and 30-50 amp electricity. Water hydrants throughout the campground. Pit toilet, shower house and shelter with bathrooms open 24 hours. Shimek State Forest 319.878.3811 iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com One of the largest continuous areas of timber in the state with 9,000 acres. Four large ponds, stocked with largemouth bass, catfish and other pan fish. Electric trolling motors are allowed. Public hunting, cross country skiing and snowmobiling trails. Equestrian trails and camping facilities are available at the Lick Creek unit. Picnic tables, cook sites and primitive camping sites are throughout the forest. B U S I N E S S & S E R V I C E S BANQUET & MEETING FACILITIES River Valley Lodge 29932 Hawk Drive, Farmington 319.878.3888 / 319.878.4208 Fully decorated western themed multi-purpose facility featuring prep kitchen, stainless steel serving area, stage, attached open air shelter & grand 75 ft. front porch. Seats up to 200. This unique venue is a wonderful setting for weddings, receptions, reunions, showers, family & holiday gatherings and more! The Stone House - A Village Meeting Place 26985 Route J40, Bentonsport 319.592.3222 The historic 1850 building is now a modern, handicap accessible all-season facility. Seats up to 80. Full kitchen and restrooms. Available for year-round rental. Roberts Memorial Center 20497 Hwy 1 North, Keosauqua 319.293.3794 A multi-purpose center featuring a large stage, sound system, full kitchen, tables and chairs to seat up to 300, and ample parking. A perfect venue for weddings, receptions, reunions, community dinners, and any other special events. REAL ESTATE Mossy Oak Properties Boley Real Estate 707 First Street, Keosauqua 319.293.2575 boleyrealestate.com For over 30 years we have been at the center of real estate in Southern Iowa. Call us for your recreational or residential real estate needs! 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 24 B U S I N E S S & S E R V I C E S HEALTHCARE Roth Dental Care 205 Franklin Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3844 rothdentalcare.com From preventative to emergency care & everything in-between, we are ready to bring a smile to your face! Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm. Keosauqua office closed Wed; Fairfield on Tues. Van Buren County Hospital & Clinics 304 Franklin Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3171 / 800.873.8224 vbch.org Affiliated with University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics. Providing around the clock emergency care, lab and radiology services. Affordable health care through four health clinics. HOUSE OF WORSHIP Milton Christian Church 301 E Oak Street, Milton 641.656.4647 We welcome all visitors to Van Buren County! Join us for worship on Sunday at 10:30am. Enjoy uplifting music, scripture & more. SERVICE STATIONS Osborne Oil 303 Main Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3155 osborneoilco.com Osborne Oil is a multi-service business from general vehicle maintenance to tires and towing. We have a great selection of used cars and trucks close to home. Offering 24/7 pay at the pump for your convenience with BP quality gas and diesel fuel. Now offering U-Haul rentals. We do it all! Open 7am-6pm, Monday-Saturday. Closed Sunday. CONVENIENCE STORES Jet Stop 121 Hwy 1, Birmingham 319.498.4663 202 Washington St., Bonaparte 319.592.3281 109 E Hwy 2, Milton 641.656.4215 jetstops.com Convenience stores with gas, pop, food, beer, ice, etc. Open 365 days a year. ATM at all locations. Casey’s General Store This C-store offers pizza, donuts 201 S 4th Street, Farmington & sandwiches. We carry groceries, automotive products, health & beauty 319.878.3318 aids, etc. as well as biodiesel. 319.878.4110 (Pizza) Open 6am-11pm daily. ATM available. caseys.com Circle B Market Complete convenience store 111 E Main Street, Keosauqua with gas, subs, fresh deli wraps, 319.293.3079 sandwiches, Piccadilly Pizza, pop, beer, ice, Iowa Lottery & large liquor & wine selection. Open Mon-Sat, 5am-9pm; Sunday, 6am-9pm. ATM available.

