DCDC is the economic development entity that serves Decatur County, Iowa. Our role is to inspire economic growth among the businesses and community members that thrive here. We aim to encourage economic development to support five specific purposes.
Our list of communities:
Davis City
About
Established: 1855
Population: 178
Davis City is a small farming community, located in between Leon and Lamoni on Hwy 69. Slip Bluff Park is just a few miles away as is Nine Eagles State Park. This picture describes the Union Church built in 1877 by John Clark, the Church has four face clocks that still keep time.The Church has been undergoing restoration processes and may be seen by calling 641-442-8222 to schedule an appointment.
Decatur City
About
Established: 1875
Population: 175
Decatur City is located on Interstate 35 in the central part of the county. This rural, farming community is a peaceful community to raise a family. Teague Ranch offers 3,000 acres of whitetail hunting at it’s finest located just off interstate 35. Call 641-446-3742 or visit www.teagueranch.com. Every Thursday night you may enjoy a music fest at the Decatur City Barnum Community Center.
Garden Grove
About
Established: 1846
Population: 173
Garden Grove is a small farming community located in the northeast part of the county, founded in 1846 by a group of Mormons led by Brigham Young. Just west of Garden Grove there is a granite monument marking the cemetery and National Park Service panels describe the pioneer settlement along the Mormon Trail. Pictured at right is the JJ McClung house, built in 1908. Original stenciling on the walls, original light fixtures, along with period furniture adorn this beautifully kept Victorian home. Tour the four floors of this mansion or plan your next meeting here by calling 641443-2161 for an appointment. Every August this little town comes to life with their annual car show and music fest. 641-443-3765.
Grand River
About
Established: 1881
Population: 192
Grand River, a quaint little farming town nestled in the Grand River Valley and surrounded by rich farmland is located in the northwest corner of the county on County Highway J 20. In May join the community for the Memorial Day service fly over, and August brings the Grand River Rodeo and dance. Visit the city park and see an original country school and an old fireplace hearthstone from a log cabin built in 1859. Shewmaker Park is located just a few miles southeast of Grand River on 160th St. Look for upcoming details on a new venture for this park.
Lamoni
About
Established: 1870
Population: 2,072
Lamoni is a picturesque town in southern Decatur County. If you are traveling on I-35 at exit 4 you will find the Amish based Southern Iowa Welcome Center. As you look west on Hwy 69 a lighted pathway takes visitors into town. Here you will find quaint restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and antique shops. The path at right shows the six miles of recreational trail leading through town. Graceland University brings superb cultural and athletic events, guest lectures, and musical performances to the area. Lamoni is home to Lamoni Community School District.
Leon
About
Established: 1858
Population: 1,179
Leon is the county seat with the historic courthouse located in the center of the downtown square. Little River Recreation Area is on the west edge of town. The Leon Golf and Country Club is a 9 hole golf course near the lake. Excellent hunting surrounds the community on both public hunting grounds and private hunting preserves. Leon is also home to the Central Decatur Community School District and the Decatur County Hospital. Area shopping includes the AgriVision Equipment, Plaza Furniture, From the Ground, Later Gator Children’s Consignment Boutique, Main Street Brick House, and New-2-U Thrift Store. Hold on to your hats for the annual 4th of July rodeo, dance and fireworks with a parade kicking it all off.
Leroy
About
Established: 1880
Population: 10
Leroy is the smallest of our ten communities, located in the far northwest corner of the county.The historic Presbyterian Church welcomes visitors and area residents to worship and participate in local activities.
Pleasanton
About
Established: 1854
Population: 32
Pleasanton is a small farming community located on the Missouri line. Here you will find the historic City Hall and the bandstand that is the hub of activities in this town. Just north of Pleasanton on J66 you will find Nine Eagles State Park, boating, camping, fishing, and nine miles of equestrian trails adorn this park.
Van Wert
About
Established: 1853
Population: 175
Van Wert is a small farming community with family values and a rich history less than an hour south of Des Moines just off I-35 on the northern edge of Decatur County. Located in the Clarke County School district.
Weldon
About
Established: 1880
Population: 134
Weldon the small rural farming community located on the county line separating Decatur and Clarke Counties. Visitors may tour the restored train depot and caboose with historic artifacts and local history by calling 641-445-5654 for an appointment. Each year hunters look forward to the Weldon squirrel hunt. Located in the Clarke County School district.