25 villagesofvanburen.com B U S I N E S S & S E R V I C E S WELLNESS SERVICES Body Restoration by Judi 602 8th Street, Suite #205, Bonaparte 319.217.6852 Located in the Bonaparte School building, offering various techniques to relieve stress, lower blood- pressure and bring about a sense of well-being in a cozy setting. Massage can promote post-surgery healing, relieve migraines, fibromyalgia & PTSD through Swedish, deep tissue & trigger point therapy. Spa treatments include wraps, exfoliations, pedi-sage, hot stone and 30, 60, 90 or 120 minute massages. Gift certificates available. Call for an appointment. COMMUNITY SERVICES DVIP (Domestic Violence Intervention Program) 800.373.1043 (24 Hour Hotline) dvipiowa.org Providing support for victim/survivors of domestic abuse, dating violence, stalking & human trafficking. Services include safety planning, medical & legal advocacy & resource assistance. All services are free & confidential to anyone in need. Open hours are available locally Fridays 8am-Noon at Keosauqua City Hall. HOME & CONSTRUCTION

Douds Lumber and Home Center 14792 Washington Street, Douds 641.936.7115 doudslumber.com A full-service supplier of lumber, building materials, hardware & tools, as well as fencing supplies, hydraulic hoses, Key clothing & more! We’ll work with you on every phase of your project from design to completion. Located south of the Van Buren County, on the Leando side of the river. Open Mon-Fri, 7am-5pm; Sat, 7am-Noon. After hours design consultations available by appointment. Keosauqua Lumber Co. 21561 205th Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3366 We have everything you need to complete your building or project. Supplying building materials, cabinets, siding, windows, doors, sheds, fencing & more! Find us North of Keosauqua off Hwy 1 near the fairgrounds. Open Mon-Sat, 8am-5pm. FINANCIAL & INSURANCE SERVICES First Iowa State Bank 714 1st Street, Keosauqua 319.293.3794 (Main Office) 1stiowa.bank Employee-owned bank with offices in Keosauqua, Cantril & Bloomfield. ATM services at Keosauqua & Bloomfield branches as well as Keosauqua’s Circle B Market & Bloomfield’s Route 63 Quik Stop. MEMBER FDIC. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 26 B U S I N E S S & S E R V I C E S FINANCIAL & INSURANCE SERVICES Farm Bureau Financial Services 713 First Street, Keosauqua 319.293.7101 (Main Office) P. Alexander Kessel, MSFS, AEP, ChFC, CLU, CASL Associate Manager, Financial Advisor, Agent Offices located at: 103 S 2nd Street, Farmington, 319.878.3737 106 N 28th Street, Fairfield, 641.472.2128 424 Main Street, Donnellson, 319.835.5126 State Central Bank 101 S Second Street, Farmington 319.878.3320 statecentralbank.com You can count on State Central Bank to be safe, strong and secure while helping you organize your finances. We offer deposit and savings products, a full array of loan options and trust services. You will appreciate the convenience of our online banking and Bill Pay, credit cards and debit cards. State Central Bank is committed to the communities we proudly serve. A bank where families have enjoyed expert financial services for generations. MEMBER FDIC. Community Insurance Agency Our goal is to serve our 718 First Street, Keosauqua community with excellent 319.293.3752 service & competitive rates. Contact us for a free quote. Libertyville Savings Bank We are a family owned & operated 20390 Hwy 1, Keosauqua bank that believes in working hard, 319.293.3151 playing hard, and knowing our www.lsbia.bank customers on a personal level. UTILITY PROVIDERS Van Buren Telephone Co. 617 First Street, Keosauqua 319-293-3187 vbtelco.com Independent telecommunications service provider serving the Villages since 1923. Offering an array of services including local service, features such as caller ID, internet service, broadband internet, and long-distance services. “Where Technology Meets Tradition.” Keosauqua Light & Power 319.293.3406 Serving the electrical needs of Keosauqua since 1950. We take care of our customers with top-notch service 24/7, 365 days a year! Northeast Power We serve 8 member-distribution 573.769.2107 co-ops in SE Iowa and NE Missouri, northeast-power.coop including Southern Iowa Electric Co-op in Bloomfield and Access Energy in Mt. Pleasant. Northeast Power is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative. Southern Iowa Electric Cooperative We are a member- 641.664.2277 owned distribution sie.coop cooperative serving approximately 4,800 homes, farms, businesses, and industry in southern Iowa. SIE Co-op is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative. 27 villagesofvanburen.com S P E C I A L E V E N T S MAY 22 VILLAGES FOLK SCHOOL MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND BBQ MAY 23-24 BENTONSPORT FLEA MARKET & CRAFT SHOW JUNE 6 6TH ANNUAL SHARON NORTON MEMORIAL GOSPEL SING JUNE 5-7 BIRMINGHAM HOMECOMING JUNE 12-14 FARMINGTON STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL JUNE 20 FLY VAN BUREN JUNE 20 DOUDS FIELD DAY JUNE 27 BONAPARTE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION JULY 4 KEOSAUQUA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION JULY 20-27 VAN BUREN COUNTY FAIR AUGUST 8 J40 FARM CRAWL AUGUST 15-16 BIKE VAN BUREN XXXIV SEPTEMBER 4-6 STOCKPORT LIONS BBQ DAYS SEPTEMBER 12 BENTONSPORT HERITAGE DAY SEPTEMBER 18-20 END OF SUMMER STATELINE MOTORCYCLE RALLY OCTOBER 9-11 SCENIC DRIVE FESTIVAL NOVEMBER 6 VILLAGES FOLK SCHOOL MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND BBQ NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 31 CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGES DECEMBER 4-6 FESTIVAL OF TREES DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE GOSPEL CELEBRATION FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF ALL EVENTS VISIT VILLAGESOFVANBUREN.COM/CALENDAR 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 28 B U S I N E S S I N D E X

A-Frame Lacey Trail...... 19 Hel-Mart...... 8 River Valley Lodge...... 24 Addie May Fudge...... 2 Hotel Manning...... 19 River Valley Campground...23 Alexander's Cottage...... 21 Indian Artifact Museum.....12 River Valley Cabins...... 20 Aunty Green Museum...... 10 Indian Lake Park Cabins.....19 Riverbend Pizza...... 7 Bentonsport Village B&B.....22 Indian Lake Campground.23 Riverside Cabins...... 19 Bentonsport Campground..24 Iron & Lace...... 3 Riverview Country Club....8 Bentonsport Nat’l Hist. Dist.14 J&A Printing...... 1 Roberts Memorial Center..24 Bentonsport Presbyterian...... 10 Jet Stop...... 25 Roth Dental Care...... 25 Bent River Extended Stay.....21 Keosauqua, City of...... 13 Selma Log Cabin...... 12 Birmingham, City of...... 14 Keosauqua Chamber...... 5 Selma/Iowaville, Village.....17 Bloom and Bark...... 7 Keosauqua Light & Power.27 She Shed, The...... 3 Body Restoration by Judi....26 Keosauqua Lumber...... 26 Shimek State Forest...... 24 Bonaparte, City of...... 14 Lacey-Keosauqua St. Park...21 Simply Irresistible...... 4 Bonaparte Leather...... 4 Lake Shore Hideout...... 21 Southern Iowa Electric...... 27 Bonaparte Pottery...... 10 Lake Sugema...... 22 State Central Bank...... 27 Bonaparte Retreat...... 5 Lebanon, Village of...... 18 Stockport, City of...... 17 Bridge Café...... 6 Libertyville Savings Bank...27 Sunrise Bakery...... 4 Cantril, City of...... 14 Little Cedar Lodge...... 20 T&C Tavern...... 7 Carriage House Quilts...... 3 Lunchbox Café...... 5 The Stone House...... 24

Casey's General Store...... 25 Mason House Inn B&B.....22 Trails...... 9 Cedar Valley Winery...... 8 Milton, City of...... 17 Troublesome Creek...... 5 Church Retreat...... 21 Milton Christian Church....25 Twombly Museum...... 11 Circle B Market...... 25 Milton Creamery...... 2 Valley School No. 3...... 11 Circuit 180...... 8 Milton Heritage House.....12 Van Buren Co. Courthouse.12 Community Ins. Agency...... 27 Misty's Malt Shop...... 6 Van Buren Co. Hospital.....25 Crane Winery...... 7 Mormon Trail...... 13 Van Buren Telephone Co...27 Douds Depot...... 10 Morris Park...... 12, 22 Vernon, Village of...... 18 Douds/Leando, Village of.....17 Mossy Oak Properties...... 24 Vets Club...... 7 Douds Lumber...... 26 Mt. Moriah Church...... 10 Villages Folk School...... 9 Dutchman's Store...... 2 Mt. Sterling, Village of...... 18 Wasko Hardware...... 5 DVIP...... 26 Northeast Power...... 27 Waterfront Place...... 4 Eldon Depot...... 11 Oak Grove Community....10 Waubonsie Park Cabins...... 20 Farm Bureau Financial...... 27 Odd Fellas Workshop...... 3 Waubonsie Campground...23 Farmington, City of...... 17 Osborne Oil...... 25 Wickfield Sales Pavilion...... 13 First Iowa State Bank...... 26 Pearson House Museum....12 Yoder's Indian Creek...... 2 First Street Grille...... 6 Peavine Line Museum...... 12 Flower House...... 4 Pine Ridge Retreat...... 20 Geocaching...... 18 Pioneer Hist. Museum...... 11 Great Day Cafe...... 6 Pittsburg, Village of...... 18 Greef General Store...... 3 Red Fox Lodging Co...... 20 Rent-A-Horse...... 8

29 villagesofvanburen.com O U R N E I G H B O R S Eldon - Pop. 920 641.652.3352 americangothichouse.org 25 min. West of Keosauqua on Hwy 16. Home to the iconic American Gothic House, Grant Wood’s famous painting & Eldon Depot Museum (original Rock Island Depot). Bloomfield - Pop. 2,694 641.664.1104 visitdaviscounty.com 30 min. West of Keosauqua on the Historic Hills Scenic Byway (Route J40). Abundant shopping opportunities and historic courthouse. Drakesville, just North of Bloomfield, is rich with Amish tradition and businesses. Ottumwa - Pop. 25,023 641.684.4303 ottumwaiowa.com 50 min. NW of Keosauqua. You’ll find many shopping opportunities, large water park, several hotels and restaurants. The Pro Balloon Races are held annually in August. Fairfield - Pop. 9,464 641.472.2828 travelfairfield.com 25 min. North of Keosauqua on Hwy 1. A unique community with diverse culture and the most eclectic dining scene in SE Iowa. Wide variety of festivals and shopping opportunities. Mt. Pleasant - Pop. 8,668 319.385.3101 mountpleasantiowa.org 45 min. East of Keosauqua. Home to Iowa Wesleyan University, great shopping opportunities. Midwest Old Threshers Reunion, which runs for 5 days ending on Labor Day, draws thousands of visitors every year. Burlington - Pop. 25,663 319.752.6365 growburlington.com 60 min. East of Keosauqua. Located on the Mississippi with charming downtown shopping, casino, water park and home to Ripley’s Believe It or Not, “Crookedest Street in the World”... Snake Alley. Ft. Madison - Pop. 11,051 800.210.TOUR fortmadison.com 45 min. East of Keosauqua on Hwy 2. Home to the first US military fort on the upper Mississippi River, which has been re-constructed and open to the public. Also home to the world’s longest swing-span double decker bridge which is open to traffic. Keokuk - Pop. 10,780 319.524.5599 keokukiowatourism.org 50 min. SE of Keosauqua. Keokuk is home to the best Geode hunting in Iowa! Appreciation Days is held annually on the 3rd weekend in January. 319.293.7111 / 800.868.7822 30 809 1st Street, PO Box 9 Keosauqua, IA 52565

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